I found a beautiful pit in distress at a field near a high school last summer. She was very skinny and walking on three legs. I had always been afraid of pits because of the stories you hear, but something drew me to her. I called her and she got so scarred she ran into the street and almost got hit by a car. She disappeared into a field. I felt so badly; I needed to help this dog. I returned the following day and saw her again, but she would not come near me. For a week, I would leave her food and water and attempt to catch her, but no luck. Finally, with the help of some wonderful people. we were able to finally catch her. My idea was to take her to the pound. I could not. It did not take more than 5 minutes to fall in love with her and for this pretty dog to get attached to me; she followed me everywhere. I named her Hope, in “hope” of finding a good home for her. Unfortunately, I could not keep her because of the other dogs I already had. Luckily, I was referred to Lydia at Poochmatch and this wonderful organization took responsibility for her veterinary care. The vet informed us that Hope was approximately 3-years old and had a very badly torn ACL on her hind leg. A very costly surgery was necessary. Poochmatch did not hesitate to cover the cost of the surgeries she needed.
One day, my niece brought over a friend that recognized Hope. We learned that this precious dog had been homeless for over a year and she lived off scraps neighbors would sometimes throw at her! This was so heartbreaking! It was also apparent she had been abused. We noticed she was afraid of loud voices and tall skinny men that dressed in dark clothing.
After her surgery, it took 4 months of recovery before she was finally well enough to be put up for adoption. It took another 6 months before someone became interested in her, as most dogs that get adopted are puppies and small.
Although it was heart breaking to give her up, I know we found the perfect family home. It’s been a week since she’s been gone and there’s not a moment that goes by that I don’t think about her. Fortunately, her new owner keeps me informed on her progress. Her first night away I was told she cried until 2:00 am. The second day she seemed very sad and confused. The third day she started coming around and is doing very well. Since the “Hope” of finding a good home for her has been accomplished, Hope’s new name is Bella. Her new family is so in love with her and for that I am so happy.
