12/23/2024
Aries Journey: A Story of Hope, Love, and Survival -
On August 16, 2024, a little girl named Aries was returned to The Pit Bull Pen (TPBP) at no fault of her own. Over a year after her adoption, her owners—who had loved and cared for her deeply—were heartbroken as they couldn’t determine what was wrong with her, even after multiple vet visits.
Once back at the rescue, our volunteers noticed something alarming: Aries was deteriorating rapidly. She was extremely underweight, despite eating well. She drank gallons of water, urinated excessively, and sometimes growled at nothing. Concerned, our president, Amber, was called to check on Aries. Realizing the severity of the situation, Amber took Aries home immediately for close monitoring.
The local vet examined Aries and shared devastating news: there was nothing more they could do for her. They referred us to an internal medicine vet in Spokane where a CT scan was performed. We received the diagnosis: Aries was dying from an Intra Hepatic Porto-Systemic Shunt, a severe and life-threatening condition. The only option to save her life was an expensive and complex surgery that would need to be performed at WSU Veterinary Hospital.
As a rescue running entirely on donations and grants, the cost of this surgery was daunting. But Aries had a village behind her. Volunteers and supporters rallied, raising the necessary funds through the incredible generosity of our community. Thanks to their efforts, Aries underwent surgery at WSU on October 24, 2024. If successful, it would give her the chance to live a normal life for another five + years.
The surgery was a success, and Aries came home to begin her recovery. She was thriving—eating, drinking, and enjoying life. But on November 1, 2024, she had a setback and was rushed back to WSU.
Now, for the best part of this story: Aries is doing FANTASTIC! She has gained over 10 pounds, is eating well, and is full of life. She is finally able to enjoy her days like any happy, healthy dog her age should.
Aries journey is a testament to the power of community, love, and determination. To everyone who donated, shared her story, or sent prayers and well wishes: YOU SAVED HER LIFE. Thank you for believing in Aries and for supporting The Pit Bull Pen in our mission to give every dog a fighting chance.
Aries is now medically stable and ready to transition to a long-term foster home! Her current foster has been providing exceptional medical care, but moving Aries to a new foster will create an opportunity to take in another medical dog in urgent need of a safe place. Let’s help Aries find her next loving foster home so we can continue making a difference for more dogs in need.
