Wheely Willy facts for kids
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| Species | Dog |
|---|---|
| Breed | Chihuahua |
| Sex | male |
| Born | c. 1991 |
| Died | December 22, 2009 (aged 17–18) |
| Known for | raising awareness for disabilities |
| Owner | Deborah Turner |
| Weight | 4 lb (1.8 kg) |
Willy (born around 1991, died 2009) was a special chihuahua dog from Long Beach, California. He couldn't use his back legs, but he became famous because of two popular children's books written about him. Willy often visited places to help people understand more about disabilities. After being on the TV show Animal Planet, many people started calling him Wheely Willy.
Willy's Early Life
Willy was found alone in a cardboard box. He had injuries to his back and his voice box was hurt. A vet hospital took him in and gave him care. Willy stayed there for a whole year, but no one adopted him.
Deborah Turner, a pet groomer, heard that Willy might have to be put to sleep if he didn't find a home. So, she decided to adopt him.
Getting Around with Wheels
When Willy first came home, he weighed only two pounds (about one kilogram). Deborah had to carry him everywhere. She really wanted Willy to be able to move on his own. She tried different ideas, like attaching big helium balloons to his back or putting him on a skateboard. These didn't work very well.
Then, Deborah saw an advertisement for K9 Carts. These are special wheelchairs made just for dogs. Willy quickly learned how to use his new wheels! People who knew Deborah were curious about Willy. Soon, local news started covering his story. This led to him becoming famous all over the world.
Willy's Adventures
Willy traveled to many places, even other countries. He often visited hospitals to cheer people up. He also took part in events like the Cystic Fibrosis Fun Walk and the Los Angeles Marathon. Willy appeared on many TV talk shows and news programs.
In 2004, one of his books was translated into Japanese. Willy then flew to Japan! A senior vice president from All Nippon Airways even gave him a pilot's cap. Willy stayed for two weeks and met the royal prince and princess.
Many people who met Willy said he was a true inspiration. They admired his strong spirit and kind nature.
Willy's Passing
Willy sadly passed away on December 22, 2009. He and Deborah were both hurt when Deborah slipped on a wet porch. Willy couldn't recover from his injuries.
- Deborah Turner, Diana Mohler, authors; Rhonda McHugh, illustrator (1998). How Willy got his Wheels. ISBN: 0-944875-54-8
- Deborah Turner, Diana Mohler, authors; Sue Ehrends, illustrator (2003). How Willy Got His Wings: The Further Adventures of Wheely Willy. ISBN: 0-944875-88-2
- Colleen Needles, Kit Carlson, Kim Levin (2000). Working Dogs: Tales from Animal Planet's K-9 to 5 World. ISBN: 1-56331-843-1
