Meet Lufy — a happy little rescue dog who’s special in more ways than one.
But things for him weren’t always so cheery.
Lufy originates from Korea, where he was purchased by a family from a disreputable breeder, who bred him to be unusually small.
And, sadly, when he was about 4 months old, Lufy began developing health problems, including difficulty breathing and an abnormal curvature of his spine. Before long, Lufy was unable to use his hind legs to walk.
For his family, by then living in the United Arab Emirates, his condition was too much to handle. So, they surrendered him to volunteers from the UAE-based Sahara Kennel Rescue.
“We have experience working with animals that suffer from paralysis,” Xyza, manager of the rescue, told The Dodo. “We took Lufy in and had a custom wheelchair made for him using the lightest materials to avoid putting extra strain and weight on his body.”
Health problems aside, Lufy’s new caretakers soon realized that he was a cheerful soul in love with life.
“Despite his condition, he doesn’t let anything slow him down,” Xyza said. “Lufy is always happy, and everyone who meets him falls in love with him. With everything he’s been through, we wouldn’t blame him for being a grumpy little dog, but he’s the complete opposite, bringing joy to everyone he meets.”
Under his rescuers’ care, Lufy has blossomed. And after being fitted with his custom wheelchair, he’s regained his mobility.
But there’s still one thing Lufy’s been without — a forever home to call his own.
Earlier this week, Lufy’s rescuers shared posts announcing that he was available for adoption. And the response online has been overwhelming. In just a few short days, the posts received well over one million likes and shares.
Indeed, everyone loves little Lufy.
“We were surprised by the response this post has received, but we never doubted that everyone would fall in love with him,” Xyza said. “From the moment we met him, we knew he was special. We’ve heard from people all around the world, and it’s been beautiful to see so many from different countries wanting to give Lufy a forever home. Even with his disabilities, people still loved him.”
Unfortunately, likely nothing can change the fundamental issues Lufy inherited. But adoption offers have been pouring in regardless by those eager to give him a joyful life, quirks and all.
“We are very optimistic that Lufy will find the perfect home,” Xyza said. “We have received many wonderful adoption applications for him and have been in contact with the families to explain what Lufy needs and the specifics of his condition. They have all been very receptive and are eager to provide him with everything he requires.”
