‘Sweet’ pup who lost leg struggled at shelter. Then came a heartwarming adoption
A German shepherd puppy who lost his leg struggled at a shelter — then came a heartwarming adoption.
“Everyone was absolutely thrilled that he went to an amazing home,” Shelby Hicks, public relations and community engagement coordinator for a Florida animal shelter, told McClatchy News via email. “His new family has experience with shepherds, including tri-pods and medical cases, so he’s in great hands.”
The Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA) of Brevard celebrated Coal’s adoption after the 8-month-old puppy spent most of his life in shelters.
“He originally came to us from another shelter in the area that was closing,” Hicks wrote in an April 3 email. “Coal was born with a deformity in his back leg, which required amputation. He is already showing early signs of hip dysplasia and arthritis, which is common for animals with amputations.”
As the three-legged pup waited for a home, the SPCA hoped he would be matched with a family who could care for his medical needs. He was getting stressed in the shelter environment, making it difficult for him to get along with other dogs, the animal organization wrote on Facebook and in an online adoption profile.
Over time, Coal became known as a “sweet” pup who’s “full of life and energy.” Though he’s shy at times, treats help to bring out his snuggly side.
“Coal is a playful and adventurous pup who loves hikes and outdoor activities,” Hicks wrote. “He’s still working on perfecting his adult manners, but he enjoys training and will thrive with structure and routine in his new home.”
On April 2, the shelter took to social media to share that Coal needed a home. Then two days later, the online exposure led him to an owner who was the right fit.
“We’re all so happy to see him start this new chapter with a family that can help him grow up healthy, happy, and loved,” Hicks wrote.
The SPCA is in Titusville, a roughly 40-mile drive east from Orlando.
This story was originally published April 7, 2025 at 2:51 PM with the headline "‘Sweet’ pup who lost leg struggled at shelter. Then came a heartwarming adoption."
