Calista

Species
Dog

My pet was
adopted (usually from a shelter or rescue)

From what organization or individual was your pet adopted/rescued/purchased
Mayday Pit Bull Rescue & Advocacy

How does this photo represent the theme – Life is Better Together?
Calista was found by a police officer wandering the streets in Arizona and was presumed to be another victim of dog fighting. After he brought her to the county shelter, the staff began networking and Mayday Pit Bull Rescue & Advocacy agreed to take her. She went straight from the shelter to the emergency veterinarian. Her ears were wounded and the remaining tissue was infected and decaying. She was emaciated and dehydrated. Her body was covered in ticks and old scars. Despite this, her eyes were filled with hope and life so we named her Calista, which means most beautiful. She tested positive for just about every tick borne disease including, ehrlichiosis, babesiosis, and anaplasmosis. She needed multiple surgeries for her ears and extensive medical treatment to fight the diseases. Today, Calista has overcome her physical wounds and continues to heal her emotional ones. She enjoys sleeping on the couch, long walks anywhere, eating anything possible, and snuggling on top of whoever (2- or 4-legged) is near. Her favorite snuggle buddy is her big brother Zazu (brindle), because he lets her lay right on top of him...reminding us life IS better TOGETHER!