LUCKY

Lucky didn’t get his name by accident — although his life hasn’t been easy, he’s still here. Still loving. Still hoping. And still waiting.

Purchased as a puppy from a breeder, Lucky was abandoned at a training facility when his owner no longer wanted him. Things only got worse from there. He was later adopted by a trainer who, tragically, physically abused him for years. One day, pushed past his limit, Lucky reacted out of fear and bit the man — and was immediately dropped off at a shelter with instructions to euthanize him.

That’s when we got the call to rescue Lucky. We knew he deserved a real chance, and with the help of an experienced, compassionate trainer, we began rebuilding his trust from the ground up. It wasn’t quick or easy, but Lucky proved time and again that he craves connection — that he is capable of healing. Today, he enjoys slow walks, quiet moments, and spending time with the volunteers he knows and trusts. He’s kind, responsive, and incredibly loyal once a bond is built.

Lucky has also done well with other dogs, both here at the rescue and in previous playgroups. He’s social and non-reactive when introduced properly, and may do well with another calm, balanced dog.

Recently, Lucky was adopted into what we believed was the perfect home — experienced, patient people with a wonderful setup. Sadly, his behavioral challenges were more severe than anticipated. Lucky has deep PTSD from years of physical abuse, and after so much of his life spent in kennels, he has never successfully lived in a traditional home environment. The transition proved overwhelming, and Lucky returned to us once again.

Because of this, we are now planning to create a sanctuary for dogs with behavioral challenges — a forever safe place where dogs like Lucky can live comfortably, be loved, and get the care they need, even if adoption isn’t the right path for them. This dream will not only change Lucky’s future but also provide safety for other dogs in our care who deserve the same chance.

Lucky is healthy, neutered, vaccinated, and microchipped. But emotionally, he is getting tired. After being overlooked for so long, he is beginning to withdraw, and it breaks our hearts.

📞 Please call us at 818-348-6000 if you’d like to learn more about Lucky. While adoption may no longer be the best fit for him, you can still be part of his journey by donating toward his ongoing care and supporting the sanctuary project that will change his future.

Help us show Lucky that kindness still exists — and that his life truly matters. 🐾

Even if Lucky never finds that perfect home, we are committed to caring for him for the rest of his life. That means medical care, food, training, enrichment, and lots of love every single day.

👉 If you feel you might be that rare, experienced adopter who can give Lucky the forever home he deserves, please reach out to us at rescue@agwc501.org.

👉 If not, you can still make a difference in his life. Donations of any size go directly toward Lucky’s care and help us keep our promise to him.

Lucky may never get adopted—but with your support, he will always know love. 🐾