Porter is a determined and resilient 5-year-old French Bulldog who has already overcome immense challenges on his path to recovery. When he arrived at the shelter, he was unable to walk likely struggling with mobility issues for months, as shown by pressure sores and muscle loss. Despite this difficult beginning, Porter’s spirit has remained unshaken. His will to heal and his joyful personality have captured the hearts of everyone who meets him.

Under the care of a licensed canine physical therapist, Porter is making steady progress. His at-home therapy routine includes 3–4 workout sessions weekly and occasional laser therapy, dry needling, and red light therapy, all of which have helped him begin to stand and take steps again. While he still relies on his wheelchair for mobility, his improvements are promising, and his team remains hopeful that continued therapy will bring even more gains. Around the house, Porter wears traction shoes to help him navigate tile floors, though he often chooses to scoot—his preferred method when he’s feeling excited or in a hurry. Still, with time and encouragement, he’s motivated to walk, and his strength continues to grow.

Though Porter is continent, he currently wears a diaper while using his wheelchair, and we’re working on better understanding his potty routine to support him in transitioning out of diapers. Recently, he tapered off steroid medications and is now scheduled for his neuter surgery. Since stopping steroids, he’s developed some mild hair loss, which is being addressed by our veterinary team. His hair loss does appear to be a case of mange which can happen after long doses of steroids. He’s being treated now with a medication for mites, some antibiotics and medicated baths. We should expect to see some improvement with his hair loss in just a few weeks. Porter has also been switched to a hydrolyzed prescription diet to support his skin health and address possible food allergies.

Porter’s personality is full of charm he’s sweet, expressive, and a little stubborn in the most lovable way. He’s great in the car and enjoys meeting new people with curiosity and confidence. With other dogs, he can come on strong, especially with dominant personalities, but with patience and proper introductions, he learns to get along well. He typically thrives with smaller or more laid-back companions, or even as the only dog in the home. Porter isn’t particularly interested in toys or playing with other dogs—what he truly wants is to be by his person’s side. He’s learning to enjoy outings in his wheelchair and stroller, which give him the chance to explore the world and meet new people along the way.

Porter is at his best when he has the freedom to be near his people. While crates make him anxious, he’s proven to be reliable and well-behaved when left unconfined. He flourishes in a calm, structured home where he can feel safe, supported, and included. As he continues to regain strength, his personality has truly begun to shine he’s become more playful, more talkative, and more confident each day, embracing life with renewed joy and determination.

Porter is looking for a home with someone experienced in French Bulldogs who is committed to continuing his therapy, skin care, and special diet. He needs a patient, flexible adopter who will support his ongoing journey toward independence. In return, you’ll gain a loyal, quirky, and inspiring companion who will bring laughter, love, and unmatched determination into your life. Porter has already come so far and he’s just getting started.