An amazing animal activist group has spoken about how they have helped an 11-year-old Sulcata tortoise get a new lease of life by fitting him with a tiny wheelchair.
The tortoise, named 'George Bailey' was born with a metabolic bone disease that meant that his back legs were no longer functioning properly, a problem that has only become worse as his shell gets heavier as he grows.
His owner, Jaime Loebener, has saved him from an exotic pet show, she said:
"He uses his front legs to pull his way around slowly and clumsily. The bigger he's gotten, the more difficult this has been for him. He currently weighs close to 70 lbs., but may grow to weigh over 200 lbs."
It was then she sought help from Walkin' Pets by HandicappedPets.com who specialise in helping disabled animals. Their experts built George a wheelchair with a base support and a harness that can be adjusted as he grows. This means that the wheels take the weight of George's lower-half, which will allow him to have a more normal life as he grows. Sulcata tortoises live for over 100 years, so he has a long time left!
Walkin' Pets said:
"George Bailey may not be the fastest animal on wheels, but steady wins the race. "[He] isn't going to be going anywhere too quickly, he needed to be comfortable and Sulcata Tortoises have a convex contour on the underside of their shell that the Walkin' Pets engineer was able to support with additional cushioning on top of the scooter base."
George is delighted with his new wheelchair and seems to not be in any way held back by his disability.
Walkin' Pets have helped hundreds of animals with disabilities, saying on their website:
"There was a day when injured or special needs pets were 'no good anymore'. When an animal was hurt, became lame or incontinent, or was for any reason no longer wanted, they were put down. Not Anymore. We are becoming more aware of the sacredness of all life. We are beginning to understand the power of the loving bond that is created when one living thing cares for another. Our pets have become family members and deserve to be loved, respected, and cherished. The purpose and mission of Walkin' Pets is to help people learn that there are alternatives to euthanasia. An elderly, disabled, or injured pet can often live a high quality life for many years if they get the little help that they need, such as diapers, a rear-support leash, or a wheelchair."
[h/t: My Modern Met]
COMMENTS