VOLUSIA COUNTY, Fla. – The young German shepherd pup that survived a second story fall late last year won’t be going back to the woman who tossed her over a hotel balcony and has a new life ahead as a service dog, according to an update from Volusia County government officials.
On Dec. 14, 2020, Volusia County deputies responded to the Motel 6 on West International Speedway Boulevard where staff said Allison Murphy, 35, had attacked a maid. When deputies went to speak to Murphy, she rushed out and threw the dog over the railing, according to Volusia County Sheriff’s Office records.
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The dog survived the fall, landing on her feet, and was scooped up by people nearby. Rescuers nicknamed the 1-year-old dog “Miracle.”
The Miracle pup has been with a foster family since being dropped from the hotel balcony and is a trained service dog. Volusia County Animal Services have identified a new home for Miracle with a military veteran in need of a service dog.
“Just like her name that day was truly a miracle that she did not sustain any further injuries,” said Adam Leath, Director of Volusia County Animal Services.
It took three months of recovery and training but on Thursday, Miracle went home with Ted and Bridget with a big role as a service dog and companion for Ted.
“We hit it off right away! She wanted to roughhouse with me, and I wanted to roughhouse with her,” he said.
Ted is a disabled veteran who served in Iraq and Afghanistan in the Marines Corps.
“I know she’s definitely going to take care of me. If I get a little anxious, or a little upset or anything, she’s going to calm me down, I know it,” he said.
According to an update from the county, a Volusia County judge has ruled that Murphy is unable to provide for the dog and granted a petition to have the dog permanently removed from her care. She is also barred from owning or possessing any animals for five years and must cover the expenses for Miracle’s care since she was taken by authorities.
Murphy is charged with animal cruelty and resisting a law enforcement officer with violence.