SPECIAL NEEDS……Meet Gemma …a precious Shih Tzu puppy born March 27, 2026.

Gemma was born without a tail and based on observations, X-rays and ultrasound, she has abnormalities with the sacral and coccygeal vertebrae, nerve function impacting her hind limbs (you can see her gait is not normal) and bowel/bladder control.

Gemma can live a full life with the needed ongoing supportive care, that includes:

● Manual bowel expression/manipulation to assist with regular evacuation of feces and reduce the risk of constipation, impaction, and skin irritation.

● Bladder expression or urinary management as needed to promote complete bladder emptying and decrease the risk of urinary retention and urinary tract infections.

● Frequent cleaning and hygiene care to prevent urine scald, fecal contamination, and skin infections.

● Monitoring for urinary tract infections, constipation, and other complications associated with chronic incontinence.

● Routine veterinary examinations to assess neurologic function, comfort, and overall quality of life.

If you have experience with dogs with special needs similar to Gemma's issues, we would love to hear from you !