When Zipper was brought to a shelter after being found wandering the streets alone, shelter staff immediately noticed something unique about the 8-year-old canine. Despite being a typical dog with a friendly personality, Zipper has a deformed jaw that gives her a charming and one-of-a-kind grin.
According to staff at Huntsville Animal Services, Zipper’s unique grin doesn’t seem to bother her at all. She eats well and loves treats, showing no signs of realizing she looks different from other dogs.
“We’re not sure what led to the jaw deformity,” mentioned Eri Webb, a volunteer at Huntsville Animal Services, in an interview with The Dodo. “We don’t have a clue about the cause.” She added, “She does have a significant underbite and her teeth are quite spaced out.”
It is likely that Zipper spent most of her life outdoors and did not receive proper care, as evidenced by her condition when she arrived at the shelter. She has significant hair loss due to flea allergies and appears to have had several litters of puppies in the past. It seems she may have been abandoned because she was no longer wanted or needed, but her new shelter family sees her worth and is eager to help her find a forever home.
Zipper may appear unique among her canine companions, but her quirky personality and endearing ways instantly draw you in. “As an older dog, she exudes a calm and gentle demeanor,” Webb noted. “She prefers snuggling over running around, and she enjoys socializing with our other furry friends, especially Mr. Mike, our senior pooch.”
Zipper is great with other dogs and seems to enjoy being around children as well. Her gentle and lovely nature would suit various types of households, as mentioned by the shelter. Zipper has most likely faced challenges in her past, and now she is hoping to find a forever home where she can live out her retirement with a loving family who will appreciate her just the way she is.
