Less than 24 hours after Rafiki was found lying limp in the middle of a Manatee County road, the 8-week-old lab mix pup was not only mobile – but eating, drinking and even wagging his tail.

  • Rafiki was found abandonded in the middle of the road
  • His rescuer would like to adopt him
  • He survived the night, but still has a lengthy recovery ahead of him

He’s still being monitored – and has a long road to recovery – but according to shelter manager Brenna Beightol, the prognosis is good.  

“He perks right up when we take him outside,” said Beightol.

His mysterious ailments include a scaly rash and large patches of missing hair. He’s a little wobbly on his feet (err, paws) too.

"It's not uncommon for us to have dogs and cats come to us with a variety of issues,” started Beightol. “We have seen injuries from being hit by cars, to trauma by people, and even birth deformities. Rafiki has definitely been injured, but by what? That I can't say yet.”

Rafiki, who was found on National Dog Day, will be adopted by his rescuer. If you are interested in adopting, the Humane Society of Manatee County has dozens of other animals looking for a home.