Border Collie Puppy Left With 5 Fractures and Severe Burns Fights Through the Pain

A border collie puppy is making an incredible recovery after enduring a cruel beginning to life.

According to the Manhattan District Attorney’s Office, the puppy — named Luca — suffered “severe abuse” from his former owner. In March 2024, the owner allegedly threw the 14-week-old puppy off a bed, breaking several bones, and later poured hot water on him, causing serious burns. The individual has since been charged with aggravated animal cruelty and torture.

The next day, Luca was taken to Blue Pearl Veterinary Hospital in New York City because he could no longer walk. Vets discovered two broken femurs, three fractured ribs, and severe burns on his back, ear, forehead, eye, and muzzle.

After several days of treatment at Blue Pearl, Luca was transferred to the ASPCA Animal Recovery Center, where he received intensive care — including wound cleaning, pain management, daily bandage changes, and surgery to repair his hind legs.

“When Luca first came to us, it was clear he was in tremendous pain,” said Kris Lindsay, Vice President of the ASPCA Animal Recovery Center. “For weeks, he underwent extensive medical treatment, followed by physical therapy and behavioral enrichment.”

As Luca began to heal, his sweet and playful personality emerged, winning the hearts of his caregivers. Once stable, he moved to a foster home with Dan M., who grew so attached to him that he officially adopted him a few weeks later — giving Luca a new name: Niko.

“I’m so happy to have him,” Dan shared. “He’s incredibly smart and eager to please. His favorite game is hide-and-seek, and he loves running around the park with other dogs.”

Niko still carries some scars — a patch of healed burn marks on his back — so he now wears a UV-protective shirt outdoors. But his joy and energy make it hard to believe the pain he once endured.

“He’s thriving,” Lindsay added. “We’re grateful we could help him heal and see him living a life full of love.”