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This is Shaggy, a 1 year old Lhasa Apso x Yorkshire Terrier who was picked up as a stray by the local dog warden. Shaggy was taken to the vets where he was diagnosed with Ataxia and now he’s in the care of the RSPCA in Macclesfield, waiting for a new home. The RSPCA think it’s likely that Shaggy was dumped because of his condition.

Ataxia is a condition that causes loss of ability to co-ordinate muscular movement and it can encompass a variety of different problems with co-ordination and balance. These include a staggering gait, often with balance problems and a prominent goose stepping and crossing over of the front limbs.

Stress can bring on severe episodes of Ataxia which can be misinterpreted as a seizure, so it’s paramount that Shaggy is not put into any stressful situations.

Here is a video of just how well he copes though!...

YouTube - RSPCA Macclesfield - Shaggy - Yorkshire Terrier cross

Shaggy is looking for a very special place with someone who can be around all the time, so he’d be ideal for a retired couple. He doesn’t need medication and although the condition can seem disturbing to some people, there is no pain or discomfort.

What’s also important to Shaggy, is that his new owner will give him space to be a normal dog and not molly coddle him. He can get around fine and live a normal doggy life, but just needs a de-cluttered home to allow him to move around freely.

He’s a very cute and affectionate boy, quite puppy-like in his behaviour and a joy to be with, so please don’t let his disability put you off. Shaggy is simply adorable!

He is microchipped, worm and flea treated and has started his vaccinations. He will be neutered in due course.

If you think you’ve got the right sort of home for Shaggy, please contact the RSPCA as follows;

Telephone: 01625 669620
Email: dogs@rspca-macclesfield.org.uk