Ranger is not your typical German Shepherd. He’s adorable and little, and that’s what he’ll always be: adorable and little. He was born with pituitary dwarfism – a rare genetic condition. Some of the people who know his story claim that the adorable dog found the fountain of youth without even trying.
What we need to know about pituitary dwarfism
When one has pituitary dwarfism, their pituitary glands lack the ability to produce enough supply of growth hormones. Because of this condition, Ranger is a lot smaller than other German Shepherds his age. He also looks like he’s only a few months old.
Since he does not have enough growth hormones, his legs are shorter than usual. He has a longer body compared to other German Shepherds, and he’s not growing enough hair.
Loving Ranger
Ranger’s parents immediately noticed his unique physical features when they adopted him. Lucky for Ranger, his parents loved him nonetheless.
Months after the adoption, Ranger had to undergo treatment because of an infection and two kinds of parasites. After running a few more tests, the vet told Ranger’s parents that his genetic condition may have caused the problems.
Underneath all that cuteness
It’s no doubt that Ranger looks adorable, but underneath all that cuteness is a serious medical condition. Studies have shown that dogs with dwarfism suffer from a wide array of illnesses caused by the genetic defect. Ranger’s already suffering from thyroid issues that caused him to lose not just his appetite, but also most of his hair.
Fortunately, Ranger’s parents are quick to respond to his needs. He’s now doing well, he’s back to being energetic, and his hair’s starting to grow again. Ranger spends most of his time playing with his two sisters: Jessie, the German Shepherd, and Hazel, the Labrador.
Credits to SWNS