In 2013, a grey and white Pit Bull Terrier mix named Max was surrendered to a high-kill shelter in the Los Angeles area. Despite his loving demeanor and pleas from the shelter staff, no one seemed to want to adopt him.
Max was scheduled to be euthanized, but he cheated fate and was rescued by a non-profit organization called Love Leo Rescue.
Max’s story doesn’t end there, though. In fact, it was just the beginning of a challenging journey filled with love, hope, and incredible strength.
Love Leo Rescue
Love Leo Rescue is a non-profit, volunteer-run organization that saves dogs from high-kill shelters and places them in loving homes. The organization was founded by Sasha Abelson, who named it after her beloved dog Leo.
Love Leo Rescue is dedicated to rescuing dogs that are at risk of euthanasia due to overpopulation, lack of space, or other issues.
The organization provides the dogs with medical care, socialization, and training, and then places them in foster or permanent homes.
When Max arrived at Love Leo Rescue, he was in bad shape. He had severe skin allergies, an ear infection, and a urinary tract infection. He was also underweight and lacked muscle tone.
Max’s Rehabilitation
The Love Leo Rescue team set to work rehabilitating Max. They took him to the vet and got him on a treatment plan for his skin and ear infections. They also put him on a diet and exercise program to help him gain weight and build muscle.
Max’s foster mom, Janine Guido, helped him adjust to life in a home. She introduced him to the other dogs she was fostering and taught him basic commands and manners.
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As Max’s health improved, he started to show his true personality. He was goofy, affectionate, and incredibly loyal. Janine knew that Max was special and decided to adopt him herself.
Max’s Legacy
Max went on to become a therapy dog, visiting hospitals, senior centers, and schools to bring joy and comfort to people in need.
He also became an ambassador for Pit Bull Terriers, proving that these dogs are loving and loyal despite their negative reputation.
In October of 2017, Max passed away from lymphoma. He was only six years old, but in his short life, he made a big impact.
Max’s legacy lives on through Love Leo Rescue, which continues to save dogs from high-kill shelters and find them loving homes.
The Importance of Rescue Organizations
Max’s story is a testament to the importance of rescue organizations like Love Leo Rescue. Without the tireless efforts of volunteers and donors, dogs like Max would never get a second chance.
Rescue organizations provide life-saving medical care, socialization, and training to dogs that have been abandoned, abused, or neglected. They also educate the public about responsible pet ownership and advocate for animal welfare.
If you’re considering adding a pet to your family, consider adopting from a rescue organization. By doing so, you’ll be giving a loving, deserving dog a second chance at life, just like Max.
