Pit Bulls are natural-born cuddlers—they just need the chance to prove it!
Unfortunately, many people don’t see them that way, leading to countless pitties being overlooked in shelters, left behind, and at risk of euthanasia.
Izzie was one of those dogs.
Brought to the shelter as a stray, she spent what felt like an eternity waiting for a loving family to choose her. But time and time again, she was passed over.
Until one day, everything changed.
A New Beginning
Rachel, a devoted Pittie lover from California, had just lost her fourth dog and was searching for another companion to shower with love.
When her friend Julie, a volunteer at Desert Dog Project in Arizona, texted her about Izzie’s situation, Rachel didn’t hesitate.
At the shelter, Izzie—formerly known as Gredill—had spent time in isolation due to a sinus infection, itchy skin, and a severe ear infection.
Despite these struggles, Rachel saw something special in her.
Without a second thought, she asked Julie to finalize the adoption. They met halfway, and just like that, Izzie’s life changed forever.
No longer facing an uncertain fate at the shelter, she finally had a home of her own.
But adjusting to life as a house dog wasn’t easy.
Finding Comfort in a Plush Companion
Moving into an apartment in Beverly Hills was a completely new experience for Izzie.
At first, she was overwhelmed, unsure of how to navigate her new world.
But then, Rachel found the perfect way to help her settle in—a plush cow toy that looked just like her!
Though Izzie enjoyed all of her toys, she was especially drawn to this one.
Maybe it was the brindle markings or the pink ears that reminded her of herself, but that plushie quickly became her source of comfort.
With her favorite toy by her side, Izzie slowly transformed.
She embraced her new home, claimed every pillow and bed as her own, and stepped into her role as the princess of the house.
And life as a Beverly Hills pup had its perks—rides in a convertible, delicious pup cups, and daily adventures with her new mom!
Overcoming Separation Anxiety
Despite her newfound happiness, one challenge remained—separation anxiety.
Each time Rachel left the house, Izzie panicked, fearing she had been abandoned again.
Determined to help her feel safe, Rachel introduced peanut butter lick mats, chew bones, and plenty of reassurance.
With time, patience, and love, Izzie learned that Rachel always came back. She grew more confident, knowing she was truly home.
A Love That Breaks Stereotypes
Rachel is committed to showing Izzie every day just how much she is loved—exactly as she is.
“The one thing I always want her to know is that no matter what kind of dog she is—friendly, shy, annoying, allergic—I signed up to take care of her, and I always will,” Rachel told Cuddle Buddies.
Together, they’re proving the world wrong about Pit Bulls. Once an overlooked shelter dog, Izzie now has the best life—and the best mom—she could ever ask for.