Gracie the pit bull wasn't what you might have expected as one of about 50 dogs rescued from the Michael Vick dogfighting ring in 2007.
"Gracie was a bit of a couch potato. She was never the dashing, athletic dog that would marvel people with her agility skills or her boisterous affection," Will Lowrey, a volunteer for an animal group named after the dog, told The Huffington Post. "It was sort of funny, if people were expecting this muscular, regal dog, what they found was a very comfortable, lounging, small, strangely shaped black pit bull."
The 11-year-old dog died Monday. Gracie's Guardians, a group devoted to helping other pit bulls live as well as Gracie did for the last seven years, announced the news on Facebook.
Gracie had a heart murmur, problems with her spleen and possibly cancer, according to Lowrey, who said the dog "told her mom it was time to go."
Before her rescue in 2007, Gracie was thought to be a breeder dog, producing puppies forced into fighting. She later got to be queen of the household in Richmond, Virginia, where she lived with adoptive mom, Sharon Cornett, then-president of the Richmond Animal League board.
"Gracie was very, very friendly," Amy McCracken, executive director of the Richmond Animal League, told CNN. "She loved people and was never aggressive to other dogs."
Gracie's Guardians, based at the League, was founded in 2011.
"Richmond Animal League, seeing the plight of pit bulls in our area -- and elsewhere -- decided they wanted to concentrate some specific efforts to help these dogs," explained Lowrey, who says it was a "no-brainer" that the group would be named after Gracie, "as a testament to her struggle and perseverance."
The group continues to provide free spay/neuter services and vaccines for hundreds of pit bulls and gives out free pet food, leashes, collars, dog houses, fences and other resources to Richmond pit bulls' families. In addition, it helps homeless pit bulls find families.
Gracie's Guardians also conducts public education campaigns, with the aim improving pit bulls' public image and showing that all dogs -- no matter how badly they've been hurt, or how abusive their former owners -- deserve to be loved.
"While she was a dog from a high profile case, there are literally thousands upon thousands of other dogs currently suffering the same fate," Lowrey says.
"Her name and memory will always serve as this reminder that we should care about all of the other dogs. The little black dogs, the big brown dogs and all in between," he says. "Their plight is not over. And until it is, countless groups and people should continue to push forward to help them and to alleviate their suffering. That's Gracie's legacy."
You can help: Donate to Gracie's Guardians' ongoing community outreach program, which helps dogs living outside in low-income communities around Richmond, Virginia. Funds provide free spaying and neutering, vaccines, dog food and other much-needed supplies.
Email graciesguardians@ral.org if you're in the Richmond area and want to find out more about volunteering. Keep tabs on Gracie's Guardians on the group's Facebook page.
And get in touch at arin.greenwood@huffingtonpost.com if you have an animal story to share!
Justice is a 3-year-old boy who is super affectionate and loves playing fetch. Find out more about this goodhearted goofball on his adoption page.
Aiden, Lilo's Promise Animal Rescue
Everyone just loves Aiden! This super cute boy with the adorable polka dots, goofy smile and pink nose will just steal your heart. Aiden is so much fun and will make you laugh all the time. He loves to play ball and dribble a soccer ball. He is all about the kisses and cuddling and is super snuggly. He loves to take walks and is great on leash. He is wonderful in the car, crate trained and housebroken. He also knows all of his obedience too! Aiden would make a wonderful companion for someone looking for an only pet not because he doesn't like dogs but because he lived with another dog that wasn't very nice to him. He is fine around other dogs and is very calm around them. No kitties; they are just too fun to chase! Please consider giving Aiden a chance, he is an amazing boy who would make a terrific best friend! For more information, please contact Lilo's Promise Animal Rescue at lilospromise@live.com.
Oscar de la Renta, Brooklyn Badass
Oscar de la Renta is a stylish Staffie mix who originally hails from North Carolina. He's approximately 3-4 years old and weighs around 70 pounds. Oscar's pretty mellow but would enjoy hiking, long walks or just relaxing by your side. He knows basic obedience commands, is crate trained, good on a leash and gets along well with people. He's quite affectionate and just likes to be near you. Oscar has proven himself with all ages of humans and gets along with other large dogs. Oscar is neutered, up to date on vaccinations and microchipped. To foster or adopt, please visit the Brooklyn Badass website for an application.
