This past weekend, an American bulldog named Frances was found in a heart-wrenching situation that was a stark contrast to the joy her birthday should have brought. Chained outside an abandoned house in Little Haiti, Miami, Frances’ story is one of resilience and hope amidst adversity.
The chain of events that led to Frances’ rescue began with an unexpected alarm. Workers renovating a nearby house accidentally triggered the security system, leading to the discovery of Frances. Claire Morera, one of the workers, spotted the emaciated pup standing on the landing of the adjacent house. Frances was in desperate condition, covered in ticks, and suffering from severe eye infections. The 5-pound chain tethered to her was a grim testament to her neglect.
Morera’s quick thinking and compassion led her to snap photos of Frances and post them on Facebook, tagging the local rescue group 100+ Abandoned Dogs of Everglades Florida. This led Jan Stenger, a dedicated volunteer for the group, to intervene.
“We were on a different rescue mission that morning,” Stenger told The Dodo. “But when we saw Frances’ location, we rushed to her aid.” Stenger and her team arrived to find Frances in what she described as “horrific” condition. Despite the challenges, the team managed to bring Frances to safety, with the chain still attached, as they didn’t have bolt cutters on hand.
Once at the animal hospital, Frances’ journey towards recovery began. Her biggest medical issues were her eyes, which were so badly infected they needed to be removed. Additionally, she was infested with thousands of ticks. Yet, amidst these challenges, Frances showed incredible resilience. She didn’t contract any diseases from the ticks and was free of heartworm disease.
Initially, Frances was placed with Stephanie Palmer, the hospital manager, but when Palmer had to leave, Stenger agreed to foster Frances. What was meant to be a temporary arrangement quickly became permanent. “Never in a million years did I think we would keep her,” Stenger said. “But Frances won our hearts, and we knew she was meant to stay.”
Today, Frances is a picture of happiness and contentment. Her new home is filled with love, and her life is a far cry from the neglect she once endured. Frances has adapted beautifully, enjoying her favorite activities like snuggling and lying on top of Stenger. “She’s a happy girl,” Stenger said. “She loves people and forgives us all for the past.”
Frances’ birthday, once marked by neglect, is now celebrated with joy and affection. Her story is a powerful reminder of the difference love and care can make in an animal’s life. Thanks to the dedicated efforts of rescuers and the kindness of her new family, Frances is thriving and embracing her new beginning.
