Animals with special needs are often dismissed by people. Many think that animals, unlike humans, are incapable of being resilient and bouncing back in the face of adversity, but it seems that we see an example every day that proves this is not the case. When it comes to learning how to live in the moment, there are no greater sources of inspiration than the animals we share the planet with. Whether it is overcoming a disability or an illness, animals do it all with a giant smile on their face and a big open heart.
As long as there are kind people who are willing to help them, there is nothing that an animal with special needs CAN’T do. Just take Tumbles the two-legged puppy for example. When Tumbles was born, he was taken to Friends of the Shelter Dogs (FOSD) in Athens, Ohio, where he would have a fighting chance. Here, they took good care of the two-week-old puppy, bottle feeding him and giving him all of the special attention that he needed.
When a couple saw photos of Tumbles on the FOSD website, they were inspired! They immediately contacted the shelter about plans to build a wheelchair to help this little fella get around.
After creating a workable design, they contacted the Ohio University Innovation Center to help them build it, using their new 3D printers.
With a little help, this feisty fellow was learning how to get around in no time. FOSD Director Angela Marx told Buzzfeed, “Since he is so little and still growing, he needs to learn how to walk properly. Once the wheelchair is properly fitted he will need to go through physical therapy.”
Luckily, a forever family is already lined up for this little guy, as his foster mom has fallen in love with his sweet, determined disposition. Marx adds, “He’s a little sweetheart and doesn’t act as if he has any limitations.”
Without the help of humans, this sweet baby would have had no chance for survival, proving how important animal rescue efforts really are. This puppy, tired from his first day in his new wheelchair is living proof of how a little bit of love can save a life.
All image source: Crystal Richmond/Facebook