After a year of recovery from being set on fire, Riona the pitbull mix is finally heading to her forever home with a loving family.The cruelty some people show toward pets is truly appalling. Last year, a sweet puppy named Riona suffered unimaginable pain when her owner set her on fire.
Now, nearly a year later, Riona is finally moving into her new home, bringing hope and healing after that horrific event.
Riona, a pitbull mix, was seen running down a street in Nutbush, Tennessee, last June, engulfed in flames. Horrified locals watched as the smell of gasoline filled the air, confirming the fire had been set intentionally.
All you could smell was gas,” said Mallory Mclemore from Bluff City Veterinary Specialists, as she recounted the incident to Memphis Commercial Appeal.
“She was severely burned and soaked in diesel fuel. Witness statements verified that she was set on fire,” Ginger Natoli, founder of Tails of Hope Dog Rescue, told Newsweek. Natoli also mentioned the existence of security camera footage showing Riona running while on fire.Riona’s story quickly went viral, thanks to a TikTok video that garnered millions of views. The world watched in shock, but also with compassion, as they followed Riona’s journey of recovery.
“She always wags her tail,” Mclemore shared. “That’s what makes it even more heartbreaking. She’s just so sweet, and for someone to hurt her like this—it’s unimaginable. She loves everyone.”
Throughout Riona’s recovery, Tails of Hope provided regular updates, and kind-hearted supporters donated money and gifts to help the resilient dog heal.
Meanwhile, 43-year-old Quishon Brown was arrested in connection with the attack on Riona. He faces multiple charges, including misdemeanor assault, aggravated cruelty to animals, and setting fire to personal property. His trial is still pending.Months passed, and with time and care, Riona’s condition improved. Recently, nearly a year after her traumatic ordeal, a heartwarming update was shared: Riona is finally going to her new forever home.
Tails of Hope announced a ten-hour road trip to bring Riona to her new family. “Riona’s journey isn’t ending,” they wrote on Facebook. “In fact, it’s just beginning. We’ve all played a part in this miracle—our warrior girl.”
It’s heartbreaking to think about what this sweet dog went through, but a year later, Riona is finally getting the love and home she deserves!
