Animals with Special Needs

Animal type: Cat

Lady man

Male (Neutered), unknown

Hi, my name is lady man, funny name I know, my vet/foster mom calls me that because I’m some what of an anomaly and my sex isn’t clear. My sister and I were surrendered to the THS at the end of January. Both of us have a very rare, unique condition called “atresia ani” which means our anus was not properly developed. My sister’s condition was far more serious than mine and unfortunately she died. I, on the other hand, am flourishing in my foster home. I am a very active, smart little kitten and I tear through the house exploring and playing with the other cats. I am very brave and stand my ground with the big dog in the house.
So I bet you’re wondering how does a kitten get on with out a bum?! Well, instead of an anus I have a common output hole to pass urine and stool. We aren’t sure yet what the implications of this will be but everyone is hopeful that with a once a day medication to soften my stool I will able to function like any other kitten. I am just learning to use the litter box and I don’t think it will be too long before I’m fully trained.
I have an amazing little personality and love to cuddle. My little motor starts to purr the moment you touch me and I am keen to keep your attention for as long as I can.
Please come visit me at the THS, I am sure you will be won over by my gorgeous looks and great personality!

For more information call 416.392.2273

Animal type: Dog

Smokey
A116894

Male (Neutered), 10 years

Smokey is a 10 year old male/neutered American Staffordshire terrier mix. He came into the THS in 2007 after living with a homeless person who could no longer care for him. When he came into the shelter he was overweight with a serious skin condition. After special care from our veterinarians and staff he was found to be hypothyroid and also to have serious skin allergies. With medication his thyroid is under control and he is at a healthy weight, but he will need medication twice daily for the rest of his life. His allergies are now kept at bay with a strict diet. He was adopted out once his issues had cleared up, but was returned because his owner was not able to deal with his issues and he did not get along with their other dog.

He was then in the shelter for almost a year before getting sick again. Smokey’s allergies were difficult to manage while he was in the shelter, as the stress got to him, and he developed a skin condition called Demodex, which cause him to lose fur and break out in hives. At this point he was taken home by a staff member to care for him in a loving, less stressful environment. We are happy to report that with constant care he is almost all better now. His skin is almost cleared up and his fur is starting to grow back. He still has some issues with other dogs however, and he also has some separation anxiety. He would do well in a home with no other pets, and someone who can be with him most of the time and give him the love he deserves. He loves to go for walks and lie in the sun, and he is a big fan of rawhides. He is very loving, and in the right home could be a great friend and companion.

For more information call 416.392.2273

Animal type: Dog

Claira
A108033

Female (Spayed), 8-10 years

Claira is a beautiful, affectionate, and loyal old girl of around the ages 8 to 10. As can sometimes happen in the German Shepherd breed, Claira has hip dysplasia. Some days her limp is glaringly clear and others she becomes very playful showing little sign of her problem. She is afraid of stairs and should never use them. She is intelligent as you will soon learn. She recognizes the commands “Sit” and “Stay”. At home she never barks and is a quiet and obedient companion. Claira is a dog who loves and needs the company of her guardians. As she is territorial with her space outdoors, Claira does well in dog parks only when there are many dogs in the area. She does not get along very well with other dogs in one-on-one situations. Soon enough you will be able to predict her warning signs but a muzzle is recommended when walking Claira out on the sidewalk (crowded areas should be avoided). From time to time, Claira poops indoors, so a home with a backyard is highly preferable so she can easily run outside if she needs. It would also be preferable that her owner have air-conditioning as she does shed, and thus it would be good to brush her regularly. Claira has been unlucky in the past and she deserves to find a good home to accommodate her needs as she gets older.

Claira is in a foster home now, but is still available for adoption.

For more information call 416.392.2273