The story sparked a petition drive, congressional intervention and lots of talk.
RELATED: SEPTA police officer forced to surrender his K-9, despite family protests
SEPTA police K-9 reassigned
Abal the K-9 was reassigned to a new handler this week who noticed the dog was having trouble performing certain tasks.
Penn vets discovered a bulging disc in Abal's back.
Abal has since been treated by the doctors, and is resting comfortably.
Based on the diagnosis, SEPTA has decided to retire the dog from active duty and return Abal to the family of Officer Richard Galanti.
SEPTA is moving quickly to find a replacement for Abal.
RELATED: Congressman Bob Brady offers $40,000 to return K-9 to SEPTA officer
Brady offers $40K for return of K-9
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