Hello there! My name is Koa, and I'm a sweet 7-year-old Shepherd Mix with a heart full of love to give. I weigh about 61 lbs and stand roughly 72 cm tall from paws to the top of my head, with a length of about 92 cm from nose to bum. I was found abandoned in Mexico City, and though my skin condition made things tough initially, I'm now in a safe shelter and ready to find my forever home! I'm friendly, playful, and absolutely crave affection, but I do need to be careful not to play too roughly due to my sensitive skin. I get along well with other dogs and don't show any resource guarding. I love exploring the outdoors and sniffing around, but I need to avoid direct sunlight. I can be a bit sensitive to touch, especially if I don't see it coming, as I experienced a lot of pain in the past. However, with gentle affection, I'm a happy girl who loves cuddles! My rescuer believes I'll make an amazing companion for the right person.
Ideal Home
Koa would do best in a home where her adopter is prepared to manage her inflammatory disease and help her live life to the fullest. Due to her sensitivity to sunlight, she needs to be walked in the morning and evening, avoiding the hours between 9 am and 5 pm.
Ongoing Health
Koa has Dermatomyositis, an inherited inflammatory disease affecting her skin, muscles, and blood vessels. This condition is managed rather than cured, and while it's currently well-controlled, it requires ongoing treatment. She needs continued immunomodulator treatment, symptomatic treatment for secondary skin infections, and frequent veterinary monitoring. She also receives a monthly heartworm preventative. Her skin is oily and breaks easily, and she cannot be exposed to direct sunlight. While she no longer experiences physical pain, she can react as if she is in pain if touched without warning due to past trauma to her paws from infections.
Training & Support
Koa is house-trained, though she benefits from frequent potty breaks and positive reinforcement. She has good leash manners and doesn't pull much. Her adopter should be prepared to train her for any prey drive behaviors that may arise around new creatures in Canada.
Application Details:
- Applications start by contacting us through Wags.
- Koa's adoption fee is $616.00 CAD, which includes her airfare if a flight volunteer is found directly to Vancouver.
- Future adopters should be willing to cover ongoing medical costs and are highly recommended to purchase pet insurance.
- It is recommended that prospective adopters consult with their veterinarian about Koa's condition before adoption.
Transporation
Koa is currently located in Mexico City.
