If you’re on the hunt for a certified snuggler and first-class cuddlebug, then do we have the Frenchie for you! It’s Winona!

Winona came to FBRN after her previous owner could no longer afford her care. And it turns out that Winona needs a little TLC and then some, thanks to a previous injury and a wonky back. As a puppy, Winona broke her left front elbow from jumping off a bed. The elbow was successfully repaired through a surgical procedure, but it left Winona with a limp. Luckily, it doesn’t cause her any pain, and it certainly doesn’t slow her down. Still, care must be taken to ensure that Winona doesn’t reinjure herself, and she should maintain her svelte physique to avoid excess weight on the repaired joint.

Winona also suffers from intervertebral disc disease (IVDD), a condition that encompasses a number of issues affecting the cushioning discs between the vertebrae. IVDD isn’t uncommon in Frenchies, but it is particularly prevalent among dogs that are bred for color, rather than health. In Winona’s case, scans show compression at L1-S1, a mineralized disc at L6-7, and hemivertebrae (a congenital spine deformity) with compression from T4-T9.

Winona also has moderate bilateral hip dysplasia, meaning that her hip joints did not form correctly. As a result, the joints fit poorly together, causing looseness and laxity that can lead over time to painful arthritis. Winona takes anti-inflammatory and anti-arthritis medication to control this condition, and it is vital that her new family continue this regimen.

Finally, Winona has a very sensitive stomach, and is also prone to yeast infections in her facial folds and lady bits. A limited ingredient diet, medicated wipes, and medicated baths are a must to ensure that she both looks and feels her best.

Her medical chart may look like something from The Pitt, but despite it all, Winona is a cheerful girl with a gentle disposition and sunny personality. It doesn’t take much to make her happy—just a nice spot to lay down, and maybe a stuffy or two. She will never say no to a head scratch or a belly rub, and loves to be near her people. Whether you need a footwarmer while you work on the computer or a cuddle buddy for a Netflix binge, Winona’s got you covered.

Winona loves people of all ages, including kids. But she does have a tendency to nibble fingers as a way of showing affection, so she’s not a great match for the toddler set. And everyone in the household, kids included, must be dog-savvy enough to know that Winona cannot be picked up by her armpits or cradled like a baby—instead, great care must be taken to protect her back. As for other dogs, Winona thinks they’re swell, but a lack of proper socialization as a puppy has left her without a clear understanding of canine body language. As a result, she can be overzealous in her play, and often doesn’t recognize when her doggy playmate has had enough. Any dogs in Winona’s orbit should be calm, non-reactive, and tolerant of her puppy-like antics. Cats and other small critters are a definite no.

Winona would be happy in just about any living situation. Regular leashed access to the outdoors would be beneficial, as her potty training is still a work in progress. Winona rarely went outdoors during her first year of life, and was trained to use puppy pads. While in foster care, she has made great progress on this whole going-potty-outside thing, but still occasionally springs a leak on a cushion or dog bed.

The most important thing for Winona is a family who recognizes her needs and limitations, and can provide proper supervision and care to protect her delicate spine and limbs. Winona must always be carried up stairs, and cannot be left unattended on furniture or anywhere else where she might jump and hurt herself. Walks must be brief, and care should be taken to avoid other dogs when out and about, as Winona pulls mightily on her leash when she sees a fellow canine. Winona’s family must also recognize that her conditions are lifelong, and that she may require more intensive treatment (including surgery) as she ages. “I promise I’m worth it!” says Winona.

Winona’s foster mom is also her number one fan, and tells us, “Winona is such a good girl!! She is curious (always at the door when people come home, investigates bugs and loves to meet new people!) She is a gentle soul who is happy to have people around to cuddle up to. She enjoys her stuffed animal friends and freeze dried treats. Winona will nibble human fingers very gently and will lay on her back for belly rubs! Her coloring is gorgeous! Her green eyes and grey coat are a beautiful combination. She even has a tiny white spot on her chest! She is so easy to bond with her human friends and deserves the absolute best!”

If you’re ready to tattoo “Winona Forever” on your bicep, then please fill our an application to adopt! Just be prepared to travel, because Winona is soaking up sunbeams in sunny Southern California, and will not be shipped.

FBRN dogs are in foster care in people’s private homes. For the foster families’ safety, we do not disclose specific locations, and we don’t set up meet and greets prior to applications. For detailed information about the dogs in our care, please read the extensive bios on each dog.