Tyrion, Hello Bully
Tyrion Pittister! He is a sweet, snuggly, goofy little boy who was rescued from a dog fighting case, and thanks to the Humane Society of the United States, he made his way to the rescue group Hello Bully. Tyrion bears a lot of scars on his face from his past, but he is in no pain and totally ready to snuggle with a family. Tyrion is about 3-4 years old and still some some spunk so he gets all kinds of fun stuff to do! He loves to chew on nylabones, do enrichment activities, eat pupsicles and, most important, snuggle with all the volunteers. He is puppy-like when excited, and loves to run around in the play yard with tennis balls, and tends to snort extremely adorably. Tyrion's all time favorite thing to do is lounge on the couch or big fluffy dog beds with his humans. Tyrion is working on his polite ways with other canines and furry creatures, he seems to be extremely dog social. If interested please submit your application at www.hellobully.org/adopt or email ashley@hellobully.com for more information on Tyrion Pittister.
Pehu, Kauai Humane Society
Pehu is a 3-year-old cuddlebug who loves to snooze on your lap! He also loves to play, is a master of fetch the stuffed squeaky toy and has enough pep in his step to accompany you all your adventures. Penu enjoys the company of other dogs, playing and roughhousing with them until he's had enough and will come to you as his safe zone. He is food and toy motivated, and knows basic obedience commands. And would you get a look at that gorgeous underbite! Find out more from the Kauai Humane Society.
Princess, Providence Animal Rescue League
At 10 years old, Princess the Shih Tzu needs a comfy place to settle down in. Princess still has plenty of spunk and enjoys dogs her size -- she has also lived with cats! She also loves meeting new people and kids, as long as they are gentle and not too rough with her. The Providence Animal Rescue League thinks this girl would be the perfect addition to a family looking for a constant companion. Please give her a chance today! Find out more on Princess's adoption page.
Sophie, Lilo's Promise Animal Rescue
Sophie is a 2 or 3-year-old pit whose time was up at a local shelter. Sophie was thought to have been used as a breeder dog for profit, and was found in the attic of an abandoned home with her litter of puppies. Now that Sophie has learned that there is life outside being used and discarded, she has embraced happiness and fun! She is super athletic and has been spending time at an agility course where she has a chance to prove her innate intelligence. Sophie loves to be goofy and makes her foster family laugh every day. She is terrific with people and children of any age and other dogs that match her energy level. No kitties for Sophie, please! For more information about sweet Sophie, please e-mail her foster mom at HSpeeks@msn.com.
Rock, PAWS Chicago
Rock is a very happy-go-lucky 2-year-old Dachshund mix who loves to run and play. Despite his little size, Rock loves to sprint at lightning-fast speed and is sure to make you laugh at his goofy antics. Rock is extremely clever and even has a few tricks up his sleeve, like opening doors! He is very affectionate and loves to snuggle with his humans and follow them everywhere. Rock can sometimes be a little unsure around strangers and children, so he needs some time to warm up to his surroundings. He is looking for an experienced, adults-only home. He is also very cat-friendly, so he would do great in a home where he can have a feline friend to play with. If you are interested in adopting, please call PAWS Chicago at 773-938-PAWS, visit www.pawschicago.org, or email adoptions@pawschicago.org.
Jesse Pinkman, Brooklyn Badass
Jesse Pinkman's a loving and dashing pittie mix who's trying to put the past behind him. He's approximately 2 to 3 years old and a solid 60 pounds. Jesse loves to swim, cuddle, hike, play with sticks and do all of the usual dog things. He's also received top notch training and thrives with a strong and confident leader. Jesse's done great with his cat buddy, but we do think he'll do best in a home without other dogs or small children. He's a great, perfectly trained dog for the right pittie lover! Jesse is neutered, up to date on vaccinations and microchipped. Find out more from Brooklyn Badass.
Mississippi, Washington Humane Society
Mississippi is such a good pup. This 2-year-old already knows how to sit and walk on a leash. She love snuggles, treats and playing with people. What do you like to do? She is up for anything. Mississippi is so polite she only chews on her own bone and will wait be taken out for a potty break. After chasing balls in the yard or going for long walks in D.C.'s Rock Creek Park, Mississippi dreams about getting to curl up on the couch with a forever family of her very own. E-mail Mississippi’s foster family at bjfitzpatrick@gmail.com to meet her.
Grover is an adorable Shih Tzu who is looking for his perfect home. He loves treats, leisurely strolls, head rubs and snoozing on the couch -- though he doesn’t like to be picked up or having his stomach or sides touched. Grover arrived at PAWS Chicago after he was picked up as a stray. Soon after arriving, Grover started having some seizures. With the addition of some medicine, his seizures have been well-controlled. Grover would adore a quiet, adult home with experienced owners -- but preferably a house without stairs. If you are interested in adopting, please call PAWS Chicago at 773-938-PAWS, visit www.pawschicago.org, or email adoptions@pawschicago.org.
