In the summer of 2023, a sweet tan-and-white pit bull named Patience finally got the news she'd been waiting for: she was adopted. After a long stay at her New Jersey shelter, Patience was ready to start a new chapter with a loving family.
But heartbreak struck a year later. In November 2024, Patience was found wandering the streets of New Jersey — injured, alone, and scared. When she was brought back to the shelter, the hopeful spark in her eyes was gone.
Instead of running to greet visitors, Patience would hide in the corner of her kennel, her head down, facing the wall. Her emotional wounds were clear — and they broke the staff’s hearts.
Desperate to help her, the shelter posted a photo of Patience online, pleading for rescue. It didn’t take long for Special Needs Animal Rescue and Rehabilitation Northeast (SNARR Northeast) to step in.
“Sometimes you just know a dog needs you,” Maddie Weiser of SNARR Northeast told The Dodo. “Patience was one of those dogs. One look at her, and we knew we had to save her.”
SNARR Northeast quickly mobilized their network, and within just a few days, they found the perfect foster home for Patience.
On December 22, 2024, Patience’s real new beginning began. A SNARR Northeast volunteer arrived to set her free from the kennel — and Patience’s transformation was immediate.
“She was so happy!” Weiser said. “She completely changed into a different dog. She loves being close to people, snuggling, and just feeling safe and warm.”
Thanks to SNARR Northeast’s efforts, Patience spent the holiday season surrounded by love instead of loneliness.
(You can watch the heartwarming moment Patience left the shelter here.)
Now, a few weeks later, Patience is thriving. Her foster family showers her with love every day, while SNARR Northeast works closely with veterinarians to fully understand her medical needs.
Although it's impossible to know exactly what happened to her on the streets, doctors believe she suffered a spinal injury — likely from being hit by a car. She’s also been diagnosed as fully blind, with vision only directly in front of her.
“We’re still learning everything about her condition,” Weiser explained. “She’ll be seeing a neurologist soon for a more detailed exam.”
But Patience’s challenges don’t define her. Since settling into her foster home, her true personality has begun to shine — goofy, affectionate, and full of love.
“Patience has this adorable way of showing affection,” Weiser said. “She nudges your arm with her mouth to say hello. It’s her own little love language.”
It’s hard to imagine how a dog as sweet and beautiful as Patience was ever abandoned. But today, she’s not looking back. She’s too busy soaking up every joyful moment.
While SNARR Northeast awaits a full medical diagnosis before officially putting her up for adoption, Patience is living her best life with her foster family — safe, cherished, and happy.
“Patience is the sweetest, happiest, and most grateful dog you could ever meet,” Weiser said.
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To inquire about Patience, you can email info@snarrnortheast.org.
To help pets like Patience get the second chances they deserve, consider donating to SNARR Northeast here.
