Pitties are cuddle bugs – they just need a chance! Unfortunately, many do not get that opportunity, resulting in a substantial number of these lovable dogs ending up in shelters, disheartened and waiting for euthanasia. Izzie was one such dog.
After arriving at the shelter as a stray, this sorrowful pup waited and waited, overlooked by all, before her luck finally changed one day!
From Streets To A Forever Home
Rachel, a dedicated Pittie lover from California, was mourning the loss of her fourth dog and seeking a new companion. When her friend Julie, a volunteer at Desert Dog Project in Arizona, informed her about Izzie’s tough situation (who was previously named Gredill), Rachel felt pure joy.
Without hesitation, Rachel decided to adopt Izzie. In her own words: “Her shelter name was ‘Gredill,’ and she had been in isolation due to various issues, from a sinus infection to skin irritation and a terrible ear infection,” she shared on Instagram.
She asked Julia to facilitate the adoption, and soon they met halfway. Just like that, Izzie found a loving home, escaping the fear of potential euthanasia. However, Izzie had likely never been a house dog before; she was completely frozen when she first arrived at Rachel’s home.
Rachel wrote, “Gredill is now Isabelle “Izzie” Hathor Vicknair, and she’s slowly getting used to life in an apartment in Beverly Hills. I’m pretty sure she was not a house dog in her previous life.” It took her a few days to adjust to having a whole house to herself, but with a little help, Izzie learned to relax.
Gaining Confidence With Her Number-One Favorite Toy
To help Izzie feel at home, Rachel introduced her to a plushie resembling a cow, which instantly became her favorite toy. Despite Izzie enjoying all toys, this particular plush cow made her feel safe and relaxed. The resemblance was uncanny, as Izzie, with her brindle markings and pink ears, looked like her cuddly twin!
Before long, Izzie grew increasingly comfortable, eventually being crowned the princess of the house. She claimed every pillow, every bed, and Rachel turned each day into an adventure.
From riding in convertibles to enjoying delicious pup cups, Izzie embraced her new life in Beverly Hills. However, she struggled with severe separation anxiety; Rachel’s departures reminded Izzie of her past abandonment. To address this, Rachel provided peanut butter lick mats, bones, and plenty of love, gradually helping Izzie realize that her mom would always return.
Every day, Rachel reassures Izzie with her love, emphasizing that she is cherished just as she is and safe now.
As Rachel told Cuddle Buddies, “The one thing I always want her to know and feel, especially when I first got her, is that no matter what kind of dog she is, I’m going to take care of her.”
The two share countless wonderful moments together, breaking all stereotypes about Izzie’s breed wherever they go. Once an overlooked shelter dog, she now enjoys a fulfilling life with the best mom anyone could wish for!
