Rally For Ryder: Abused Pit Bull Still In Critical Condition

Help us fight animal cruelty

Many of you have seen the media reports and asked us for an update on the heartbreaking story of Ryder, a 2-year-old female pit bull who came to AHS on Monday, a victim of animal cruelty, severely emaciated and near death.

As you may have heard, Ryder was rescued by Phoenix Police officers who discovered her during a domestic disturbance call, attached to the door knob of a bedroom by a large chain. The chain was secured so tightly that only Ryder’s hind feet were able to touch the floor. Ryder had no access to water and was extremely malnourished.

Ryder was rushed to an emergency animal clinic, where she was given IV fluids and then transferred to AHS. Upon arrival, Ryder could not even walk or stand. She weighed only 28 pounds. It was truly one of the saddest sights we have ever seen.

But just like Ryder, we weren’t about to give up. Our vets immediately sprang into action, administering fluids, taking blood samples and placing Ryder on a strict feeding schedule to try to bring up her weight.

We’re happy to report that after 48 hours, Ryder has already gained nearly five pounds. This morning, she was even able to go for a short walk! Her spirits are high and she is making progress, but she is not out of the woods. Ryder is still in critical condition, and it will likely be several more weeks before we know if she will recover.

But rest assured, we are doing everything we can to save her life. We’ll continue to fight for Ryder and give her the love and care she’s never known before, and we invite you to join us.

Please visit our Rally For Ryder webpage, where we will provide regular updates via our blog, and help spread the word by sharing our Facebook and Twitter posts. You can also send virtual hugs and get-well wishes to Ryder that we will post in her kennel or sign a pledge to report animal cruelty and neglect.

We are extremely grateful for the outpouring of support we have already received from individuals around the world who are asking how they can help provide monetary support to Ryder. If you would like to make a donation to help care for the many abused and neglected animals just like Ryder who enter our doors every year, you can do so through our online donation form.

Help us Rally for Ryder. Because every pet deserves a second chance.