A Staffordshire bull terrier puppy with an "uncontrollable wobble" is looking for a special family to spend the winter years of her life with.
Ten-month-old Luna is a "really sweet girl" who was diagnosed with a progressive disease named wobbler syndrome, which causes her to lose balance and coordination.
The "clumsy" rescue dog is "completely unaware of her disability" and loves running around and jumping up for kisses.
She is currently being looked after by a foster carer, but will have to return to the kennels at South East Dog Rescue (SEDR) if she cannot find a permanent home.
Kymm White, founder of SEDR, understands it is a "monumental" ask, but is desperate for Luna to be rehomed at last.
Sign up to our TeamDogs newsletter for your weekly dose of dog news, pictures and stories.
Little Luna was surrendered to SEDR in July 2021, after her previous owner’s relationship broke down.
She went on to have various tests which diagnosed her with wobblers syndrome - this means she often slips on floors and easily bumps into things.
Kymm hoped Luna could have surgery at the Royal Veterinary College, to slow down her progressive condition, but soon realised that it wasn't possible.
"It would involve several months of intensive crate recovery and Luna absolutely detests being in a crate. She will even cause herself severe injury to avoid being in one," Kymm explained.
Without surgery, Luna will have a short life expectancy and will be “very lucky” to hit her third birthday.
Kymm describes Luna as a "sweet-natured, clumsy girl who has heaps of energy and would do just about anything for a treat and a cuddle".
Luna gets very excited when it's time to go for a walk and adores human attention.
“She jumps up and tries to kiss you - which can be overwhelming with her wobbliness,” Kymm said.
Luna is vaccinated, microchipped and spayed, and currently living with a temporary foster carer.
She is looking for a permanent, loving and understanding family that has experience of dogs with progressive conditions.
The Staffy will need a quiet environment with no young children or cats, and a secure garden and soft space to move around in case she does fall over.
Luna would ideally suit someone who can spend a lot of time with her at home, and take her on active walks.
“We know that the type of homes suited to take on a dog like Luna are very few and far between, due to her needs and the emotional commitment,” Kymm said.
"I understand this is monumental, and ask that any potential adopter really considers if they can go through such an emotional roller coaster."
Kymm added that "life is not fair" and said her "heart breaks" for this sweet girl.
The SEDR team are determined to to find Luna a very special home, where her last few years can be full of "love, care and dignity".
Do you know a dog that desperately needs a home? Get in touch with us at yourmirror@trinitymirror.com.
