Everyone laughs at this shelter dog for looking like a “hippopotamus,” but he’s trying hard

Wally’s story is a testament to the resilience of the canine spirit. A stray who arrived at the Town of Islip Animal Shelter at an estimated age of 10, Wally carried the marks of a life lived outdoors. Despite a rough past and battle scars like skin disease and vision loss in one eye, Wally held onto a simple desire – to be loved.

Everyone laughs at this shelter dog for looking like a hippopotamus, but he's trying hard

Everyone laughs at this shelter dog for looking like a hippopotamus, but he’s trying hard

A shelter filled with love, but missing a forever home

At the shelter, Wally found a new pack. His fellow shelter mates showered him with the affection he craved. Yet, the shelter staff worried. Wally, with his unique appearance and medical needs, might not be the first dog to catch an adopter’s eye. Danielle Gorle, a veterinary technician at the shelter, described him as a loving goofball who enjoys slobbery greetings and a good cuddle session. He wasn’t picky – just a dog longing for a family to call his own.

However, the dream of a forever home remained elusive. Weeks turned into months, and Wally, once a cheerful dog who reveled in outings, became despondent in his kennel. Shelter life, with its constant noise and activity, began to wear him down. “He seems to be declining,” Gorle observed.

A shelter filled with love, but missing a forever home

A shelter filled with love, but missing a forever home

A quiet haven for a gentle soul

Wally’s ideal family would be one that cherished tranquility. Stairs would be a challenge for his aging body, and young children might be too overwhelming. Ideally, he’d be the only pet, allowing him to bask in the undivided attention he deserves. Most importantly, Wally needs a family who understands his medical needs and is willing to provide the ongoing care he requires.

A quiet haven for a gentle soul

A quiet haven for a gentle soul

A plea for a golden retirement

A plea for a golden retirement

A plea for a golden retirement

Wally’s past might be shrouded in uncertainty, but his future can be bright. All he asks for is a warm bed, gentle strokes, and a family to love. He’s a dog who has known hardship but continues to offer his heart unconditionally. Won’t you give Wally the golden retirement he deserves? Consider opening your home and heart to this senior dog, and together embark on a journey filled with love, loyalty, and companionship.

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