A video of a young German Shepherd being thrown from a Daytona Beach balcony went viral in December, and now she has heartwarming news—she’s been adopted and will soon begin her new role as a service dog for a war veteran. After a court found that the dog’s previous owner, Allison Murphy, was unable to care for her, a petition for rehoming was approved. Murphy faced felony charges and is prohibited from possessing animals for the next five years.

The incident unfolded when Volusia County police responded to a Daytona Beach hotel in December 2020 after receiving complaints about a woman threatening to jump from a second-floor balcony. Before law enforcement arrived, Murphy tossed the dog over the balcony. Miraculously, the dog regained her footing and fled. Onlookers rescued her and took her to an animal hospital for treatment, earning her the nickname “Miracle.”

Miracle has been in the care of a foster family since December. As a young registered service dog, she still has much love and support to offer. Animal Services has successfully found her a new home with a war veteran in need of an assistance animal. Service dogs play a crucial role in aiding veterans with injuries and physical limitations by performing tasks such as opening doors, controlling switches, fetching items, and barking for assistance. Additionally, they offer emotional support and comfort to veterans dealing with PTSD or other mental health issues stemming from their service.

Volusia County Animal Services Director Adam Leath expressed his congratulations on Miracle’s positive outcome, stating, “We’re delighted that working with our law enforcement partners, we were able to intervene and protect Miracle from any more damage.” The collaboration between Animal Services and law enforcement organizations continues to provide aid and resources to both our four-legged and two-legged friends.