The first decade of Chico’s life was marked by loneliness. Adopted by a rural North Carolina family over ten years ago, the pit bull spent his days locked up in a small, dirt-filled yard cluttered with rubbish, deprived of companionship and care.
According to The Dodo, Chico’s heartbreaking situation caught the attention of neighbor Gricel Guerrero, who tried to address the neglect with his owners.
“I told them the dog needed vet care and regular walks, but they always claimed he was fine. They insisted he was too naughty and aggressive towards other dogs to be unchained,” Guerrero shared with The Dodo.
“Every time I saw him abandoned out there, it broke my heart, but I felt helpless,” she continued. “Until one day, I decided enough was enough.”
Guerrero began contacting rescue organizations to find help for Chico, but many were either too far away or unwilling to assist. Finally, Diva’s Safe Haven & Thrift agreed to take him in. With a new home lined up, Guerrero approached Chico’s owners about surrendering him. After a brief conversation, the family agreed, and the rescue picked him up that very day.
Thanks to Guerrero’s persistence, Chico is now receiving the critical medical care he needs. He was found to be mostly deaf, and doctors also discovered several tumors and arthritis in his back legs. Chico will spend his remaining days at Diva’s, where he welcomes new puppies and plays with the staff.
This change in environment has been warmly embraced by Chico. The staff at Diva’s adore their new addition and note that despite a decade of neglect, Chico remains a sweet and gentle soul.
