We think people who adopt a Tripawd have a heart of gold. Today’s Tripawd Tuesday feature about Zuko proves it!
From the Streets to Finding His Forever Home, Meet Zuko!
You’ll love this inspawrational rescue story of Zuko, a Texas dog who had a ruff start in life but found one really compassionate, dog-savvy forever family!
How old is your Tripawd?
- He just turned 6
When and Why did your Tripawd lose a leg?
- Zuko was found as a street dog in Texas with a badly broken leg that had healed completely incorrectly. They couldn’t fix it, and it was impeding his ability to walk so they amputated. We got him a month after his surgery and he’s been living his best life.
Did you adopt a Tripawd? If so, why? Tell us your pet’s Gotcha Day story.
- I saw his photo on petfinder, and immediately put in an application. After the lengthy interview process, the rescue said they’d bring him over, and if we wanted him we’d have to take him that day. He immediately ran up to us, sprinted up our stairs, snuggled into my chest and that was it. He was meant to be in our family.
How did your Tripawd adapt to life on three?
- He was depressed when we first got him, preferring to sit alone and sleep most of the day, but after a couple of months he was chasing squirrels, begging for snacks and playing with other dogs.
What are your Tripawd’s favorite things to do?
- Now that he’s a bit older, he loves to sit outside and watch the birds, eat fried eggs, chase the occasional squirrel and sleep on his human’s bed.
Is there any special gear that helped or helps your Tripawd?
- He takes some joint medication for preventative purposes but he’s great at walking without any aid. We just take some breaks when he gets tired. We recently got a dog stroller for longer outings although he doesn’t really need it. It’s more of a preventative measure for when he’s older!
What is the biggest lesson you learned from your Tripawd?
- I think patience and respecting boundaries. He needs to take breaks on his walks which sometimes makes them longer than intended. Hes also very aware and protective of his personal space, and we now make sure to leave him alone when hes resting. Even dogs need personal time!
- I think people assume dogs will always be happy to be pet 100% of the time, but we have to remember that dogs have feelings and can get annoyed or have bad days. When Zukos in a bad mood, it’s obvious and we know now to respect him and his feelings.
What is your best advice to someone who is about to go through amputation with their pet, or someone who is thinking of adopting a Tripawd?
- Literally there’s very little downsides. Zuko has a full happy life and needs only a little more care and attention than four legged dogs. He’s my baby and I wouldn’t trade him for anything.
See More Tripawd Tuesday Stories, and contact us to share your own too!
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