Stitch’s Happy Tail
February 7th, 2022
By Savannah Verdon, RedRover Development and Engagement Coordinator
After Miranda’s father passed away, she hit a low point unlike any other she’d suffered since being diagnosed with depression. She felt as though she was drowning in her grief and no longer knew who she was or how to function.
Scrolling aimlessly online one day, she felt the first spark of joy in months when she came across a little tan and white chihuahua being rehomed. Of all the cute photos of puppies and kittens on the internet, for some reason the image of this chihuahua grabbed her attention and wouldn’t let go. She knew deep down that they needed each other. An in-person meeting sealed the deal: The day Miranda met Stitch, they were instantly bonded, and he’s been by her side ever since.
Chihuahuas as a breed are known for two things: their fierce loyalty and their terrible teeth. Miranda did everything she could to keep up with Stitch’s dental care, including brushing, dental chews, and special mouthwash in his water. Despite all her effort, Stitch developed severe dental disease. Miranda had been saving to pay money for his treatment, but every time she got close to having enough, another emergency would set her back. Soon it reached the point where it affected his eating, breathing, and sleeping.
“I feel so very awful because he’s in so much pain he can hardly sleep at night, and I lay awake all night holding him just trying my best to soothe him. I take him everywhere, and I haven’t gone so much as one night away from him. Giving him up would be like having my leg amputated, only I would miss him more. I honestly can’t express what he means to me, just that I can’t imagine life without him. I can’t go back to that pit of lightless grief. There is no life there.”
As desperately as she wanted to get him the treatment he needed, Miranda was facing big challenges. She had been laid off due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and after needing to move unexpectedly and repair her car, she didn’t have enough left to take him to the veterinarian. Waiting to save enough money would risk Stitch experiencing long-term, potentially fatal complications.
With a RedRover Relief Urgent Care grant, Stitch was able to receive the dental treatment he needed before it progressed further. Now that he’s feeling better, this sweet little pup is spunky again, and the light has returned to Miranda’s life.
Our compassionate FurEver Friends are the reason that pets like Stitch are still here today with their families. Thank you to our supporters for helping us change the lives of animals and the people who love them! We are grateful for the second chances that you make possible. ❤
