Shakey may face more difficulties than most puppies, but his joyful personality continues to shine through.
In June, animal law enforcement officers from the Pennsylvania SPCA discovered the 4-month-old puppy living alongside dozens of other animals on a neglected property. The surroundings were considered unsafe and unhygienic, so Shakey was removed and taken to the organization’s headquarters for medical evaluation.
During his examination, veterinarians noticed that Shakey had little control over his body movements. He experienced frequent tremors and struggled to remain steady whenever he attempted to walk, often stumbling or falling.
Several weeks later, his condition had not disappeared. Shakey still shook, needed physical support and faced an uncertain medical future. However, none of those challenges seemed to diminish his enthusiasm for life.
Despite his disability, Shakey remained playful, inquisitive and affectionate. To him, there was nothing unusual about wanting to explore, interact with people and enjoy the same experiences as any other puppy.
The rescue team believes Shakey will need an exceptionally patient and understanding adopter. Because he can easily injure himself, he must remain in a protected area and cannot be allowed to wander without supervision. He also requires assistance while eating, has not yet been house-trained and may need continuing veterinary treatment, including specialized neurological care.
Caring for Shakey will require commitment, but rescuers are confident that he has plenty of love and companionship to offer in return. They hope to find a family willing to accept his limitations while appreciating his lively and loving nature.
Shakey’s life may never resemble that of a typical puppy, but his rescuers believe that should not prevent him from receiving the safety, kindness and permanent home he deserves.