Description:

Meet Eli!

Eli is a beautiful male shepherd, who was most likely dropped off at the pound by owners who did not want to/or could not afford to deal with his health issues. Even though Eli's body is challenging him, he is full of heart and soul!!

He is estimated to be about 6-7 years old. Eli arrived into our rescue group about 2 weeks ago, having a lot of trouble getting around. He walks with his head tilted to one side, stumbles and loses his balance when walking, and has trouble using his hind legs. It also appears that he may have some sight impairment - especially when it's dark.

Just days ago it was confirmed that he has a severe inner ear infection. The vet flushed his ears out, and he is now being treated with antibiotics and ear drops. This ear infection may be the cause of his head title, and imbalance when walking. His pain and inability to use his hind quarters could be due to arthritis, or something more severe.

We are taking things one step at a time with this special boy. We are hoping that when his infection clears up, some of his problems walking will clear up with it. Then, we will have to make decisions and assess him from that point on.

We are giving Eli this chance at health and love, until it is determined that he no longer has a solid quality of life. Someone else gave up on him, but we don't intend to!!! His body is obviously not working well, but he is a bright and alert guy. He still likes to walk around the yard smelling all the trees, and perks up when he sees or hears something that interests him.

Please consider offering Eli a loving foster home where he can heal, rest, and gain strength. Caring for Eli is going to take devotion and commitment. You will be rewarded ten fold in return. Eli needs to go to a home where he would not have to walk more than 2-3 stairs to get inside and out. (No stairs would be fabulous!) He would do best either being separated from other pets in the home, or in a home with no other pets present (at least until he feels better).

If you would like to foster Eli, please fill out one of our foster or adoption applications on our main website, www.midwestanimalrescue.org, by clicking on the Forms/Applications link under Website Features.

Thank you!!