It is truly astonishing to witness the level of cruelty that some individuals can inflict upon dogs. Riona, a gentle pup, endured tremendous suffering when her owner callously ignited flames upon her last year.
However, almost exactly one year later, Riona is now on her way to her new residence.
In June of the previous year, residents of Nutbush, Tennessee were shocked as they witnessed Riona, a mixed-breed pitbull, running down the street engulfed in flames. The smell of gasoline made it clear that she had been intentionally set on fire.
Humans poured gasoline on her and set her ablaze. She was running down the street, covered in flames. Yet, all she wants is to shower everyone with love! Let’s share her story! #justice4riona #tailsofhopedogrescue #dogsoftiktok #dogrescue #shareherstory
“The overwhelming smell was that of gasoline,” shared Mallory Mclemore of Bluff City Veterinary Specialists with Memphis Commercial Appeal.
“She suffered burns and was covered in diesel fuel… Witness statements confirm that she was intentionally set on fire,” Ginger Natoli, founder of Tails of Hope Dog Rescue, informed Newsweek. “We have obtained surveillance footage from a neighbor that also shows her running in a ball of fire.”
Riona lost an ear due to the burns, but her left eye was saved thanks to the emergency medical response. She was taken in by Tails of Hope Dog Rescue, where she received medical treatment at Bluff City Veterinary Specialists. Her skin was protected with full-body wraps twice a day.
A TikTok video-sharing Riona’s story went viral, gaining millions of views and generating sympathy for Riona worldwide.
Riona embarked on a long journey to recovery, undergoing multiple skin grafts to treat the severe fourth-degree burns all over her body. Despite her trauma, Riona’s spirits remained high throughout her recovery.
“She always wags her tail,” said Mclemore. “That makes it even more heartbreaking, I suppose. To be so sweet and loving, and for someone to do something like this to her. She loves everyone.”
“She actually looks cute with one ear,” Natoli told the Commercial Appeal. “It adds to her charm.”
Tails of Hope continued to provide updates on Riona’s recovery, and supporters sent in donations and gifts for the dog.
Meanwhile, Quishon Brown, a 43-year-old individual, was arrested for allegedly setting Riona on fire. He faced charges of misdemeanor assault and two felonies—aggravated cruelty to animals and arson. The case is currently awaiting trial.
According to a Facebook post, Riona’s story also contributed to the passing of a new animal cruelty bill in Tennessee.
Months went by, and slowly but surely, Riona’s condition improved. And now, almost exactly one year after the horrific incident, there is an inspiring update to Riona’s story—she is finally going to her new home!
Tails of Hope announced they would embark on a ten-hour road trip to bring Riona to her forever home.
“Our goal was to find her a forever home, and that’s exactly what we did,” said Natoli. “Riona will have other dogs to play with, children to play with, a spacious yard to enjoy, and a family experienced in