Special Needs Dogs

The Special Needs designation includes a range of physical disabilities, chronic medical conditions, or behavioral issues that require ongoing vigilance or special care to manage. The classification can apply to animals with obvious physical differences such as missing, deformed, or paralyzed limbs. It can also apply to those with functional limitations, such as animals who are blind or deaf. Dogs with chronic medical conditions such as diabetes, persistent allergies, or cancer are often considered Special Needs as well. Still others may have social or behavioral limitations, including severe separation anxiety or extreme situational fears. Previously abused animals may fall into this category.