Blind and unable to walk, seven-year-old Mica was transported from a First Nations reserve in Bella Coola, BC, to Vancouver by Dhana Metta Rescue Society, where he received critical surgery to repair his hind-end paralysis.
“Mica is doing great after his procedure in March,” says Yuana, the rescue’s founder and director (she asks that her last name not be used). “He is walking well and working on his strength to run again. But he cannot do stairs, so he’s looking for a home that either doesn’t have them or where someone is absolutely willing and committed to helping him up and down.”
He is, she adds, completely “house broken and does not need to have his bladder expressed. Handily enough, he’s vocal around needing to go, and he’ll let you know when it’s time.”
This despite being visually impaired – a condition that will affect the little Dachshund for life. Still, Mica manages exceptionally well. Once familiar with new surroundings (and provided everything is left relatively in place), he navigates with ease. Again, a reminder: stairs are hazardous and should either be non-existent or gated at top and bottom in his forever home.
All-around, Mica is “a cool little guy who, once he gets to love you – and it usually doesn’t take long – is just so great,” Yuana says. “If I were to hazard a guess as to why there’s been no interest in him, it’s likely because he had this surgery and because of his blindness – people might be under the impression that new issues could crop up as a result, or that his ongoing maintenance would be costly. That’s simply not true.”
In fact, Mica has been given a clean bill of health, and, having been neutered, vaccinated, dewormed and micro-chipped, is more than ready to find his forever home. A few more things to keep in mind: though he does get along with most dogs, he can be selective and should not be with any dogs that are rambunctious, for risk of re-injury. Cats are OK, but the same goes for kids: younger children may, for lack of knowing better, not be gentle with Mica or be tempted to lift him roughly and cause injury. As such, a quiet, adult-only home is desired.
“He does have some separation anxiety, so it would be great if he could go to a home where someone is on a regular schedule and wouldn’t leave him alone for long hours,” Yuana adds. “He is very affectionate, though, once he knows you and trusts you, and I know he’ll make the greatest little buddy for someone out there.”
Mica would love to be adopted before Valentine’s Day – but after is fine, too! Read his full online profile on Dhana Metta Rescue Society’s website, DhanaMettaRescueSociety.org, where complete adoption details can also be found.
