Riona’s story is a testament to both the unimaginable cruelty some humans inflict on animals and the unwavering spirit of a sweet dog and the people dedicated to her recovery. Last June, in Nutbush, Tennessee, Riona, a pitbull mix, became the victim of a horrific act – she was set on fire by her owner.
The sight of Riona running down the street engulfed in flames sent shockwaves through the community. The smell of gas confirmed the deliberate nature of the attack. Thankfully, witnesses called for help, and Riona was rushed to Bluff City Veterinary Specialists.
Despite the severity of her injuries – fourth-degree burns all over her body and a lost ear – Riona’s fighting spirit shone through. Mallory Mclemore, a veterinary specialist, described her as “always wagging her tail,” highlighting her unwavering sweetness.
Tails of Hope Dog Rescue took Riona in, providing her with the care and love she desperately needed. Twice-daily full-body wraps soothed her burned skin, while extensive medical treatment addressed her injuries. Riona’s story, shared on TikTok, resonated with millions, garnering global support.
The road to recovery was long. Riona underwent a series of skin grafts, but her spirit remained unbroken. Newsweek quoted Ginger Natoli, founder of Tails of Hope, describing Riona’s positive attitude: “She’s actually kind of cute with one ear. It makes her personality cute.”
Meanwhile, the legal wheels turned. The perpetrator, 43-year-old Quishon Brown, was arrested for aggravated cruelty to animals and setting fire to personal property. His case awaits trial.
Riona’s story wasn’t just about her individual healing; it had a wider impact. News outlets reported that her case helped pass a new animal cruelty bill in Tennessee.
After months of dedicated care, the wait was finally over. Almost a year after the horrific incident, Tails of Hope announced heartwarming news: Riona was going home! A ten-hour road trip awaited, but the destination was a dream come true – a forever home filled with love, a big yard to play in, and a family with medical expertise to continue caring for her needs.
“Riona’s story is not coming to an end, in fact it is really just beginning,” Tails of Hope wrote on Facebook. Riona’s journey is a powerful reminder of the enduring strength of the human-animal bond and the unwavering dedication of animal rescue organizations. As Riona embarks on this new chapter, Tails of Hope continues their vital work, welcoming another burn victim into their care. There may be another story of resilience waiting to be written, and thanks to their dedication, there will be someone there to help write it.
