Everyone meet Athena!
Athena is a loving and friendly one year old German Shepherd with a heart of gold. Despite her strength and size, she exudes warmth and affection towards everyone she meets. Her eagerness to please and befriend makes her an instant favourite amongst humans!

Athena is a working dog at heart, always ready for a task or activity. However, she requires some special attention due to her unique needs and health condition.

Being a working dog, Athena thrives on activity and mental stimulation. Regular exercise and engaging tasks will not only keep her physically fit but also mentally stimulated. It's essential to keep her engaged with tasks and exercises to satisfy her natural instincts.

Her love for toys and fetching provides an excellent outlet for her energy and intelligence. Regular playtime and structured training sessions will be essential to channel her energy in a productive direction and reinforce good behavior.

Athena has been diagnosed with Multifocal Intervertebral Disc Degeneration along with multifocal lateral and ventral spondylosis deformans. This condition requires careful monitoring and management to ensure her comfort and well-being. While there may be some risk of developing spinal arthritis or disc disease in the future, proactive measures and regular veterinary check-ups can help mitigate these risks.

What is Multifocal Intervertebral Disc Degeneration and Multifocal lateral and ventral spondylosis deformans? It's known as a spinal cord injury, it occurs when the disc that sits between two vertebrae to cushion or absorb movement in the spine deteriorates and presses on the spinal cord. As well as is a chronic disease process of the spine where bony growths that form in your joints or in the spine form at the edges of the vertebrae.

Athena is not just a pet but a loyal companion and potential working partner. With the right training, care, and attention to her health needs, she has the potential to be an invaluable member of the family and a cherished friend for years to come.

She has been spayed and is up-to-date on her vaccinations, ensuring she's ready to embark on new adventures with you.

If you're interested in meeting her, please contact our North Shelter at (416) 338-7297(PAWS) between 10:30am - 6:30pm to find out how!

For more information about this animal, call:
City of Toronto Animal Services North Region at (416) 338-PAWS (7297)