More: Although Scott's early days are a mystery, I do know that when I adopted him four years ago he had at one time broken both the ribs on one side and his pelvis, suffered from hip dysplasia, heartworm, a tumor near his heart, and bad ear infections (he is deaf). Nicknamed Mr. Flopear (one stands up and one flops down), he apparently had the tips of each ear bitten off along the way. Since his adoption, however, he has enjoyed a healthy and very comfortable life although his dysplasia has progressively limited his mobility.