When Wally first arrived at the Town of Islip Animal Shelter, his life had been far from easy. Around ten years old, Wally came in as a stray, and it was clear that he had spent most of his life fending for himself.
Despite the hardships he had faced, Wally’s heart was still open, longing for someone to love him unconditionally. From the very start, the shelter staff embraced him with the affection he had missed for so long.
Wally’s appearance was quite unique, earning him the playful nickname of “Hippopotamus” among those who met him. His large, stocky build, combined with a severe skin condition and blindness in one eye, made him stand out from the other dogs.
While some might find his looks unusual, his friends at the shelter knew that beneath his exterior was a gentle soul eager for love. They worried that his appearance might deter potential adopters, but they held out hope that someone would see past it and appreciate the loving dog he had become.
Danielle Gourley, a veterinary technician at the shelter, described Wally’s personality perfectly to The Dodo: “He loves to drool on you and will do anything for some food.” Wally is also a fan of the simple pleasures, like lounging around and just being in the company of people. Despite his quirks, he has a warm and affectionate nature that makes him easy to love.
Wally’s time at the shelter has stretched on for over a year, and the staff have grown increasingly concerned about his well-being. As a senior dog, Wally deserves to spend his golden years in the comfort of a home rather than a shelter.
While he was cheerful and full of hope when he first arrived, the prolonged stay has started to take a toll on him. Danielle noted, “He seems to be losing ground. He was happy when he first appeared. He enjoys going out, but he seems to be unhappy inside his house.”
The ideal home for Wally would be a peaceful one—free of stairs, young children, and other pets—where he can find comfort in a calm and stable environment. He’s not asking for much, just a family that can understand and accommodate his medical needs. In return, Wally offers his unwavering love and companionship.
Having endured a tough life, all Wally wants now is to spend the rest of his days nestled in the warmth of a family that appreciates him. His friends at the shelter are doing everything they can to find him that forever home, hoping that someone will see Wally for who he truly is—a sweet, loyal dog with a big heart who deserves to live his remaining years in peace and love.
