Adopting a paralyzed pet isn’t for everyone—but it can be incredibly rewarding. Sadly, many disabled animals are abandoned, like Lunita, a sweet, wheelchair-bound dog found alone on the streets of Salta, Argentina in May 2014.
Left with only a note explaining her condition, no food or water, and strapped to a broken wheelchair, Lunita was rescued by LUBA Salta. Volunteers placed her in a shelter, then a foster home, hoping to find her a permanent family.
Eventually, a U.S. family adopted her, but they were unprepared for her special needs. Lunita developed a severe staph infection from a mite-infested bed and suffered from scabies, urinary tract infections, and hair loss. Despite the pain, she was eventually rehomed to a loving family who helped her recover.
Lunita went on to enjoy life—playing in the snow, traveling, making friends, and even celebrating her 11th birthday with a special cake. Sadly, soon after, she fell gravely ill. As her condition worsened and breathing became difficult, her family made the heartbreaking decision to let her go.
Lunita passed peacefully, surrounded by love. “She changed my life forever,” her adoptive mom wrote. “I loved her so much.”