Rescued Dog Transforms From 'Skin and Bones' After Being Dumped on Street

Dumped on the side of the road at just over a year old, Peyton the dog was lying in a puddle when she was scooped up by a nearby rescue. Today in a heartwarming twist, she is living her best life as part of a loving family.

"She was a stray that was found dumped along the side of the road," Peyton's owner Lesa Stewart told Newsweek. "She was lying in a puddle in the rain. They told me she was about 30 pounds, skin and bones, and nails were overgrown and curled."

New Beginnings Animal Rescue, in Mississippi, rescued the starving and cold Peyton from the roadside and took her in where she was given love, care and medical support.

A Labrabull, she is a mix of American pit bull terrier and Labrador retriever. Known for their sweet-natured and loyal personalities, the Labrabull, although not recognized by the American Kennel Club, has become a popular breed.

Sometimes referred to as a "designer breed," they are sadly often found in shelters as a result of irresponsible breeding.

It was while scrolling online that Stewart stumbled on Peyton, and she said it was love at first sight.

"As soon as I saw her amazing eyes on my computer screen, I was in love and immediately sent her bio to my husband stating I want to adopt her," she said.

Each year 6.3 million pets enter U.S. shelters, which is an average of 17,260 a day, according to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals. The number of dogs and cats taken in by pet shelters hit 46,807 during January 2023, an increase of 1,744 compared with January 2022, the 24Pet 'Shelter Watch Report' found. Around 920,000 surrendered animals are euthanized every year. Shelters are striving to minimize euthanasia rates by promoting adoption campaigns, spaying and neutering programs, and behavior rehabilitation.

But living in Northeast Lancaster County, Pennsylvania, they were quite a way from the shelter where Peyton was currently living.

But Stewart explained that the rescue was more than happy to assist. "They were wonderful to work with and her foster mom personally drove her to us in Pennsylvania rather than crate her for transport," she explained.

Named for Stewart's favorite quarterback Peyton Manning, Peyton brings joy to the family even after such a heartbreaking start in life.

"She has such a loving disposition even after what she's been through. She is our bed bug and she loves to give kisses and cuddle," said Stewart. "She enjoys meeting new people and is a great playmate with our grandchildren. She is very smart. I adore her beautiful markings, eyes, and her head tilt when we talk to her."

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