When Furby first arrived at Austin Pets Alive! (APA!) from a local shelter, his future looked uncertain. The 1-month-old goldendoodle puppy was fighting multiple medical issues, but his rescuers refused to give up on him.
For days, it seemed unlikely that Furby would survive, but the little pup’s fighting spirit kept him going. Slowly, he began to show signs of improvement. Despite his progress, Furby struggled with neurological challenges that left him unable to walk or even sit up on his own. Still, he kept trying, demonstrating an unbreakable will to live despite the odds stacked against him.

“Furby’s story, sadly, reflects a larger problem,” Luis Sanchez, director of public relations and communications at APA!, told The Dodo. “He was surrendered as a sick puppy, part of a litter where the other pups reportedly showed no symptoms. The demand for designer breeds like goldendoodles often prioritizes profit over health, leading to medical complications and shelter surrenders.”
Eventually, Furby grew strong enough to move to a foster home, and that’s where his transformation truly began.

Surrounded by the love of his foster family and the companionship of his foster siblings, Furby started to blossom. He went from a fragile puppy who could barely lift his head to a lively little dog running, playing, and hopping around like a bunny. His progress exceeded everyone’s expectations.
Thanks to the care and dedication of APA! and his foster family, Furby has been given a second chance at life. While he still has some recovery ahead, his future looks bright, and it won’t be long before he’s ready for a forever home.

Furby’s journey serves as a reminder of the resilience of animals and the life-changing power of love and care.