When a frail dog arrived at a county animal shelter in Texas, staff immediately noticed her alarming condition. Her skin cracked and festered with infection, and a strange, vibrant purple substance coated her entire body. At first glance, it looked like she had been painted, burned, or marked deliberately.
But no matter the cause, one thing was clear—she needed urgent help.
The rescue group This Is Houston responded right away. Volunteers rushed to the shelter, recognizing the emergency. They named the dog Violet, inspired by the hue of her damaged skin, and brought her straight to an emergency vet for lifesaving care.
Uncovering the Truth Behind the Purple Stain
Veterinarians discovered that the purple substance wasn’t an act of cruelty—but a desperate attempt at treatment. It was a livestock antiseptic typically used on cows and other farm animals. It appeared her previous caretaker had tried to cure her mange with the only remedy they had, unaware of how to properly help her.
“She was in really rough shape,” said Tara Hall, a board member with This Is Houston told The Dodo. “But the purple wasn’t the worst of it. Her skin was raw, and she clearly had been suffering for some time.”
A Foster Mom Steps In
When Bri, a longtime foster caregiver with This Is Houston, saw Violet’s intake photo, she knew immediately she had to help.
“I don’t know why, but I was just like, ‘I have got to be that dog’s foster mom,’” Bri said. She welcomed Violet into her home as soon as she was medically cleared.
Violet was still weak and vulnerable. With no fur to keep her warm, she shivered constantly. Bri gently dressed her in soft pajamas, giving her the comfort and warmth she needed.
“She was cold because she had no hair,” Bri explained. “So I immediately put pajamas on her.”
Wrapped snugly and safe, Violet finally relaxed. She curled up and fell into a deep sleep, her first moment of peace in a long time.
The Healing Power of Care and Compassion
Over the next few weeks, Bri poured her heart into Violet’s recovery. She gave her regular medicated baths, applied coconut oil to soothe her irritated skin, and kept her bundled in cozy pajamas. Slowly, the purple hue faded, and new fur began to sprout.
“She’s feeling better and is definitely enjoying being spoiled and taken care of now,” Hall added.
With time, Violet’s affectionate personality began to shine. She grew especially fond of Bri’s own pittie, enjoying the simple companionship she had missed for so long.
“She’s a lot happier now, I can tell,” Bri said. “And she just loves to cuddle. She’ll nuzzle herself like a little squirrel in my arms.”
Ready for a New Beginning
Violet is still healing, but her transformation is already remarkable. She’s no longer the terrified, trembling pup who arrived at the shelter. She’s a survivor—hopeful, affectionate, and ready for a future filled with love.
“She deserves the world,” Bri said. “And I know the right home is out there for her.”
While she continues her medical treatment, Violet is now open for adoption. Just a year and a half old, she’s looking for a forever family who will give her the comfort, stability, and love she’s only just begun to know.
