The Unexpected Hello from a Shelter Pit Bull That Stopped Me in My Tracks
When I first saw her, I knew I had to spend some time with this little brindle-colored pit bull. There’s just something about pitties that pulls me in—especially when they’re as sweet and happy as Poppy. I wasn’t planning on sitting down with her at the shelter, but when she waved at me with that little paw, I knew we needed to figure out what was going on.
A Curious Paw
At first glance, I couldn’t tell if her paw was injured or if she was born with it like that. She’s not putting any weight on it, but she also doesn’t seem to be in pain. It’s kind of dangling, and it might be a deformity or an old injury. Regardless, it doesn’t slow her down one bit—she’s full of energy, wagging her tail like crazy and smiling at everyone.
It’s heartbreaking to see dogs like Poppy in the shelter because I know that her paw might be a reason people pass her by. Even though it doesn’t affect her spirit, some people want what they think is a “perfect” dog. But to me, Poppy is perfect just the way she is.
The Shelter Environment
Poppy’s been at Animal Friends of the Valleys in Wildomar, CA, for about three weeks now. She was dropped off at night drop, which is a safe way for people to bring in dogs after hours. While it might seem cold, the night drop is a good thing for dogs like Poppy who are found on the streets and need a safe place to stay.
What makes this even more challenging is that the shelter is close to a California wildfire. The dogs can sense the stress in the air—the ash, the orange sky, and the smell of smoke all add to the tension. It’s hard enough for shelter dogs to deal with being abandoned or lost, and the fires just make it worse. You can feel the anxiety among the animals, but Poppy? She’s still wagging her tail and looking for treats.
Poppy’s Journey to Recovery
We’re still figuring out what’s going on with Poppy’s paw. Shelters like this one often don’t have the budget for extensive medical care, and most don’t have a vet on staff. They did a health check, and since she’s not in pain, she’s been put on the dog walking program. Even though her paw isn’t functioning like it should, Poppy’s full of energy and joy.
What makes dogs like Poppy extra special is their ability to move past whatever challenges they’ve faced. Whether she was born with this condition or it happened later, she doesn’t let it define her. That’s what makes her a “perfect” dog in my eyes.
A Chance for a New Beginning
The sad reality is that dogs like Poppy are less likely to get adopted because people see her paw and think something’s wrong with her. But I see something different—I see a brave, happy dog who just needs someone to love her as she is.
If you’re part of a rescue organization or know someone who might want to give Poppy a second chance, please share her story. She deserves a loving home, and I know there’s someone out there who will see her for the special girl she is.
Let’s give Poppy the love and chance she deserves.
