Pit Bull Found Chained and Burned in Detroit Shows Remarkable Will to Trust Again
Late on August 4, a young pit bull mix was found in horrific condition near I-96 and Linsdale Street in Detroit. Now named Persephone, the dog’s rescue began when Ivette Borjas and her husband spotted her while driving. As they got closer, Borjas saw the heartbreaking reality—Persephone’s skin was painfully lifted and damaged, and she was chained with a heavy link, alone and suffering.
Borjas immediately contacted local rescue groups, and Rebel Dogs Detroit responded without hesitation. The roughly one-year-old dog was rushed to a veterinary hospital, where she underwent emergency surgery. Juniper Fleming, the rescue’s executive director, said much of Persephone’s back and part of her head had necrotized tissue that needed to be removed.
The cause of the burns remains uncertain, but Fleming fears they may have been deliberate—possibly from chemicals or a flammable liquid. “God forbid, maybe some type of lighting material was poured on her. Who knows, but it appears her skin somehow burned,” she explained.
Why Persephone was left in a visible spot is also unclear—whether someone wanted her to be found or if it was part of the cruelty. Authorities are now investigating, and anyone with information is urged to contact Rebel Dogs Detroit or the police.
Despite the trauma she’s endured, Persephone’s gentle nature is shining through. Borjas recalled a tender moment when her daughter rested her head on Persephone’s arm, and the injured dog remained calm and affectionate. Fleming called it “remarkable” that after such pain, Persephone still seeks human connection.
The rescue is now seeking donations to cover her extensive medical care. For the first time in a long time, Persephone is safe—surrounded by people committed to giving her the healing, comfort, and love she’s always deserved.
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This content was created with AI assistance and edited by the iHeartDogs team.
