Lea is a 3 -4 year old lab who was brought into the shelter by a good Samaritan as a stray. She was extremely thin (only 39 pounds) and mostly hopped on 3 legs, but her sweet smile let us know she was a resilient, happy girl. Although a microchip was detected, her owner never came for her. On closer medical evaluation, we learned she doesn’t use her left back leg much of the time because she is missing the entire left back paw.  She is also missing some toes on her right rear paw. Nevertheless, she has adapted extremely well and doesn’t let her paw situation slow her down one bit. In fact, she bounds around her foster home with her canine foster sister, engages in spirited games of “bitey face”, loves to go on daily brisk walks, and snuggles up for cozy cuddles. Lea often walks on her left back leg if she is on soft surfaces like carpet or grass but knows to use just 3 legs on harder surfaces like pavement. Her mobility isn’t hindered, and she’s free from any pain, according to her vet.  She is also now up to a healthy weight, and her soft coat just gleams.

Lea is a true sweetheart with a gentle soul.  She loves riding in the car, and she enthusiastically greets every dog and person (kids and adults) she meets.  She learns very quickly, knows ‘sit’ and ‘stay’, is housebroken, is well behaved when her foster parents are out, and adores attention (particularly when her foster mom tries to put on her shoes in the morning.  Lea did request that her adopter’s home provide Cheerios and rice cakes for snacks as those are her favorite.

Special Needs:
While Lea’s unique foot pad situation may benefit from a prosthesis, she has lived her whole young life this way and manages fine without one.  She’s proven herself to be remarkably resilient and adaptable. Her new playmates should match her gentle nature, preferring medium, dainty play over rough and tumble activities. With her perfect house manners and natural knack for companionship, Lea is sure to bring warmth and joy to any home lucky enough to have her.