The North Shore Animal League in Port Washington, NY on Long Island is the world’s largest no-kill pet adoption center and is home to many special needs pets. Donna Imhof works as a veterinary technician at North Shore, and is mom to four chihuahuas who were born with a congenital defect that left them without front legs. Imhof adopted Carmen, Pablo, Venus and aptly-named Scooter in July, 2007 after they were recovered from a puppy mill in Virginia.
The handicapped chihuahuas get around on special scooters that were custom-built for them in January. Generous donors contributed the $1,000 cost of the scooters. (I think that was the total cost for all the scooters, not the individual cost for each, but the source article is worded vaguely.) Prior to being outfitted with their new scooters the dogs got around by hopping and walking on their hind legs. With their new aluminum-frame scooters they have more mobility and less chance of back and joint problems. They also look so cute.
If you live on Long Island or nearby and are looking for a pet the North Shore Animal League has many dogs and cats that need a good home. If you’re looking for a pet anywhere in the US, the humane society is a good place to start.
Photo credit: BARM/Fame Pictures. 9/15/08
On the move
Down, boy!
Hiya, Sophia!
We spotted Rebecca Romijn out at the park yesterday afternoon with one of her four-legged friends. Whew - we were worried all those calls of "Down, boy!" were for us!
Hot dog!
