It’s truly heartbreaking to see the cruelty some people inflict on animals. One such tragic case is that of Riona, a sweet dog who suffered unimaginable pain when her owner set her on fire last year. After a year of recovery, Riona is finally getting a fresh start in a new home.
The incident occurred last June in Nutbush, Tennessee, where witnesses were horrified to see Riona, a pitbull mix, running down the street engulfed in flames. The distinct smell of gasoline confirmed that this was no accident—someone had intentionally set her ablaze.
Mallory McLemore, a veterinarian from Bluff City Veterinary Specialists, shared with the Memphis Commercial Appeal, “The only thing you could smell was gas.” Ginger Natoli, founder of Tails of Hope Dog Rescue, added in an interview with Newsweek, “She was burned and had diesel fuel all over her. Witnesses said she was set on fire. We even received footage from a neighbor’s ring camera showing her running while on fire.”
Despite the horrific ordeal, Riona survived, though she lost an ear. Fortunately, doctors managed to save her left eye during the emergency treatment. Rescued by Tails of Hope Dog Rescue, Riona received critical medical care at Bluff City Veterinary Specialists. Her recovery involved daily full-body wraps to protect her burned skin as it healed.
Riona’s story quickly gained attention, with a TikTok video going viral and garnering millions of views, touching the hearts of people around the globe. Her recovery was long and painful, requiring multiple skin grafts for the severe burns covering much of her body. Despite the adversity, Riona remained resilient and positive, endearing herself to everyone who learned of her journey.
“She’s just always wagging her tail,” McLemore remarked. “That’s what makes it even worse. Not that it would ever be OK, but for her to be so sweet and for somebody to do something like this to her. She just loves everybody.”
Natoli added, “She’s actually kind of cute with one ear. It makes her personality even more endearing.”
Tails of Hope kept Riona’s supporters updated through social media, where many sent donations and gifts to assist with her care. Meanwhile, the man accused of setting Riona on fire, 43-year-old Quishon Brown, was arrested and charged with assault, animal cruelty, and arson, with his case still pending trial.
In a silver lining to this awful story, Riona’s ordeal has helped push forward new legislation in Tennessee aimed at strengthening animal cruelty laws. Her story has inspired action that will help protect other animals in the future.
As time went by, Riona slowly but surely recovered, and now, nearly a year after that horrific incident, she is ready to move into her new home. Tails of Hope announced that Riona will soon embark on a ten-hour road trip to meet her new family.
“We wanted to find her a permanent home, and we did just that,” Natoli told the Commercial Appeal. “Riona now has other dogs to play with, kids to run around with, a spacious yard, and a family that understands her medical history and past injuries.”
Tails of Hope celebrated Riona’s new beginning on Facebook, writing, “Her story is far from over—it’s just beginning. We’ve all been a part of this miracle, and she truly is our warrior girl.”
The organization also reminded supporters that the work of animal rescue never truly ends. Immediately after finding Riona a new home, they took in another dog suffering from burns, emphasizing that “there is always another animal in need.” Now, they are beginning the journey of healing and hope with another deserving dog.
Riona’s story is a powerful testament to resilience and compassion. It’s devastating that she had to endure such cruelty, but one year later, we celebrate that she’s headed to her forever home, surrounded by love and care.
@justice4riona One year of unbelievable ✨growth✨ #justice4riona #tailsofhopedogrescue #pitbullsoftiktok ♬ The Climb – Miley Cyrus