Just a few weeks ago, a sick dog arrived at a county shelter in Texas in heartbreaking condition. Her skin was cracked and infected, and her entire body was coated in an unusual purple substance.
When the rescue group This Is Houston learned about her, they immediately stepped in. Without hesitation, they rushed the pup to an emergency vet, determined to give her the lifesaving care she desperately needed.
Vets soon identified the purple coating — it was an antiseptic treatment typically used on farm animals like cows. It appeared that someone, likely overwhelmed and desperate, had attempted to treat the dog's mange using the product.
When Bri, a seasoned foster mom, saw the dog’s intake photo, she felt an instant connection.
“I don’t know why, but I just knew,” Bri, who asked to withhold her last name, told The Dodo. “I had to be that dog’s foster mom.”
The dog, now named Violet, was transferred to Bri’s home as soon as she was stable enough to leave the hospital. Bri immediately set to work helping her feel safe and comfortable.
“She was cold because she had no hair,” Bri said. “So I put pajamas on her right away.”
Bundled up in soft, warm pajamas, Violet finally felt secure enough to relax — and she drifted off into a deep, much-needed sleep.
Since then, Bri has been caring for Violet around the clock for three weeks. Her days are filled with medicated baths, gentle coconut oil massages, and lots of cozy cuddles.
And the results are already incredible. Violet’s fur is starting to grow back, and the purple stains are nearly gone.
“She’s feeling better and definitely enjoying being spoiled and cared for now,” said Tara Hall, a board member at This Is Houston.
But Violet’s transformation isn’t just physical — her spirit is blossoming too. Her affectionate, snuggly nature has emerged, and she loves spending time curled up next to Bri and her pittie companion.
“She’s so much happier now,” Bri said. “She loves to cuddle and will nuzzle into my arms like a little squirrel.”
Though Violet still needs time to fully heal, she’s already accepting adoption applications. At just a year and a half old, this sweet girl is ready for a forever family who will shower her with the love and security she’s been missing.
If you’re interested in adopting Violet, you can submit an application here.
To help support rescues like Violet, you can donate to This Is Houston here.
