Meet Harley – the cheeky, loveable boy is searching for someone who can give him the chance he deserves, a chance to finally feel safe, cherished, and truly at home.

 

Harley’s life has been filled with unimaginable challenges. He’s partial paralysis in his hind legs, yet his determination to keep going despite everything is nothing short of inspiring. His disability is only a small part of who he is.

 

We found Harley in heartbreaking conditions in February 2024. Imagine a scene of chilling winds, biting cold, and snow swirling around a paralysed dog. Huddled amidst the rubbish, shivering, hungry and utterly alone, was Harley. We found him at a landfill, desperately trying to find food and shelter in the midst of a harsh winter. His back paws, raw and bleeding, told a story of hardship and survival – dragging himself across miles of unforgiving ground, hoping to find food and safety.

 

We took Harley in and rushed him to the vet for care and x-rays. His injuries were too severe for any simple fix, and the vet advised amputation for his back legs. However, after consulting UK specialists, we’ve decided not to. His resilience alone is a miracle. He likely survived a car accident that left him paralysed, but his sheer will to live kept him going.

 

Finding a forever home for Harley in Turkey was impossible, but we couldn't give up on him. Harley arrived in the UK in October 2024 and now lives with a loving foster mum in Ipswich. You can follow his daily adventures and see the joy he brings on his Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/piratewoof.

 

Since arriving into foster, Harley has proven he is a very intelligent, patient and flexible dog. He has adapted well to life inside a home quickly and has responded well to a regular routine. He loves the resident dogs and is friendly with everyone he meets, including cats. 

 

Harley has partial paralysis of his hind legs. Whilst he can stand for short periods of time, he is unable to walk and will drag himself along as his hind legs are fused. Harley has sustained additional injuries to his hind feet, as a result of the way he moves, and his feet are now protected by either wearing boots or using a drag bag during the day. Care of his feet will be paramount going forward. Harley has also been introduced to a wheelchair and he loves the freedom this gives him. He is currently using it for 30 minutes at a time and it is hoped this can be increased, as he adapts to a new way of moving. He can move very fast on his wheels and will charge off, so is currently on a long line whilst his recall is worked on. He can also be walked for short periods using a Tigris lifting harness and any potential adopter will need to be fit enough to lift and hold 17kg. 

 

Harley is doubly incontinent and this is managed by routine and products. Harley opens his bowels predictably first thing in the morning and later in the afternoon. This can also be induced by excitement. Harley does have some sensation and will whine when he feels the urge to go, which gives time to take him outside. His urinary incontinence is managed through the use of belly bands and a pair of flexi pants worn over the top, secured by braces. Harley has his products changed up to five times a day and is cleaned with baby wipes during changes to avoid skin irritation. Harley has learnt the toileting routine very quickly and will stand beautifully whilst being changed. He has a weekly bath of his back end to keep him fresh. Any potential adopter needs to be able to deal with bodily products and have a home with flooring that is easy to clean. 

 

Harley sleeps in a crate without continence products. This is done in order that his skin and genitals can be aired and to reduce the risk of UTIs. He has a waterproof blanket over vet bedding and this is soiled in the morning. Any wet fur is wiped over with dry shampoo and then his belly band and pants put on. His bedding and pants are washed daily and this extra work needs to be taken into consideration by any potential adopters. A tumble dryer is a must! 

 

Harley travels well, but when travelling alone does get stressed and will drool. He prefers to travel outside of a crate. He needs to be lifted in and out of vehicles. He currently weighs 17kg. He is a very good boy at the vets and shows no aggression or worry when being treated, but he does go rigid. He was sedated for a recent hygiene clip, but this was done in order that his muscles/hind legs were relaxed, whilst being moved on the groomers table.

 

Harley will share toys, chews and attention without any guarding behaviours. He has chewed some bedding, but this only happens at night, as he isn't keen on the crate. He isn't destructive in the home. He is an exceptionally good-natured dog and lovely around children.

 

Harley's potential adopter will need to be at home during the day in order to carry out his toileting routine and ensure he keeps his boots/drag bag on. Harley has been left up to three hours without incident. He mainly spends his day on the sofa or outside playing with the resident dogs. Harley would be happiest rehomed where there is another resident dog. Once a routine is in place, Harley is very easy to care for and is a delightfully funny companion. He is determined, brave and totally inspirational. There is an added financial commitment to be considered, as he will need continence products for life. Harley is a 10 year (minimum) commitment for any potential adopter. I have also been advised that he will need pain relief in the future to manage his disability. All equipment purchased for his care will go with Harley.

 

Harley’s foster mum, Yvette, is more than happy to share detailed insights on his needs, personality, and care. Please don’t hesitate to reach out if you have questions or would like to know more.

 

Could you be Harley’s hero? With a heart like his, Harley deserves to feel loved, safe, and valued. If you think you’re the right match, please complete our online adoption application form to be considered. 

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