When Allan the armadillo arrived at a wildlife rehabilitation center after a dog attack, no one could have predicted he would one day become known for curling up inside a suitcase. What began as an emergency rescue slowly turned into a heartwarming story of trust, recovery, and unexpected comfort. Today, Allan’s unusual napping spot is a symbol of how far he has come.
Allan’s journey highlights both the challenges of wildlife rehabilitation and the creativity required to meet an animal’s unique needs. His caretakers say his personality has flourished, revealing a curious, food-loving armadillo who now feels safe enough to seek affection and rest in the most surprising places.
A Tough Start After a Dog Attack
Allan was transferred to the center by another licensed rehabilitator after suffering injuries from a dog encounter. Despite the trauma, he showed strong energy from the beginning, running around and exploring his surroundings.
At first, Allan kept his distance from people. Over time, consistent care helped him learn that humans were not a threat. The same hands that cleaned his enclosure also brought food, building trust through daily routines.
Recreating Nature Indoors
In the wild, armadillos often cool off by splashing in shallow puddles. Since indoor puddles are not an option, Allan’s caretakers introduced him to the bathtub.
The solution worked better than expected. Allan happily rolls, splashes, and relaxes during bath time, treating it like a full-body massage. These sessions help with enrichment while mimicking natural behaviors.
A Big Appetite and Healthy Balance
Allan is known for his enthusiasm for food and his talent for finding “treasures” around the center, including grocery bags left on the floor. Caretakers closely monitor his diet to prevent unhealthy weight gain.
Regular weigh-ins paid off. Allan has reached his ideal weight, proving that structured feeding and enrichment can support long-term health in rescued wildlife.
The Suitcase That Stole His Heart
The now-famous suitcase discovery happened by accident while a caretaker was packing. Allan repeatedly climbed into the small suitcase, burrowing into the clothes and refusing to leave.
Recognizing his love for enclosed, cozy spaces, the team gave Allan his very own suitcase. It has since become his favorite napping spot and a source of comfort.
A Forever Home, Not a Release
Allan has spent years in human care, making survival in the wild uncertain. His caretakers determined that releasing him would be risky and unethical.
Instead, Allan will live out his life at the center, where he continues to greet familiar faces and nap peacefully in his suitcase—a rescued armadillo finally at home.
