Tamana - Paralyzed Spitz Mix Cleveland Heights, OH

Tamana was originally found abandoned in Iran - yes, Iran! - with a broken back and bullet in her abdomen in the Fall of 2015. She was taken in by the good folks at MRT rescue in Tehran. We learned about Tamana in January 2016 and knew we had to help her. Animals in general have a difficult time being adopted in Iran, especially special needs animals like Tamana. Through much coordination, we were able to bring her to Cleveland in March 2016 & on the road to a better life.

Estimated to be around 7 years old, Tamana has seen the specialists at Ohio State University and has undergone many tests and evaluations. They have determined that her paralysis is permanent and that she is suitable for a cart. . Tamana (aka Tam) walks with the assistance of a cart when outside for longer distances and periods of time. She typically goes for longer walks several times per week and spends plenty of time in the fenced yard without the cart - as she can move around without it. As you can see from the pics loves being outdoors and rides well in the car.

In addition to her consults at Ohio State, Tam also had a dental cleaning and surgery to remove some benign mammary lumps. Her overall blood work is excellent. On Nov 9, 2018, Tamana had below the knee amputations on both hind legs. They were losing circulation due to her paralysis and were essentially dying.

Tamana is very curious and has gained confidence over the last few years with every new person and activity. She is generally welcoming to other people and dogs, but sometimes she gets nervous, so we’ve learned that slow introductions are best until she is acclimated. Ideally, her adopter is someone who is retired or works from home and enjoys activity. Cats are in her foster home, and her foster mom reports Tam is not a fan of any of them.

Like most dogs with paralysis, Tam is prone to UTIs and needs her bladder manually expressed about 3 times per day. Her adopter should plan on having urine tests done every few months to ensure there is no infection. These tests are essential for her well-being - along with treatment of any infection. She does not have any issues with her bowels emptying - though she cannot voluntarily control them. Tam will also benefit from her new home continuing to work on flexibility & stretching with daily 5-10 minute exercises. Tam took a basic obedience course and learned several commands - and enjoyed it very much!

Tam recently was diagnosed with dry eyes and will need to be on Optimmune ointment 2x/day. This costs around $50 for a tube that lasts about 5-6 wks. In addition to this medication, we also use cranberry powder and Cosequin with MSM joint supplements and encourage the adopter to continue these in her new home.

We are looking to ideally place Tamana with a family in the Northeast Ohio region so that they can visit multiple times & ease the transition period. Her cart will go with her to her new home. We are hopeful someone will fall for Tamana as much as we have. Also, Tamana was a finalist in Petcurean's "Uplift the Underdog" contest, and as such, she received 1 year's worth of high-quality food (which will be valid until around June 2020)!

Please email us with questions. We are happy to answer them! midohioawl@yahoo.com

MAWL's dogs are spayed or neutered, microchipped, dewormed, heartworm-lyme-ehrlichia tested if old enough and up to date on vaccines prior to going to their new homes. We select our adopters through an application process. We require vet and personal references as well as a home visit. We prefer to adopt our pets to Ohio residents. An adoption donation of $175 helps to cover the costs involved.