February 2020 – Shabba arrived at NYC ACC in December 2019, and quietly began slipping through the cracks. By early February he could no longer walk, his forelimbs so compromised he could only “army crawl.” What followed became one of the most extraordinary medical and behavioral rehabilitations in our #OneLuckyPup program’s history.

Realizing no one else was coming for Shabba, we pulled him from the shelter and rushed him to the neurology department at the Animal Medical Center for diagnostics and MRI. The results revealed a subarachnoid diverticulum, a spinal pseudocyst compressing his cervical spinal cord. His spinal cord was bruised, inflamed, and likely compromised since birth, an untreated congenital injury. Surgery was his only chance to walk again.

Thanks to AMC to the Rescue, Shabba underwent successful spinal surgery. The road ahead was long: strict crate rest, physical therapy, mobility work, and behavior support. He was moved to our (foster) Puppy Farm, where soft earth provided both therapy and safety as he relearned balance, coordination, and confidence.

Progress came in waves of walking and stumbling. He worked to overcome separation anxiety and fear-based reactivity. Slowly, the dog who once couldn’t stand began trotting through fields, sleeping through the night, relaxing in his crate, and even accepting calm canine company. And then, the miracle—Shabba ran.

After months of rehabilitation, patience, and daily victories, Shabba transformed into a joyful, affectionate, relaxed dog who enjoyed walks, sunbathing and his people. He coexisted peacefully with the dogs in his foster home, guided by our organization’s Helper Dog, Joey.

After eight months of medical and behavioral recovery, Shabba finally went home—1,100 miles away in Orlando, Florida. We drove him the entire way, staying until he settled. Today, he is adored, safe, mobile, and deeply loved by his forever family.

Follow Shabba’s journey at @shabbathegreat and explore his full history under #adoptshabbambc.