Special needs dog featured in new children's book, with proceeds to benefit pet rescue

WASHINGTON (TND) — Tails are wagging for Joey, a special needs dog from Rhode Island.

Joey, who was born without front legs, now has his own children's book.

It's called "Joey's Two-Legged Life."

So, we did a little somethingwe wrote a book about Joey!" Kristen Peralta, who is the co-founder and executive director of Vintage Pet Rescue, a nonprofit organization that primarily cares for senior dogs, noted on Facebook.

Peralta is also the book's author. She took Joey in after he was surrendered to the Connecticut Humane Society in early 2022, with a family later adopting him and giving him his fur-ever home.

The book is a sweet story about the pup's journey, as well as his contagious determination.

Joey is a small dog with a big personality and heart! He was only born with two legs so he's had to overcome some obstacles, but nothing seems to stop him," according to a description of the book. "His love of life makes everyone around him smile. Joey is showing everyone that his disability doesn't stop him!"

The book, which is 24 pages and was illustrated by Robbin of BallandCookie.com, is available for $30 for a hardcover or $20 for a softcover. All proceeds will be donated to Vintage Pet Rescue.

"This is a great gift for the animal lover in your life," Peralta wrote on social media, adding that she will be scheduling book signing events for the summer and fall.

Peralta and her husband co-founded the nonprofit in 2017. Since then, they have been placing dogs in loving foster and/or fur-ever homes.

Often, many of the dogs end up at Vintage Pet Rescue because their owner died, got sick, or had to move into an assisted living facility.

While it was established for senior dogs, it also helps special needs dogs like Joey.

Joey was adopted by a Rhode Island couple -- and he is living his life to the fullest.

He’s just an amazing little pup,” Cathy Larson, who adopted Joey when he was 6 months old, previously told The National Desk.

Joey, who was born on Christmas Day in 2022, doesn’t have front legs. But Larson said he’s a happy and healthy pup.

He’s got no issues,” Larson said. “He’s up to date on everything and has a great appetite. He does require a little additional care and treatment, but he’s totally worth it.

Joey captured the hearts of people from across the nation in February when he starred in “Puppy Bowl XIX,” an annual television special on Animal Planet.

Learn more about Joey and the book at bookbaby.com.