WINNIE'S BASIC INFO:
NAME: WINSTON
DOB: MAY 19, 2021
NICKNAMES: WINNIE THE ROO, WINDOG
BREED: GREAT PYRENEESE X
WEIGHT: 55lbs
CONGENITAL DEFORMITIES:
Winnie's front left leg has a pretty normal humerus, an underdeveloped radius and is missing the ulna. His right front leg has a short and thick humerus, and a short radius and ulna. It also has 3 toes.
What you don’t see is that he's also missing most of his sternum. This means when he was born his ribs were not connected to anything in the front. He also had a large hernia that was visible when you looked at his chest. After a CT scan and surgery when he was 4 months old, that has been fixed.
MOBILITY DEVICES:
Winnie uses two custom mobility devices to help him safely navigate the world.
His custom wheelchair supports his body and allows him to run, play, hike, and explore with confidence.
Because Winnie doesn’t have functional front legs, he also wears a custom nub cover to protect his limbs and chest when he’s not in his wheelchair. The nub cover cushions his skin from scrapes and pressure, giving him the freedom to move comfortably both indoors and outdoors.
Together, these devices help Winnie live an active, happy life while protecting his body from injury.
As a puppy Winnie wore a chest protector for his missing sternum but as he grew his body compensated and he no longer needs it.
WINNIE'S FAVORITE THINGS:
TREATS:
- Whimzees
- Naturally shed deer antlers
- Fruitables
TOYS:
- all of them
OTHER:
- the golf cart
- the gator
- the Winmobile
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Was Winnie born this way?
Yes. Winnie was born with congenital limb differences, meaning he was born with his disabilities.
Does Winnie use his wheelchair every day?
No. Winnie uses his wheelchair for walks, adventures, and longer periods of activity, but he also spends plenty of time out of his wheels at home.
Can Winnie walk without his wheelchair?
Yes. When he’s not in his wheelchair, Winnie gets around using his nub cover, which protects his body while he moves.
Does Winnie have any other medical conditions?
Yes. Winnie has a small pocket in his esophagus that causes him to regurgitate water after drinking. A CT scan helped identify the problem. To help manage it, he drinks in an upright position and stays calm for a few minutes afterward.
Is Winnie in pain?
No. Winnie was born this way and doesn’t know any different. With the right mobility aids and care, he lives a happy, active life.
Can Winnie run and play?
Absolutely! Winnie loves running, hiking, playing with his friends, and exploring. His disability doesn’t stop him from enjoying life.