Los Angeles’ devastating wildfire has left a huge void in our hearts. People lost their houses. Families lost their loved ones. And, even pets, our faithful four-legged companions, lost places they once called homes.
Manzanita, a teeny-tiny puppy with neurological issues, is one such example. After starting a beautiful journey with her second adoptive family, she was surrendered to a California shelter. Her family didn’t have a choice but to leave her there in her best interest.
The home as Manzanita knew it no longer existed. Now, everything she had was a blur of memories.
Tragic Turn Of Events
Upon arriving at Pasadena Humane, in California, Manzanita’s family was forced to say one last goodbye to their pup. Instead of caring for their pup, they needed to focus on rebuilding everything that went away in the wildlife.
“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.
To make things worse, Manzanita, the newly-surrendered dog, was experiencing some neurological difficulties. Her condition required immediate vet attention and her caregivers started a fundraiser via CUDDLY.
The first few vet exams yielded no results. Her condition remained a mystery. According to the vets, her neurological difficulties were linked to a virus she was exposed to in-utero.
The good news was – Manzanita’s condition wasn’t permanent.
She was transferred to Love Leo Rescue, another California rescue, and the new team of rescuers was more than happy to help. They found a nice foster home for Manzanita where she showed significant signs of improvement.
Manzanita began to exhibit her cuddly personality. She absolutely loved people and other dogs, making her an ideal adoption candidate.
“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 she know that a miraculous turn of events was awaiting her…
Miraculous Outcome
On February 10th, 2025, Love Leo Rescue posted an amazing update: Manzanita has found her forever home.
Although it seemed like a long shot, Manzanita’s story touched many hearts in no time, given her neurological condition. And, it also touched the hearts of her first family who lived on the other side of the country.
They decided to reach out and meet her, but that wasn’t it.
Soon after they reunited with Manzanita, it was resolved – she was a keeper!
“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 heartbreaks in her recent past, Manzanita is finally in the right place. Hopefully, from now on, she’ll never have to experience another one again!