A disabled Weimaraner is searching for his perfect home with someone willing to take a chance and adopt this unique puppy.
Joey the Weimaraner is hoping to find a forever family who will cherish him after being discovered as a stray. He was initially picked up by Animal Control and taken to a local shelter in California, before Kristina de la Cuesta of the Northern California Weimaraner Rescue stepped in to help.
Indeed, Cuesta often gets notified when a Weimaraner winds up in nearby shelters, and she also keeps track of the websites. As soon as she saw Joey, she knew he was special, telling Newsweek that he’s “a loving soul” who needs someone to take a chance on a pup with a difference.
Joey, thought to be around nine months old, was born with a congenital birth defect on his front leg, known as ectrodactyly (commonly referred to as lobster claw). It doesn’t seem to cause him any pain or difficulty, and Joey is more than happy to run, chase and even gets the zoomies from time to time.
“Joey’s birth defect results in a cleft on the paw resulting from missing central digits (metacarpal and carpal bones),” Cuesta said.
“We had him evaluated by two surgeons and both said he does not seem in pain and that if he is using the leg/paw, then we should leave him. It’s also recommended that he not be neutered until he reaches full growth. When he walks, he tends to alternate between using it and not, but he will bear weight. When he runs though, he uses it freely.”
Aside from his birth defect, Joey is just like any other puppy. Joey is currently in a foster home awaiting an adopter, as Cuesta told Newsweek that his confidence is growing and he “has no idea he has a disability.” He loves to play and will gladly splash in the water at any opportunity, before ending the day snoozing on a lap.
The ideal home for Joey is with someone who will let him explore and be adventurous, while also understanding his limitations.
Cuesta said: “Joey will just need an adopter who can give him all the safe activity he needs for his paw. He may never need to have it addressed, but there is always a chance that he could stop using it at some point. Ideally, a beach or large soft grassy play area with playmates would be amazing.
“Joey takes each day with tremendous joy. He is a major cuddler, and despite being about just under 50 pounds, he will happily be a lap dog all evening. We want someone that can provide all the stimulation he needs but safely. Not to keep him in bubble wrap, but let him be a Weimaraner in a modified way.”
Northern California Weimaraner Rescue is also in contact with Bionic Pets to learn more about Joey’s options when he eventually stops growing. He may also need a durable sock to provide his paw with extra traction and protection. Ultimately, it’s important for a potential adopter to ensure Joey remains fit and active at any age.
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