My friend (whom we will call Jessica) just told me a story that blew me away, so I am sharing.

Here’s an edited version of the note I received from her:

“In November my mother was helping take care of my brother’s dog, Phoenix, and when she went to take him outside he accidentally knocked her down causing a cracked hip, which put her in the hospital where she ended up having a heart attack and passing away after surgery. After she passed my brother was so mad at the dog, he left him in 20 degree weather in the rain. Family members called me and told me about this literally 4 hours after I found out about my moms death. Further they told me that my brother was preparing him to be a fighting dog and was now threatening the dog’s life. As a result I quickly found a great foster home for him and he has been very happy, except he has a broken and infected tooth from his abuse and needs a root canal…”

Further, Jessica now lives on the West Coast and this was all happening on the East Coast and she dealt with it long distance. I am inspired by her composure and grace and the way she handled everything on the heels of her mother’s sudden passing.

I asked Jessica about her brother and whether he has other dogs, and if she was aware that she could report dog fighting to the Humane Society of the United States (HSUS) via a hotline. She replied:

“The whole thing was an awful situation. I had to take a red eye flight the day my mom passed because of all the craziness. I haven’t been in touch with my brother in years because he’s always been a bad apple. I would like the hotline number if you know it. I found out was that my dad saw him in the driveway doing what they call ‘training’ twice and made him stop but I am not sure who is involved. I just know it was Phoenix and my brother’s other dog who is now gone. Not sure where. I will investigate further. It’s devastating to even talk about and embarrassing that someone in my family has turned out this way. I will absolutely report him and his friends. It helps my grief knowing that I can help Phoenix who was a lover and not a fighter :). He has a great foster home now.”

I wanted to share this incredible story of selflessness and bravery. It’s also an opportunity for me to share some information about dog fighting:
If you suspect or know of any people engaging in dog fighting you can call: 1-877-TIP-HSUS.

I don’t usually ask my friends and readers to help, but because she is my friend, and in light of everything she’s been through, if you would consider making even a small donation to help Phoenix get the surgery he needs, I know it would help ease Jessica’s pain. She’s already hundreds of dollars out of pocket with other medical expenses for Phoenix and she and his new foster mom are reaching out for donations.

Finally, I wish to point out that so often all we notice is the “evil” in a situation. If, however, we heed Fred Rogers (aka Mr. Rogers) and “look for the helpers, you will always find someone helping.” In this case it is Jessica who acted straight from the heart.

If you have questions, please let me know. Here’s the link again in case you are able to help Phoenix.
http://gogetfunding.com/phoenix-needs-a-root-canal/