Senior Dog Left Unable to Walk After His Wheelchair was Stolen, Gets Moving Again Thanks to Community Support

A Colorado dog owner is thankful for her community stepping up to replace a stolen wheelchair for her senior pet. 

In an interview with CBS News Colorado, published on Nov. 18, Megan Caligiuri of Englewood said her 15-year-old rescue dog Griff can no longer walk on his own and needs wheelchair assistance. However, the wheels she had for the schnauzer mix were recently stolen, she said.

“I take them off after every walk. I leave them outside because they’re dirty. He rolls around through stuff,” Caligiuri told the news station. “The next morning, he’s pretty jazzed for his next walk. I go outside and they’re gone. I have no faith left in humanity that someone would steal a disabled dog’s wheelchair.”

After filing a report with the police, Caligiuri said she shared the news on the neighborhood social app Nextdoor, hoping for leads.

“Over 80 people responded, offering donations, resources, and support. It was really heartwarming to see that much compassion,” Caligiuri said. “Someone said they saw a guy on a bike, with what looked like the wheels, serving as a trailer.”

The overwhelming response led to Caligiuri and Kathryn Groenewold with Paw Prosper, the parent company of Walkin’ Pets, meeting, meaning brand new wheels for Griff. 

“We just couldn’t leave this dog without wheels,” Groenewold told CBS News Colorado. “There’s nothing more incredible than seeing a previously immobile pet have movement and excitement and the joy of running and play come back into their lives.”

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“Our team works very hard to make sure that each chair is perfectly fitting for the dog,” Groenewold continued. “We hope that Griff and Megan are going to be able to enjoy more good days together as a result.”

For Caligiuri, seeing Griff back outdoors, enjoying his walks again, is more than she could ask for. 

“I feel so overwhelmed by the kindness of people. This is how he gets around and how he enjoys life and experiences life,” Caligiuri said. “My faith in humanity has been restored. Thank you, everyone, so much.”