Riona endured a horrific incident when she was deliberately set on fire by her owner. After a year of intense recovery, she is now heading to her new home, marking a remarkable turn of events.
The cruelty inflicted upon dogs is truly unimaginable. Riona, a gentle pitbull mix, suffered immensely after being intentionally set ablaze by her owner last year. Almost precisely a year later, she is finally finding solace in her new home.
@justice4riona Humans covered her in gas and set her on fire. She was running down the street covered in flames. Yet all she wants to do is to love on everybody! Share her story! #justice4riona #tailsofhopedogrescue #dogsoftiktok #dogrescue #shareherstory ♬ Surrender – Natalie Taylor
In June of the previous year, residents in Nutbush, Tennessee witnessed the shocking sight of Riona, engulfed in flames, running down the street. The unmistakable scent of gas revealed the deliberate nature of the heinous act.
Mallory Mclemore from Bluff City Veterinary Specialists recounted, “All you could smell was gas.” Ginger Natoli, founder of the Tails of Hope Dog Rescue, confirmed the intentional act through witness statements and ring cam footage showing Riona in flames.
Despite losing an ear, Riona’s left eye was saved through emergency medical response. Tails of Hope Dog Rescue took her in, and she received extensive medical care at Bluff City Veterinary Specialists, including twice-daily full body wraps for skin protection.
Riona’s story went viral on TikTok, garnering millions of views and widespread sympathy. The pitbull mix underwent a series of skin grafts to treat fourth-degree burns, displaying resilience and good spirits throughout her recovery.
Quishon Brown, the alleged perpetrator, faces charges of misdemeanor assault and two felonies—aggravated cruelty to animals and setting fire to personal property. The case is awaiting trial.
Riona’s journey to recovery continued with support from Tails of Hope and donations from sympathizers. The dog’s story also contributed to the passing of a new animal cruelty bill in Tennessee.
After months of gradual improvement, a heartening update emerged: almost a year after the harrowing incident, Riona is finally on her way to her new forever home. Tails of Hope organized a ten-hour road trip to facilitate her transition.
Natoli expressed satisfaction, stating, “Our goal was to get her a forever home, and that’s exactly what we found.” Riona’s new home offers companionship with other dogs, interaction with children, a spacious yard, and a family with medical experience understanding her injuries.
Tails of Hope emphasized that Riona’s story is just beginning, marking a miraculous turnaround for their “warrior” girl. Despite this positive outcome, they acknowledged the ongoing need for rescue efforts, as they took in another burn victim immediately after Riona left for her new home.
While Riona’s past was marked by unthinkable cruelty, the inspiring update of her journey to a loving home brings hope and joy. Share this uplifting story to spread positivity and support! ❤️🐾
