People say all the time that appearances should not be the thing that decides someone’s worth, yet that is exactly how so many dogs get overlooked.
If a pup does not look healthy enough, polished enough, or ordinary enough at first glance, people often move on without giving them a real chance.
Shelters see this happen far too often. Some dogs arrive injured, some look sick, and some simply appear different from what people expect. Instead of being met with patience and compassion, they are dismissed before anyone takes the time to see who they really are.
What gets missed in those moments is the most important part. Behind every unusual face is a dog with a heart, a personality, and a deep desire to be loved.
That was true for this little dog.
More than anything, this pup just wanted the chance to keep going and to finally know what it felt like to be cared for.
Meet Luna
A rescue group in California captured the attention of many after sharing the story of Luna, a Pit Bull puppy who had been surrendered at only seven weeks old. Her facial deformity made eating almost impossible, and breathing was a struggle.
Her condition at the shelter was heartbreaking. Luna had both a broken jaw and a fractured skull, and because of her medical complications, she was scheduled for euthanasia that same day.
Thankfully, Cage to Couch, a nonprofit rescue in California, stepped in and refused to let her story end like that. They acted immediately and saved her life.
At The Shelter
Mary Pryor, who works with the rescue, explained that Luna had never learned to breathe through her mouth. Eating caused panic, and fainting became a regular part of her daily life.
The team at Cage to Couch, together with the University Veterinary Center, began providing the intensive care she needed.
While Luna still has a long medical journey ahead, Pryor is optimistic that someone will look past her challenges and recognize the sweet, loving pup she truly is.
“Luna had a serious nasal infection that required hospitalization, and had a hard time breathing, causing her to not eat and to faint. She has a hole in her mouth up into her nasal cavity [a cleft palate] that will need to be surgically repaired. Food and bacteria enter where they shouldn’t, and she has a constant nasal infection,” Pryor said in an interview.
Because Luna is still young, her surgery has been postponed until her jaw grows more stable. She has already lost many teeth, so the team wants to wait before taking that next step.
For now, she remains on medication and under close supervision.
Even with all their support, some nights are still frightening.
When Luna is unable to breathe properly, she becomes overwhelmed and panicked. The staff learned to calm her by gently placing a finger in her mouth to help keep it open until she can settle down and rest.
“I don’t want to exaggerate her suffering, but Luna does have some real struggles with her deformity. She sounds like a raptor and can panic about breathing, is a very messy eater, and she can’t really chew so she gobbles instead. We try to get the food to go right down and not go up through the hole in her mouth,” Pryor added.
Still A Happy Pup
Despite everything, Luna continues to be full of joy. She loves to run around, explore, and greet every new friend she meets.
Her foster home includes three other dogs, including two blind senior Beagles and one pup who is fighting cancer. She enjoys their company, but she still wishes for a forever family of her own.
“She would do well in a home with another dog or two, and she’s also great with cats. A home with a fenced-in yard would be nice, but she is learning to walk on leash and is a quick learner. We’re working on basic commands now, too,” Pryor stated.
Pryor is saddened by the way people judge Luna, not only because of her physical challenges but also due to her breed.
“We’re determined she gets well trained and continues to be socialized with other dogs, as we’re aware of the fear-based reaction people can have towards pitties. With her slightly askew face, it could be tough for Luna,” she concluded.
Luna’s journey is far from over, but one thing is certain. She is destined to find someone who will see her beauty and strength. And when that day comes, she will finally have the life she has always deserved.
Wishing you all the happiness in the world, Luna.