Last year, a pitbull mix named Riona endured unimaginable cruelty when her owner set her on fire. Witnesses in Nutbush, Tennessee saw her running down the street engulfed in flames, reeking of gasoline. Rescue workers later confirmed that she had been intentionally doused with diesel fuel and ignited.
Riona suffered severe burns, losing an ear and sustaining 4th-degree burns that required skin grafts. Despite her pain, she remained resilient, wagging her tail through her recovery. Veterinary specialist Mallory McLemore shared: “She just loves everybody. That’s what makes it worse—she’s so sweet.”
The horrific act led to the arrest of 43-year-old Quishon Brown, who faces multiple charges, including aggravated cruelty to animals.
After months of treatment and care, Riona is finally ready for her new chapter. She is traveling 10 hours to her forever home, where she will live with a loving family experienced in medical care. With children, other dogs, and a spacious yard, Riona’s future is filled with love and happiness.
This heartwarming story shows the power of compassion and the incredible resilience of animals like Riona.
