This pit bull has a condition that makes him walk with a wobble — and he’s looking for a new home
“He’s an extremely playful and social dog who very much enjoys playtime and social time with people and other animals.”
A special-needs pit bull with a “wobbly” walk at MSPCA’s Nevins Farm is looking for a new home. Eight-year-old Blue, who suffers from a neurological condition known as cerebellar cortical degeneration, was surrendered in January to the Methuen shelter. Rob Halpin, an MSPCA spokesman, said Blue’s owner had died and family were unable to take on the unique challenge of caring for him. Blue’s degenerative condition affects his fine motor skills, giving him trouble standing, walking, and jumping on his own. Halpin said the MSPCA tends to see one or two animals a month with the disorder. His balance may be off, but Blue’s heart and spirit are unbroken, the shelter said. “He just needs a big push to get going and a lift to get going,” Halpin said. “He gets about fairly well once he gets going, as long as he’s on a flat, even terrain.”
The shelter is looking for someone with the time and patience to care for Blue’s needs— to help him eat and drink, play with him, and carry him up and down stairs when necessary. A potential adopter must also understand that the pit bull’s condition, which has no cure, will worsen over time.
“[Blue needs someone] to get him up when it’s time to go out for a walk or use the bathroom and someone who wants to play with him,” Halpin said. “He’s an extremely playful and social dog who very much enjoys playtime and social time with people and other animals.”
Walks with Blue will be slower than the typical dog owner might expect, but Halpin said there’s a light in Blue’s eyes while he’s outdoors that makes the extra effort worthwhile.
Blue is currently being fostered by Abby Antonuccio, an employee at MSPCA’s Nevins Farm.
“Despite his condition, Blue is so happy. He loves people and everyone that meets him adores him — his determination and love of life is inspiring,” Antonuccio said in a press release.
Interested adopters are encouraged to email [email protected].
