How could anyone forget the story of this spirited almost eight-month-old Boston Terrier? Chuck radiates resilience and joy despite his unique challenges. Born with Dandy-Walker Syndrome, he’s shown an incredible zest for life. With his playful antics and charming mismatched eyes, Chuck steals hearts wherever he goes.
We had hoped that Chuck had found his forever home, but unfortunately, it turned out not to be the best fit. His playful Boston Terrier style, including the characteristic “shark-face” – familiar to Boston Terrier people and marked by playful nips and growls – was misunderstood by a resident dog who saw it not as play but as a challenge. And Chuck, despite his physical limitations, would engage.
The family, who had the best intentions and made a long journey to bring Chuck home, quickly realized that the situation wasn’t working out. Although difficult and upsetting, the decision was made that it would be in the best interest of all to return Chuck to BTRC’s care.
Now back with BTRC, Chuck is getting along very well with the resident female Boston Terrier in his foster home. Stay tuned for more updates as we continue to help Chuck on his journey to finding his perfect forever home.
National Specially-Abled Pets Day shines a spotlight on pets with disabilities. It’s a day to share stories of these brave and deserving companions and to encourage people to consider adopting a special needs pet. Who better to represent than our very own BTRC foster Chuck (or “Chuckaroni” as his humans like to call him)?
Images from Chuck’s recent MRI revealed that he has Dandy-Walker Syndrome (DWS). The back of his brain, or cerebellum, which controls movement, did not develop properly. The good news is that Chuck’s condition is not progressive, which means it won’t get worse over time.
As you can see from the video, Chuck is clever and determined to reach milestones. He understands the command “sit” and does his best to make his way to the back door on his own when he needs to pee or poo. This unstoppable pup loves to chase a ball, play with his canine foster siblings, and engage in a friendly game of tug with his favourite toy. He’s affectionate, cuddly and loves to meet new friends.
Chuck’s foster says, “Every single day I am amazed at Chuck’s resilience and his desire to just be a dog. He struggles with things we might take for granted like balancing to eat, walking on a leash or using the stairs, but I am in awe of his fortitude and never-give-up attitude. Chuck is worth every minute, every ounce of energy and every dollar that is required for his care because he is a true inspiration and testament to what dog rescue is about. He makes me smile every day.”
Chuck’s expenses have totalled approximately $4,000 to date. While there is no miracle pill or medical treatment to cure DWS, complementary therapies such as hydrotherapy and acupuncture, and different mobility aids can all have a positive impact. When six-week-old Chuck found a home with BTRC, he also became part of this incredible extended family of caring Boston Terrier lovers. Your compassion and support will help provide Chuck with every opportunity for his happiest and healthiest life.
Chuck was surrendered to BTRC because of an inability to hold himself upright or walk properly. As several congenital birth defects could be the cause of Chuck’s lack of motor control, he will need to see a neurologist as soon as possible to confirm a diagnosis and what his future may hold.
Despite his condition, Chuck is a friendly boy and a big cuddler. He is alert and engaged with everything and everyone around him. He enjoys short play sessions with the Boston in his foster home, a BTRC alum who has been patient and gentle.
Chuck wants to do all the regular puppy things, but his lack of muscle coordination and balance makes getting where he wants to go challenging. He is a chunky little guy and is doing well on a special puppy diet. As he is still a baby, Chuck enjoys curling up with his “snuggle puppy” – a furry stuffed dog with a warming pad and pulsing heartbeat that provides the comfort and company of a littermate.
Chuck is being fostered in the Greater Toronto Area and is not yet ready for adoption.
