Special Needs Pets

Welcome to LHS’s page dedicated to information about our Special Pets.

Special Needs and Overlooked Pets

Special needs cats and dogs get passed over because potential adopters fear their disability will make them harder to care for, even though for some animals it makes very little difference at all! Special needs animals can make terrific pets, often with normal life spans and minor accommodations in care routines. Overlooked pets may be shy or under socialized cats that do not show well in an adoption event or in-store shelter environment, or they may be dogs who need time to establish a trusting relationship with a human guardian. These dogs and cats would normally be considered “unadoptable” by most shelters, but thanks to Leesburg Humane Society, they have a chance to find a home of their own.

Information About Our Special Pets

We welcome you to get acquainted with our ‘dear ones’ who tend to get lost among the throng of cute kittens and puppies, or “normal” animals. These are animals who just need extra exposure and focused attention to find their forever home so we are dedicating a special page for our special pets. Our goal is not to pull on your heartstrings but to celebrate our animals that despite their challenges, have survived and still have so much love to give.

Learn More

Who do We Consider a "Special Needs" Pet?

• A pet that has always been the one left behind.
• A pet who is physically or emotionally challenged in some way.
• A pet who has an impairment or limitation of one or more of its abilities—but not in its most important ability: the ability to give and receive love.

If you consider adopting one of these pets, we ask that you decide with your head and not just your heart. Some of these pets will require more attention, time, love, and in some instances money, than the average household pet.

Remember, when looking for a pet for adoption, consider one that is special. You will surely find a wonderful pet.

Elderly Animals

Giving a home to a senior pet is the most loving gift we can give to an animal with a short life expectancy. Older pets are sometimes the hardest to place, but the rewards are great for the person who can provide:

A warm spot in the sun for an elderly cat
A leisurely, daily walk for an elderly dog
A daily pill
A super soft bed
A heart to offer love through the final years.

Whatever their situation may be, elderly dogs and cats are looking for a heart to claim, and a lap to call their own.

Absused Animals

Abused animals may have been:

abandoned
malnourished
not provided with proper veterinary care
deprived of interaction and kindness
generally neglected.

Abused animals can be skittish and distrustful of humans. These dear ones need a safe and comfortable environment where their physical and emotional needs are met consistently for some time before they come to trust their new surroundings. Structure will allow them to thrive and be less anxious.

Many abused animals settle into a new home with relatively few problems; once they know they can trust and love again they can form strong and deep bonds which many people find especially rewarding. To share this bond with an animal that has been abused can be a humbling and awesome experience.

Disabled or Disfigured Animals & Amputees

Disabled pets are sometimes the hardest to place, but the rewards are great for the person who can provide

A warm spot in the sun for an elderly cat
A leisurely, daily walk for an elderly dog
A daily pill
A super soft bed
A heart to offer love through the final years

Whatever their situation may be, elderly dogs and cats are looking for a heart to claim, and a lap to call their own.