AN adorable dachshund has inspired both animals and humans alike to live their life without limits. 

Harley, an energetic pooch from Tamlaght, suffered an unknown injury in his native Australia that unfortunately left him paralysed from the waist back. 

Things sadly went from bad to worse when he was left without an owner, and due to his complex needs, he found it difficult to find a new owner. 

However, fast-forward to the present day, and Harley's life is vastly different. 

Now living in Fermanagh with his adoring owner, Lynn, a set of wheels has allowed little Harley to do everything a happy dog should.

And his inspirational story hasn't gone unnoticed. Harley is a finalist in the coveted 'Nose of Tralee' competition and was selected by a panel of judges to represent County Fermanagh. 

Later this month, he will go up against 32 other dogs of all shapes, sizes and breeds, in an effort to claim the title. 

"He is living his best life, and he is spoiled rotten!" said Lynn. 

"Naturally, I am absolutely thrilled to see how far he has gotten in the Nose of Tralee; 1,700 dogs were entered, and he is in the final 32. I couldn't be prouder!"

For Lynn, Harley's resilient nature has helped her through her own challenges in life. 

After losing her mum, Roda, in 2021, she came across Harley in an adoption centre after he had been brought from Australia by Husky Salvation. 

"He has saved me, he really has," Lynn continued. "I lost my mum in 2021, and it hit me hard. 

"I came across Harley at Husky Salvation, and I knew it was the right decision to adopt him. It's the best thing I have ever done. 

"Taking on a dog like Harley is a tough job, but it's so, so worthwhile. He is paralysed, and is also incontinent, meaning he has to wear nappies. 

"But apart from that, he does everything that any other dog does. He is so intelligent, he loves his ball, and he loves gathering sticks. Whenever he is put onto his wheels, he is away like a rocket!"

Lynn added that her positive experience with Harley has reinforced her support for adopting often overlooked pets. 

"My motto is 'adopt, not shop'," she said. "Don't overlook a disabled dog, because they have so much to offer.

"It's a sad fact that disabled dogs are overlooked in sanctuaries, but this shouldn't be the case. Our story is a testament to that."

And this inspiring story has also seen Harley become an unlikely advocate for disability awareness.

Lynn spreads Harley's message of hope through a dedicated Instagram account, and he also visits local schools and nursing homes. 

"Harley shows both young and old that even if you have a disability, you can still lead a happy and full life," Lynn continued. "He is in the prime of his life and loving every minute of it, despite his circumstances. 

"The companionship and love he has shown has been second to none. For what I have done for him, he has done for me."