Every time you look into an animal’s eyes, you can see a story in them. Every animal that comes to us has been through something – whether it is something minor or extreme, each has a tale. If only they could tell it.

Many of our precious animals have hurdles to face, and the Animal League wants all of our wonderful feline and canine friends to have the special homes they long for and deserve. Some of them have come a long way, some have elaborate pasts, and all have a meaningful life ahead of them. It is our special-needs animals, however, that need a little extra help finding happiness...

North Shore Animal League America is undoubtedly determined to end pet homelessness – and will work tirelessly to achieve that. We know that we are not perfect. We do not ask you to be; and we hope that you do not require these dear animals to be perfect either; for pets with special needs are special, indeed.

Marty

Marty is a young, purebred Golden Retriever. This sweet and gentle boy was rescued from a backyard breeding operation when he was only two months old. Backyard breeders breed animals for profit. Often, as in Marty’s case, the breeding parents are inbred, over-bred, not given proper medical attention and on insufficient diets, commonly resulting in sickly and even deformed offspring.

Just a puppy, Marty started exhibiting questionable behaviors such as walking in circles, stumbling and even bumping into walls. Marty has a mild neurological disorder (disease of the nervous system) and his symptoms include: lack of balance, staring aimlessly, circling, walking into objects and occasional unresponsiveness. In addition, regardless of how eager Marty is to please, housebreaking has been a challenge for him.

Often, people think with their hearts, and what seems to be the right match, may not always work out. Marty has specific needs, and needs the right adopters to thrive. He needs a gentle, patient owner who understands his challenges fully and can accommodate them. He needs someone to spend a little extra time housebreaking him, and optimally, a quiet and passive household. He needs a close eye on him and to be kept safe from general household hazards such as stairs and sharp objects like table corners.

Marty is an incredibly affectionate and darling dog. Because of his ordeal, he needs a little extra effort and understanding. Had his parents been properly bred and cared for, he most likely would not have this condition. Marty deserves what every pet deserves: a safe and caring home to call his own, love and happiness.

Marty has it in him to be an amazing dog. He just needs someone willing to make the investment knowing the wonderful rewards that will be received in return.

If you are interested in adopting Marty, please contact MeganR@AnimalLeague.org.