We’d like to tell you about a sweet pup named Rue, whose inspirational story was shared with us by her loving mom and Dog Tag Art pal, Stephanie. Though the early years were rough, lots of determination and love helped Rue find a new and better life. We are so glad that some of our funny pet ID tags helped Rue’s family smile through the hard times.
From Kill Shelter to Surgery
  | Rue’s story began in a high-kill shelter located in South Carolina, where she lived from September through December of 2012. Rue spent most of her days in a crate and was placed on the PTS (Put to Sleep) list three times. Before anything happened, Rue was removed and transported to a rescue facility in New York. Stephanie met Rue for the first time soon after she arrived there, and her fate, you might say, was sealed. Though Rue could barely walk and her original intake paperwork indicated she had a “lame front right leg,” Stephanie couldn't bare to leave her at the shelter, and adopted Rue into her family. Following Rue’s spay procedure, Stephanie ordered x-rays on her “lame” leg. Rue was then diagnosed with "severe chronic arthritis." Stephanie couldn’t believe that Rue was under two years old and already had arthritis, but she felt hopeful with the support of Rue’s “amazing” veterinarians and technicians. After two years of daily anti-inflammatory and pain medication, injections, laser therapies, and supplements, Rue injured her leg while playing with her sister, Sookie. This injury made it clear that amputation would be the best thing for Rue’s long-term health. Exactly two years from the day Stephanie picked up her “big ol’ pitty,” Rue’s front right leg was removed. |
“Rue was a trooper!”
| Just five hours after the removal of her leg (and part of her shoulder), Rue wiggled and wagged her way into the exam room on three legs. When it was time to go home, Rue jumped right into the car. Stephanie tried to feed her in the living room (to save her a trip to the kitchen), but Rue wouldn't have it – she walked right into the kitchen and sat at her normal eating spot! Throughout her first night of healing, Rue let out a few whimpers, but Sookie and Stephanie remained by her side the whole time. Amazed by Rue’s incredible spirit, Stephanie thought, “This is the true character of a pitbull.” |  |
Laughter is the Best Medicine
 | After Stephanie saw our “Dude, Where’s My Leg” tag, she questioned buying it. She brought it to her veterinarian and asked, “Is this okay? Too soon? Is she out of the woods?” Most of all, Stephanie did not want to “jinx” Rue’s recovery. Her vet approved, so Stephanie ordered it. She also added the Chicken Leg tag for Sookie (pictured on the left). Their combined tags often make Stephanie laugh: It’s like Rue is asking “Where's my leg?” and Sookie is answering “I’ve got your leg!” |
“Rue Inspires me Every Day”
| Almost five months later, Rue is completely healed. According to Stephanie, “She runs fast, plays hard, and loves even harder. My 70-pound pit that was beat up, left in a cage for two months, and had her leg amputated still LOVES everyone. She is an amazing dog!” We’d like to thank Stephanie for sharing her and Rue’s story. If you or your pet have had a special experience with one of Dog Tag Art’s tags, we’d love to hear about it! |  |
