Lufy doesn’t walk like other dogs. In fact, he’s a disabled rescue dog who can’t walk at all.
Born with a curved spine and later losing the use of his back legs, Lufy was never given a fair start in life. But that hasn’t stopped him from living it to the fullest — and from becoming a viral inspiration for people around the world.
Originally from Korea, Lufy was purchased from a breeder who specialized in creating “teacup”-sized dogs. The consequences of that unethical breeding showed up early: by just four months old, Lufy was struggling to breathe, his spine was visibly misshapen, and his back legs no longer worked.
Unable to cope with his growing medical needs, his owners — now living in the United Arab Emirates — surrendered him to Sahara Kennel Rescue, a group known for working with animals with disabilities and functional needs.
“We took Lufy in knowing he would need a lot of help,” rescue manager Xyza told The Dodo. “He couldn’t use his hind legs at all. But he was full of life — we saw that right away.”
Not Broken — Just Different
Lufy may be a disabled rescue dog, but his spirit is unshakable.
To give him back some independence, the rescue had a custom wheelchair made from the lightest possible materials to avoid putting more strain on his already fragile body. The moment he was fitted with his wheels, everything changed.
“Lufy doesn’t let anything slow him down,” Xyza said. “Even with all his disabilities, he’s playful, sweet, and full of energy. He’s not just surviving — he’s thriving.”
It would have been easy for Lufy to shut down, to retreat into fear after all he’d endured. But that’s not who he is. He meets every day with a wagging tail and a hopeful heart — the kind of resilience that turns a rescue into a role model.
The World Responds to Lufy’s Courage
Earlier this week, the rescue team shared Lufy’s story online — a little dog in a wheelchair, looking for a home. The reaction was overwhelming.
Within days, the post had gone viral, racking up over a million likes and shares. Comments poured in from around the world, with people offering to adopt Lufy, despite — or perhaps because of — his disability.
“We’ve received so many beautiful messages from people who see how special he is,” said Xyza. “They aren’t scared off by his condition. They’re inspired by how he’s embraced life in spite of it.”
Looking for Love — Wheels and All
While Lufy’s condition isn’t curable, it is manageable. What he needs now is a family who understands that caring for a disabled rescue dog comes with challenges — but also with tremendous rewards.
“We’ve been very open with applicants about what Lufy needs,” Xyza said. “And they’ve been amazing. We’re confident he’ll find someone who sees him for who he is — a joyful, strong little dog who just happens to get around on wheels.”
Lufy isn’t asking for pity. He’s asking for love. And if the outpouring of support is anything to go by, his forever home might be just around the corner.
