Pitbulls, often misunderstood and overlooked, have hearts full of love and a great capacity for cuddles. Unfortunately, many of these sturdy boys and girls end up in shelters, waiting for someone to give them a chance and often facing the grim prospect of euthanasia.
Overlooked and Waiting
Izzie was one of those dogs. Brought to the shelter as a stray, she waited endlessly for the perfect family, constantly overlooked. But one day, everything changed for Izzie.
Finding Her Forever Home
Rachel, a dedicated Pittie lover from California, was grieving the loss of her fourth dog and was ready to open her heart to another. When her friend Julie, a volunteer at Desert Dog Project in Arizona, texted her about Izzie’s situation, Rachel knew she had to help.
“Her shelter name was ‘Gredill,’ and she had been in isolation due to a variety of issues from a sinus infection to itchy skin to a horrible ear infection,” Rachel shared on Instagram.
Rachel didn’t hesitate. She arranged for Julie to adopt Izzie on her behalf, and they met halfway to bring Izzie home. With that, Izzie, now Isabelle “Izzie” Hathor Vicknair, found herself in a loving home, safe from the threat of euthanasia.
Adjusting to Her New Life
Transitioning to life in Rachel’s home was initially overwhelming for Izzie. She had likely never been a house dog and was completely frozen when she first arrived in Beverly Hills. It took her a few days to realize she now had a home and a family.
Gaining Confidence
Rachel discovered the perfect way to make Izzie feel at home: a plush toy that looked just like her! This plush cow pig quickly became Izzie’s favorite, helping her relax and feel safe. With her twin plushie by her side, Izzie began to blossom.
Living the Good Life
Rachel ensured that every day was an adventure for Izzie. She enjoyed rides in the convertible, delicious pup cups, and embraced life in Beverly Hills. However, Izzie struggled with severe separation anxiety, fearing abandonment whenever Rachel left the house.
Rachel worked tirelessly to help Izzie overcome this fear with peanut butter lick mats, bones, and lots of tender loving care. Over time, Izzie realized that her mom’s outings were temporary, and she became more confident.
A Perfect Pair
Rachel reassures Izzie daily that she is loved just the way she is. “The one thing I always want her to know and want her to feel, especially when I first got her, is that no matter what kind of dog she is, if she’s gonna be friendly or if she was gonna be aggressive, if she’s annoying, if she has allergy problems, no matter what I signed up for, I’m going to take care of her,” Rachel told Cuddle Buddies.
Together, Rachel and Izzie break all stereotypes about Pitbulls. Once an overlooked shelter dog, Izzie now has a whole new life and the best mom in the world.
