Los Angeles’ devastating wildfire left countless lives upended. Homes were destroyed, families were displaced, and even beloved pets were left without the homes they once knew.
Manzanita, a tiny puppy with neurological challenges, is one of these affected pets. After beginning a second life with her adoptive family, she had to be surrendered to a California shelter. Her family’s heartbreaking decision was made with her best interest in mind.
The home Manzanita had known no longer existed, leaving only a haze of memories.
Heartbreaking Circumstances
When Manzanita arrived at Pasadena Humane, in California, her family had to say a final goodbye. Instead of focusing on caring for her, they needed to rebuild their lives after the wildfire destroyed everything.
“This was incredibly difficult for them to do, but it was their only option so that they could focus on rebuilding their life, which had fallen apart within hours,” it is stated in CUDDLY’s post.
Adding to the challenge, Manzanita was experiencing neurological issues that needed immediate veterinary attention. Her caregivers launched a fundraiser via CUDDLY to cover her medical needs.
Initial veterinary exams were inconclusive, and her condition remained uncertain. Vets later determined that her neurological difficulties stemmed from a virus she was exposed to in utero.
The good news was that Manzanita’s condition was not permanent.
She was transferred to Love Leo Rescue, another California-based organization, where a new team of rescuers stepped in to help. They placed her in a foster home, where she began to show remarkable improvement.
Manzanita’s sweet and affectionate personality started to shine. She loved being around people and other dogs, making her an ideal candidate for adoption.
“She is a perfectly happy, well-adjusted, and lovely little puppy, who deserves to live a good life. She loves other dogs and enjoy sitting next to her human,” Love Leo Rescue stated on Facebook.
Little did anyone know, a miraculous turn was about to happen.
Heartwarming Resolution
On February 10th, 2025, Love Leo Rescue shared an amazing update: Manzanita had found her forever home.
Despite her neurological condition, her story quickly touched the hearts of many. It also reached her first family, who lived across the country. They decided to reconnect with her.
Once reunited, it became clear she had found the right family.
“They were in town, and they wanted to meet her. Long story short, it was a love connection. They flew back two weeks later to pick her up and now she is safe at home and very loved. No more bouncing from shelter to shelter, no more being given up because she was born a little different,” LLR wrote.
After all the hardships she faced, Manzanita finally has a stable, loving home where she can thrive without fear or uncertainty.