Mallory Mclemore of Bluff City Veterinary Specialists recalled, “All you could smell was gas.”
“She was burnt and covered in diesel fuel… It confirmed she was set on fire via witness statements,” Ginger Natoli, founder of Tails of Hope Dog Rescue, told Newsweek. “We have obtained ring cam footage from a neighbor that also shows her running in a ball of flames.”
Riona’s ear was burned off, but her left eye was saved through an emergency medical response. Tails of Hope Dog Rescue took her in and provided her with medical care at Bluff City Veterinary Specialists. She received daily full body wraps to protect her burned skin.
As Riona’s story spread, donations and gifts poured in from supporters who followed her progress.
Meanwhile, a 43-year-old named Quishon Brown was arrested for allegedly setting Riona on fire. He faced charges of misdemeanor assault and two felonies, including aggravated cruelty to animals and setting fire to personal property. And the case is pending trial.
According to Natoli, “Our goal was to get her a forever home, and that’s exactly what we found.” Riona’s new family includes other dogs to play with, children, a spacious yard, and caregivers with medical experience who understand her injuries.
As Tails of Hope conveyed, Riona’s story is far from over—it’s a new beginning. Their Facebook post stated, “We have all been a part of this miracle, our ‘warrior’ girl.”
Reminding us that animal rescues are a continuous effort, Tails of Hope shared that right after Riona left for her new home, they welcomed another rescue dog who had suffered burns. “There is always another in need,” they emphasized, underscoring the ongoing nature of their work.
While Riona’s past was marked by a dreadful ordeal, her future is looking brighter as she embarks on this new chapter in her life.
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