A Memphis dog is getting her second chance at life after being set on fire in late June.
(Picture Credit: Tails of Hope Dog Rescue)Riona, a young Pit Bull mix, reached instant internet stardom after Tails of Hope Dog Rescue posted her heart-wrenching story to TikTok with the hashtag “#JusticeforRiona.” The rescue has been providing updates on her status, which has improved immensely.
@justice4riona Humans covered her in gas and set her on fire. She was running down the street covered in flames. Yet all she wants to do is to love on everybody! Share her story! #justice4riona #tailsofhopedogrescue #dogsoftiktok #dogrescue #shareherstory ♬ Surrender – Natalie Taylor
In addition to aiding in her recovery, Tails of Hope also offered a several-thousand dollar reward for information regarding the perpetrator of the crime. Today, Memphis authorities arrested the man who allegedly committed this heinous act of violence against Riona.
Road to Recovery
According to a local news station, concerned bystanders found Riona “screaming while on fire” at an intersection on June 20. They notified the police department, and animal control subsequently arrived to pick her up.
Tails of Hope picked up Riona from a Memphis Animal Shelter. Since then, the rescue has provided her with extensive care for her wounds, which stretch all the way from her face to her tail.
A Facebook post from the rescue explains that Riona had been “doused with diesel fuel” and suffered a deep cut on her neck from a cord. Tails of Hope continues to chronicle her healing on TikTok, which has garnered over 1.4 million likes.
Her big eyes peak out of her bandages, and her tail wags despite her suffering 4th-degree burns on 60 percent of her body. In a recent Facebook video, Riona, clad in green dressings and a rubber ducky poncho, walks around a fenced-in outdoor area to enjoy the rain.
Riona also has her appetite back. The rescue mentions in one TikTok video that she “doesn’t say no to a snack.”
@justice4riona Look at the strength of that girl ❤️❤️ she doesn’t say no to a snack! #justice4riona #tailsofhopedogrescue #pittiesoftiktok #dogsoftiktok ♬ Stronger (What Doesn’t Kill You) – Kelly Clarkson
How You Can Help
Riona is still in need of medical care and will most likely require special attention for the rest of her life. Tails of Hope provided several ways for good Samaritans to contribute:
- Venmo
- PayPal
- Shop their Chewy wishlist
- Shop Riona’s Amazon wishlist
We encourage you to help Riona in any way you can. If you aren’t able to assist financially, share her story.
Violence against dogs — especially bully breeds — is not uncommon. If you suspect an animal abuse, report it to authorities.
