In August 2025, nine dogs were seized by the NYPD following allegations of animal abuse. Following their removal, the dogs were transported to the Animal Care Centers of NYC (ACC) for immediate care. The ACC team quickly coordinated with the ASPCA, transporting all of the dogs to the ASPCA Animal Recovery Center the following day, where they received forensic intake exams and continued medical care.
The dogs were all named after various sea creatures, and amongst them was a 9-month-old pup named Urchin. He was decidedly much cuter than his namesake, and stayed at the Animal Recovery Center for four months, patiently waiting for his chance to become available for adoption.
In December, Urchin was transferred to the brand new ASPCA Recovery & Rehabilitation (R&R) Center in Pawling, New York, which provides specialized, compassionate care to dogs like him. The R&R Center was designed with the needs of dogs like Urchin — those who are recovering from cruelty and neglect — at the forefront.
It was here where Urchin was able to finish healing and finally begin his search for a home of his own! In February, seven months after we first met him, Urchin finally got his chance.
Meeting Moon
Dede R. had recently lost her German Shepherd/Australian Cattle Dog-mix named Laci, and she could feel that her other pets were still sad. After receiving some emails from the ASPCA, she found herself looking at our adoptable dogs at the Recovery and Rehabilitation Center. When she saw Urchin’s picture, she was reminded of Laci and quickly inquired about him.
“I thought he was a cattle dog mixed with Lab or German Shepherd, and I was very interested in a young dog of that mix,” Dede says.
Soon enough, it was determined that Dede would be a great match, and Urchin was headed home! He was also given a new name — Moon. Moon quickly settled in with his new family and became especially attached to Dede’s elderly dog, Maya. She fell equally in love, enjoying the youthful energy Moon brought into the home.
When he first moved in, Moon had a blast exploring his new surroundings, playing with every toy he could find and getting plenty of exercise in the fenced-in backyard. He also proved to enjoy cuddling, and he did not want to sleep alone.
Growing Up and Settling Down
Adopting a young dog like Moon was not without its challenges, of course.
“Moon has difficulty distinguishing between a toy and my eyeglasses and a roll of toilet paper,” Dede says.
Though he may take some items that aren’t his, Moon is learning that “no” means to stop, and Dede will redirect him to a real toy. Moon is easily entertained by sturdy Kong toys, and he is a big fan of burning off his energy by playing fetch in the yard.
Since adopting him, Dede considers Moon a dream dog. He has fallen into a regular routine that he loves, starting off the day by running around outside in the yard, and ending the day in bed with his sister, Maya. He even imitates her by sleeping in the silliest positions.
It’s always an adventure going on walks with Moon, too. He loves investigating all the outside smells, and he enjoys socializing with people and other dogs. He has become special friends with a dog down the road, who he always enjoys visiting. Moon is also starting to get along with Dede’s cats, who are already fascinated with him.
“Moon has motivated me to walk more and enjoy the outdoors,” Dede says. “He is a wonderful companion and a great asset to my family.”
Join the Fan Club
For anyone considering adopting a dog of their own, Dede suggests being honest with your concerns and what you’re looking for in a canine companion.
“Have a plan for training and a schedule that you will set up. Follow the 3 days – 3 weeks – 3 months rule: decompress, adjust and settle,” Dede says.
The 3-3-3 guideline for pet adoption is a thoughtful way to give newly adopted pets the time they need to transition into a new home. Even for dogs like Moon who are young, social and energetic, it’s important to be patient and understanding of how they’re feeling in a new environment.
Moon has almost reached the three months mark in his new home, and he has already gained a neighborhood fan club! Neighbors like to visit him and offer to join him on walks.
Having come a long way since he entered the ASPCA’s care, life really couldn’t be better for Moon and his new adoring family and fans.
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