Walter is 10 years old, a senior Boxer living with a large tumor on his shoulder and a body that is becoming progressively weaker.
Most of the time, Walter lies near the front of his kennel. He does not have much energy anymore, and getting onto his feet requires visible effort.
Walter is being presented as a dog at risk of euthanasia. However, no exact deadline, shelter name, location, or confirmed diagnosis for his tumor was provided, so none of those details can responsibly be invented.
There is one behavior, however, that repeatedly gets people's attention.
Someone stops outside Walter's kennel.
Walter struggles to his feet.
Then, instead of approaching them, he turns around and faces the wall.
A few seconds later, his tail begins gently tapping against the floor behind him.
Walter Gets Up β Then Turns Away
When nobody is standing outside, Walter often rests near the front of his kennel.
That changes when he realizes someone has stopped.
Walter begins trying to stand.
For a dog whose body is becoming weaker, the movement is slow and difficult. He has to push himself upright while dealing with the large mass on his shoulder.
Eventually, he gets onto his feet.
But Walter does not step toward the visitor.
He turns away.
He positions himself with his face toward the kennel wall and remains there.
At first, the behavior can make Walter appear as though he wants nothing to do with the person outside.
Then his tail moves.
One small tap against the floor.
Then another.
Walter still does not turn around.
His face remains toward the wall while his tail quietly continues to move behind him.
His Tail Tells a Different Story Than His Posture
Walter's behavior should not be given an explanation that cannot be verified.