When Furby was first brought to Austin Pets Alive! (APA!), his condition was dire. The tiny 1-month-old Goldendoodle had been surrendered by his previous owner due to serious health issues that left him struggling to survive. Despite his frail state and uncertain future, the team at APA! refused to give up on him. Furby’s journey would become an inspiring testament to resilience and hope, though the challenges ahead seemed insurmountable. From his first fragile days at the rescue to the miraculous transformation that followed, Furby’s story has touched everyone who has met him.
Upon arrival, Furby was unable to walk or even sit up due to underlying neurological issues. Every day brought uncertainty, but it was clear he had an unwavering will to survive. The APA! team worked tirelessly to stabilize his health, providing him with the medical attention and care he desperately needed. Slowly but surely, Furby began to show signs of improvement, defying the odds stacked against him.
In an interview with The Dodo, Luis Sanchez, director of public relations for APA! explained: “Sadly, Furby’s story highlights a bigger issue. He was surrendered as a sick puppy, part of a litter whose other pups reportedly showed no symptoms. While his exact history is unknown, the demand for designer breeds like Goldendoodles too often leads to puppies bred for profit rather than health, increasing the likelihood of medical complications and shelter surrenders.”
When Furby was strong enough, he was placed in a foster home, and that’s where his transformation truly began. Surrounded by the warmth of his foster family and the playful companionship of other dogs, Furby began to heal emotionally and physically. The once-helpless puppy who couldn’t lift his head was now bounding around like a joyful bunny, soaking up love and learning how to simply be a dog.
Rescuers swooped in, but when they got the pup into their care, she had lost the use of her back legs, was struggling to breathe, and weighed just around 20 pounds.
“[H]e is playing with his foster siblings and learning what love is,” Sanchez said, reflecting on Furby’s incredible progress. Though he still has some recovering to do, Furby’s future looks brighter than ever. Soon, he’ll be ready to find his forever home—a loving place where he can continue to thrive and inspire others with his remarkable story.
Toledo, United States.
