Adopting a paralyzed dog or cat might not be for everyone, and that’s okay. It takes a lot of patience, dedication, and love to care for an animal with special needs. But for those who are able to make that commitment, the journey can be incredibly rewarding and full of life-changing moments. It’s heartbreaking to know that many disabled dogs are often left behind, abandoned by owners who either can’t or won’t care for them. One such case was a sweet little dog named Lunita, whose story began on the streets of Salta, Argentina.
In May 2014, Lunita, a medium-sized female dog with a disability, was discovered alone on a sidewalk in the early morning hours. She had been left there with a note that gave her name, her age, and a short explanation. Sadly, the note also made it clear that her previous owner could no longer care for her. There was no food, no water, and no way for Lunita to fend for herself. Even more tragic, she was lying face down on the pavement, her hind legs strapped into an old, broken wheelchair that offered little support or mobility. It was clear she had been neglected and left to survive on her own.
Luckily, a kind employee at a nearby dog grooming salon noticed Lunita and contacted a local rescue organization known as LUBA Salta. Two volunteers from the group rushed over to pick her up. They carefully transported Lunita to a shelter where she could be safe, warm, and start receiving the care she so desperately needed. Not long after, she was moved into a foster home while rescue workers shared her story online, hoping to find someone willing to adopt this special dog and give her the second chance she deserved.
After weeks of searching, a ray of hope came through—an American family reached out and expressed interest in adopting Lunita. This news sparked excitement and launched a fundraising campaign to cover the costs of bringing Lunita to the United States. Her journey across continents gave everyone involved hope for a brighter future.
Unfortunately, things didn’t go as planned. Her new adoptive family, despite their good intentions, did not have the experience or knowledge needed to care for a disabled pet. Without proper care and hygiene, Lunita suffered a serious setback. She was given a bed infested with mites, and as a result, she developed a severe staphylococcal infection. Her health rapidly deteriorated, and her outlook was grim.
But Lunita’s story didn’t end there. Another loving family stepped in and adopted her again, vowing to provide the care she needed. When she arrived at her new home, Lunita’s condition was critical. She had lost all the fur from her waist down due to scabies and urine scalding, and even her tail was bare. Weighing only 35 pounds, she was severely underweight. The most heartbreaking part was the immense pain she experienced. Due to a urinary tract infection, every time someone cleaned her, she would cry out in agony. It took extensive veterinary treatment, consistent medical care, and a great deal of compassion to help her recover—but she did.
As Lunita regained her health, she began to experience the joys of life in ways she never had before. Her new family introduced her to the beauty of snow, took her on travels, let her make new doggy friends, and celebrated her milestones with love. One of the most memorable days in her life came on June 15, 2018, when Lunita turned 11. Her birthday was a celebration full of happiness. Friends, both human and canine, gathered to honor her, and she even enjoyed a special dog-friendly cake. The smile on her face that day was a true testament to how far she had come.
Sadly, not long after that joyous occasion, Lunita’s health began to decline again. She was admitted to the ICU, struggling with respiratory issues that kept worsening. Each time the medical team tried to remove her from oxygen, her tongue would begin to turn blue—a sign that her body was no longer able to sustain itself. After several difficult days, her family made the painful decision to let her go peacefully, surrounded by the people who loved her most.
Lunita passed away with dignity and love. Her adoptive mother shared heartfelt words on Facebook, saying, “I will never forget her and how much she meant to me. She changed my life forever. I loved her so much.” Though Lunita’s life was filled with suffering early on, the final chapter was full of joy, peace, and unconditional love.
Lunita’s story reminds us of the resilience that animals can show, even in the face of overwhelming hardship. She stands as a symbol of perseverance, showing that even the most broken hearts and bodies can experience healing when surrounded by compassion. Her journey offers hope to others who may be struggling or losing faith that things can get better. Because they can.
Let Lunita’s life serve as a gentle lesson: even animals who seem like they require too much can return far more than you give. With the right care, their spirits shine brightly, leaving a mark on everyone they touch. Rest in peace, sweet Lunita. Your courage and spirit will never be forgotten.
Please share Lunita’s story to honor her memory and spread awareness about the beauty of adopting pets with special needs. They deserve love, too.
