A Labrador retriever mix described as “super sweet” has defined the odds after surviving several gunshot wounds, including one in the neck.
On March 5, 2025, Barkley was brought into BARC Animal Shelter in Houston, Texas, with multiple gunshot wounds. One bullet had passed through his neck, grazing his eye before exiting near his ear. Another was lodged in his chest and required surgical removal.
Barkley also had an entry wound in his shoulder, and X-rays later revealed an additional bullet in his leg. To make matters worse, the dog had a broken tooth, adding to his immense pain.
“In many cases, dogs in Barkley’s condition are immediately placed on the euthanasia list due to the shelter’s limited capacity and resources,” Nicole Moeller, a volunteer with Mile High Labrador Retriever Mission (MHLRM), told Newsweek. “Without intervention, he wouldn’t have stood a chance.”
@milehighlabmission/Instagram
Fortunately, Rescued Pets Movement alerted MHLRM to Barkley’s case, and the team acted swiftly. “We were able to tag Barkley and get him out of the shelter before he was euthanized,” Moeller said. “We see a lot of heartbreaking cases, but this one really stuck with us. The fact that someone shot this sweet, innocent dog and left him for dead is just unthinkable.”
Barkley spent two weeks recovering in a Texas foster home before being cleared for travel. On March 21, 2025, he made his way to Denver, Colorado, where MHLRM is based. Now safe and healing with a foster family, Barkley is ready to find his forever home.
Despite everything he has endured, Barkley remains a happy dog. “He’s always wagging his tail and smiling,” Moeller said. “It’s incredible how great his personality is given what he went through. He treats everyone he meets like his new best friend.”
Barkley still has challenges ahead. He is underweight and heartworm-positive, requiring ongoing medical care. Additionally, he will likely need future dental surgery to address his broken teeth. MHLRM, a nonprofit organization, is relying on donations to help cover his medical costs.
@milehighlabmission/Instagram
Shockingly, no arrests or charges have been made in connection with Barkley’s shooting. “Unfortunately, stories like Barkley’s are not uncommon in Texas,” Moeller said. “Stray dogs are often shot, poisoned, or abused. The overpopulation crisis is overwhelming, and there aren’t enough resources to save them all.”
Barkley’s story has captured hearts on social media, too, where people have shared their reactions.
“Oh sweet angel,” posted jojojp11, while thenamesgibson wrote: “Barkley, I can’t wait for you to find your forever family! You are one tough cookie!”
“Sweet baby angel. Glad he’s safe now,” commented @erbender.
Barkley is available for adoption and looking for a loving, active home. He loves other dogs, playing with toys, and going for walks.