Missouri Neighborhood Unites to Rescue Abandoned Puppy Trio and Find Forever Homes
Last month, residents in a Missouri neighborhood spotted a young puppy with patchy skin wandering around alone. Concerned for the pup’s well-being, they provided food and water while hoping to find her owner.
However, as the days passed and her condition worsened, they feared she was abandoned and contacted Stray Rescue of St. Louis (SRSL) for help.
According to SRSL’s Facebook post, the concerned neighbors noticed the pup’s skin was deteriorating but didn’t know how to assist her. Her skin appeared as though it was burning.
The SRSL team quickly arrived and found the mange-afflicted puppy, soon to be named Devonna, on a nearby property. As they prepared to take her to safety, two more emerged from the same yard.
The post described how the three dogs had been living surrounded by fencing in an outdoor pool. The other two puppies seemed to ask, “What about us?” with their similarly crusty pink skin.
Unable to ignore the plight of the additiona the SRSL staff spoke with the property owner and left with all three travelers, Devonna and her new friends, Portia and Rowland.
As they headed to the shelter, Devonna remained restless, struggling to sleep peacefully due to her discomfort.
SRSL shared their heartbreak over Devonna’s troubles but remained hopeful about her recovery, despite the anticipated lengthy treatment.
At the SRSL clinic, veterinary experts diagnosed all three dogs with demodex mange, a treatable but non-contagious condition. Devonna’s case was more severe, indicating an extended healing process compared to Portia and Rowland.
“Devonna’s recovery will take longer due to the severity of her condition,” SRSL posted on Facebook. “Her bravery through this challenge is commendable.”
After a week of receiving regular medicated baths, Devonna was stable enough to transition to a foster home, where she could continue treatment in a loving, quiet environment.
On February 16, Devonna was welcomed by her caring foster mom, marking the start of a new chapter in her healing journey.
With continued dedicated care, her caregivers anticipated seeing her coat return to its full glory, similar to Portia’s and Rowland’s progress.
“We cherish seeing Devonna enjoy her rest and mend,” SRSL shared on Facebook. “Her coat will soon be vibrant and stunning.”
Within a month of foster care, Devonna’s coat gleamed beautifully, and during a routine check-up, her transformation left the SRSL team in awe.
“Her recovery is remarkable!” SRSL noted on Facebook. “Her colors, from her brindle face to her white toe tips, are just breathtaking.”
Although Devonna’s past and how she became ill remain unclear, her survival and newfound health have filled the SRSL team with joy.
Now over a month since her rescue, Devonna is prepared for adoption. The SRSL team is enthusiastic about finding her a family that will provide the love and care she’s always deserved.
“Devonna would fit well into most homes,” said Natalie Thomson, SRSL’s chief communications officer, to The Dodo. “She adores people and other animals alike.”
