Watch the disabled Goldendoodle who is living his best life
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A disabled Goldendoodle named Josh was diagnosed with Cerebellar hypoplasia – a neurological condition in which the cerebellum is smaller than usual or not completely developed which caused part of Josh’s brain to be underdeveloped.
His owner, Kim Elliott, from Arizona, USA, adopted him from a local rescue center even though he was disabled.
39-year-old Kim and her husband, Andrew Hangartner didn’t give up on him and now Josh is living his best life with them.
Josh uses a wheelchair and goes on hikes, his favourite beaches, and camping.
Kim said: “I had seen that a nearby rescue center needed a foster home for a Goldendoodle and immediately got in touch.point 346 |
I had tonnes of fostering experience but none with special needs, so I knew Josh would be a new challenge.point 87 | ”point 90 | 1
“I didn’t even care that he had a disability though; I just felt it in my heart that this opportunity was meant for us. But I was scared and overwhelmed as I had no clue how to care for him, but I just went for it anyway and I’m so glad I did.”
Josh also has an Instagram account where his owners post pictures and videos of Josh’s day-to-day life. He goes camping, hiking, to the beach, on road trips, lakes, and the snow. There’s nothing that he hasn’t experienced.
Josh is healthy and he never shows signs of frustration. He is a very happy pup and loves all people, dogs, cats, kids, and birds.
But it was not easy for Kim and Andrew to have a disabled pet. It was very difficult for the couple but they never gave up on him.
Kim said: “Having a pet with a disability can be difficult for many reasons: I would say our main challenges are providing constant enrichment for him – exercise and stimulation to keep him moving and staying strong.”
“He has a tendency to be inactive if we aren’t actively assisting him and as his case is quite severe, he needs assistance from us to eat, drink, and walk.”
“The most important this that Josh has taught me is to be grateful for everything that I have and to celebrate my life despite any challenges that I face.”
“We wouldn’t change him for the world.”