If you are a fan of classic fantasy movies, Tucker may look familiar to you. He bears a striking resemblance to Falkor the Luck Dragon from The NeverEnding Story. Much like Falkor, little Tucker is endlessly happy and optimistic despite the odds against him.
He was born with a condition known as Mucopolysaccharidosis VI (MPS VI). Dogs with this developmental disorder are lacking an important enzyme causing damage on the cellular level and leading to facial and skeletal deformities as well as neurological issues. Most pups with MPS VI do not often live past two years. Those that do face a lifetime of painful complications.
According to his mom, Tucker is a mix of Chihuahua, Miniature Pinscher and Poodle. His underbite is a common deformity caused by his disease. His pale blue eyes and pink nose are characteristics caused by Tucker’s albinism. He wears special tinted goggles to protect his peepers from harsh light. Although his appearance is a result of his medical conditions, that doesn’t make this little cotton ball any less adorable!
Tucker uses the popularity of his Instagram account (@TuckerWearsGoggles) and his Facebook page to promote awareness and raise funds for dogs with MPS VI. He and his adoptive mom are active with the non-profit organization, MPS Army Foundation. They hope to decrease the number of dogs born with the disease through genetic testing and also support dogs currently living with MPS.
You might think that a dog suffering from a disease that causes pain and difficulty walking would pretty much lounge around all day, right? Not Tucker. He has developed a unique “army crawl” method of getting around and manages to get into plenty of mischief. Here he is meandering around the yard in search of the perfect place to potty.
Getting pumped up for a walk…
And here’s a snap of him ambitiously taking on a rather large bone.
But when he does decide to crash out for some sack time, Tucker means business.
I mean, is this not the face of a pupper who appreciates a good snooze?
Seriously, that’s some intense nappin’.
Poor guy fell asleep in his evening wear. Where are your PJs, Tuck?
Tucker has never known life without his condition, but like so many brave pups battling disabilities, he makes the best of what he’s been given. Follow Tucker on Instagram for oodles of adorable photos, videos and updates on his fight to make MPS a thing of the past. And if you’re interested in donating to the MPS Army Foundation, you may do so here.
Featured Image via @TuckerWearsGoggles/Instagram
