Adopt

My name is Mario!

Posted over 4 months ago | Updated 1 month ago

Adoption process
1

Submit Application

2

Interview

3

Home Check

4

Meet the Pet

5

Sign Adoption Contract

6

Pay Fee

7

Take the Pet Home

My basic info

Breed
Husky/Siberian Husky
Color
White - with Black
Age
Adult
Size
Weight
Sex
Male
Pet ID
21765605-D250027

My details

Alert icon Not good with cats
Checkmark in teal circle Purebred
Checkmark in teal circle Spayed / Neutered
Checkmark in teal circle Has special needs

My story

Here's what the humans have to say about me:

Age: 3 years

Size: 40 lbs

Estimated breed: Husky

Lives with: People

Perfect home: Single animal home, or extremely tolerant similarly sized dog and ability to follow strict decompression

 

Beautiful Mario was saved from an overcrowded shelter in Maryland, when his time was up and he found himself euthanasia-listed only due to a lack of space. On top of being extremely emaciated at only 35 lbs with every rib sticking out, Mario showed signs of neurological challenges, which is beyond the shelter’s limited ability to care for. We had him assessed by our neurologist, who confirmed Mario’s symptoms are consistent with cerebellar ataxia, a disorder that affects the cerebellum region of the brain. The effects on Mario’s day-to-day life are minimal and do not cause him any pain, and does not require any additional medical treatment! Despite being three years old, many of his mannerisms and development milestones are much closer to that of a young puppy. He strives to please his people and is very food-motivated, making teaching him fun! With consistency and a patient handler, Mario thrives just like any other dog.

 

Mario is a 3 year old, 41 lbs husky who has cerebellar ataxia. This affects his coordination, gait, and his brain development. His trainers have been helping him with his impulse control and learning doggie social cues. Mario adores other dogs but comes on super strong, and doesn’t always listen when other dogs tell him no. He’s had a few short successful play sessions with the trainer’s extremely tolerant dog!

Mario adores all people, does not have a mean bone in his body, and is fine with older kids (12+) who can handle his mouthiness. He’s great in the car, walks fantastic on leash and is not reactive, making him the perfect sidekick to take with you on fun adventures!

- Mario will thrive as the only animal in the home. He could potentially live with another dog who can match his energy and size. It will take time before the dogs are able to cohabitate.

- his people must have patience and understand things are not going to be perfect at first. It will take time for Mario to adjust and learn his new environment and family. Things cannot be rushed with him.

- his people must also be willing to go through "boot camp" with his training team. Mario has some learning challenges and understanding how to work with him is going to be very important.

- He should have family members who are home more often than not. Mario is more similar to a 9-month old puppy than a 3 year old, so he needs frequent potty breaks in order to be set up for success!

To adopt Mario, please apply on our website! https://www.nirvanaanimalrescue.org/adoption-application

Please note we cannot guarantee the age or breed of any of our dogs. All of our dogs are working on their crate and house training.

PA Kennel License #18366



November 10, 2025, 11:18 pm
Rescue
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This organization is committed to providing a positive adoption experience! Learn more.

Nirvana Animal Rescue

Contact info

Pet ID
21765605-D250027
Contact
Phone
Address
Shermans Dale, PA 17090

Their adoption process

1.

Submit Application

2.

Interview

3.

Home Check

Conducted virtually

4.

Meet the Pet

5.

Sign Adoption Contract

6.

Pay Fee

7.

Take the Pet Home

Additional adoption info

Thank you for your interest in adopting a dog from Nirvana Animal Rescue! Our adoption process is in place to ensure we find you the perfect match. The process includes the following steps:

Submission of online application.

Volunteer review of your application, including a background check on all adults living in the home, checking personal references, contacting your landlord if you rent, and contacting your veterinarian if you have current pets.

Phone interview with a volunteer to discuss the answers on your online application, share more information about Nirvana Animal Rescue, and answer any questions you have.

Virtual home visit with a volunteer to review your home and yard and ensure it is a safe environment for a dog.

If your application passes the above steps, the final step is arranging a time for your entire family, including resident dogs, to meet the dog you’d like to adopt! We require that everyone in the family meet the new dog before fully approving the adoption.

Adoption application

More about this rescue

Nirvana Animal Rescue is a 501(c)(3) non-profit animal rescue organization committed to providing sanctuary to homeless, neglected, and abused animals. We rescue companion animals who are left behind, forgotten, neglected, thrown away, or abused and provide them with their own nirvana, free from suffering and pain. All our animals are behaviorally assessed and many receive professional training prior to being placed in their forever homes. Our emphasis is on the quality, not quantity, of animals placed to ensure successful, lifelong adoptions.

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