My Rescue that Rescued Me

Hi friends and community,

My name is Bori (she/her). I recently moved to Chicago from San Francisco with my 3-year-old rescue pitbull named Fitz.

I rescued Fitz when he was around 10 months old and because he was on the euthanasia list in Northern California. I was told the journey would be tough and the first 1.5 years were some of the most challenging, healing, and tumultuous moments. But in turn, we share a bond that is unlike any other. Fitz was and is a very timid and scared dog. He is scared of noises, corners, and meeting new people. In his moments of high anxiety, he would be dog aggressive and has now come to the point where he is more reactive towards humans.

I believe in Fitz, and I know that I need to do so much more work on my end. He wagged his tail for the first time 3 months after I rescued him, and through the training I was able to instill, he is now able to socialize with other dogs and go to Daycare!

Last week, Fitz was attacked by a dog at a daycare and retaliated. Both dogs left injured, though the other more due to Fitz's inability to manage his anxiety and let go.

So that is why I am here... asking for help, support, and advice as I have made the decision to put him in a train and board for 4 weeks which costs $4,500. As I just recently moved from SF, am on a single income, and work 2 jobs, covering the upfront cost for this is something that is wearing on my heart, but I know that it is the best investment. As a black pitbull, a stigmatized breed, I know what will happen if he bites a human or reacts aggressively to another dog. So Fitz, unfortunately, has to appear on his best behavior always, as forgiveness is not given easily to pitbulls.

I would appreciate any help you can give or just words of kindness <3

Fitz is my ESA. As a human who struggles with anxiety and depression and past trauma, Fitz has been the love of my life, my confidant, and my best friend. Building trust has been time-consuming, arduous, and emotional, but I take the good moments and put them in the lockbox of my heart forever.

Fitz loves sleeping on comfy surfaces, chicken, carrots, and scratches behind his ears.

Thank you for listening to my story. Thank you for everything. Thank you for saving Fitz.