Sparky, Best Friends Animal Society
Adorable. Sweet. Fun. That's Sparky, a chunk of love who's very eager to be your best friend! Sparky walks great on a leash and enjoys car rides. Most of all, Sparky loves to snuggle and spend time with his favorite person... you! Come meet this special boy today! For more information, visit la.bestfriends.org or call (818) 643-3989.
Scruffy, Best Friends Pet Adoption & Spay/Neuter Center
Looking to add some fun to your life? Adopt Scruffy! This adorable terrier mix is guaranteed to make you smile with his endearing, affectionate personality. He's great with other little dogs, too, and loves to go on walks. He'll make a fine best friend for any active household! For more information, visit la.bestfriends.org or call (818) 643-3989.
Sebastian, Animal Care & Control of NYC
This handsome boy came to Animal Care & Control of NYC in mid-October. Sebastian is a friendly pup, only about a year old. Meet him at Animal Care & Control of NYC’s Brooklyn Care Center at 2336 Linden Boulevard if interested, or email adoption@nycacc.org with his A#: A1016924. AC&C adoptions include vaccinations, spay/neuter, a pre-registered microchip, an identification tag, a collar, and a certificate for a free initial exam at a participating veterinarian. For more info, check out http://nycacc.org/Adopt.htm.
Cinnabar, Humane Society of Calvert County
One look at that sweet little Cinnabar smile and you will fall head over heels in love. Cinnibar is still fairly new to the HSCC and here is what we know so far: Cinnabar is doing very well in playgroups with other dogs and loves everyone that she meets. She is spunky and outgoing and appears to be house trained. Cinnibar is soooo charismatic and she just draws others towards her, both dogs and people. In the short time that she has been with HSCC, we have totally fallen in love with her and we promise that once you meet her, you will, too! Find out more from the Humane Society of Calvert County.
Columbo, Casa Del Toro Pit Bull Rescue
Columbo is one of a litter of motherless, bottle-fed puppies, and a precious little black furry baby who is patiently waiting for the right family to come along and choose him! Columbo has learned how to use a doggy door and is very close to being fully house trained. What a smart puppy! Find out more on this little guy's adoption page.
Big Z, Kauai Humane Society
Big Z is a big teddy bear. He's easygoing, calm, sweet and very friendly. Find out more from the Kauai Humane Society.
Frisby, Washington Humane Society
Frisby is an adorable 2-year-old "wiggle" (whippet/beagle mix) and is looking for a terrific family. Frisby really loves other dogs and feels happiest when she is around dog friends. She hasn’t met any cats yet, but from what she hears, she thinks they are pretty cool. E-mail Frisby’s foster family at tsrankin7@gmail.com to learn more.
Ferdinand, Milton Animal League
Meet Ferdinand, a 5-year-old neutered male who is such a big gentle dog that the Milton Animal League named him after the beloved children's book character Ferdinand, a bull who would rather smell flowers than fight in bullfights. Ferdinand likes to sniff all the interesting smells around the shelter, as well as give big sloppy kisses to volunteers. He loves dogs, cats, humans -- the world! -- and is ready to be living in a home not a shelter. This dog is in at the Milton Animal League in Massachusetts, and can only be adopted to someone who is willing to come meet in person.
June, Animal Care & Control of NYC
This approximately 6-year-old gal has a bright and sunny disposition that will keep you warm long after the chilly fall nights give way to winter’s freeze. Visit AC&C's Brooklyn Care Center at 2336 Linden Boulevard if interested, or email adoption@nycacc.org with June’s A#: A0993015. AC&C adoptions include vaccinations, spay/neuter, a pre-registered microchip, an identification tag, a collar, and a certificate for a free initial exam at a participating veterinarian. For more info, check out http://nycacc.org/Adopt.htm.
Sienna, Lilo's Promise Animal Rescue
Beautiful Sienna is a 1.5-year-old Rottie/shepherd mixed breed who was found by a Lilo's Promise volunteer running in the woods. Sienna took a little while to learn to trust people but once she did, she now loves with her whole heart! Sienna's favorite activities are car rides for burgers or ice cream, rolling in the grass, hiking and swimming. Sienna is great with other dogs and would love to be adopted into a home with a playmate or two for company. For more information about adopting Sienna, please E-mail Lilo's Promise at lilospromise@live.com.
Pic, PAWS Chicago
Pic is a 2-year-old Boston terrier who is looking for a home where he will get all the love he deserves. He is a fan of people, toys and playing fetch. He would love to go for a long walk with his new family and explore his new neighborhood. Pic spent some time in foster care where his family described him as sweet and playful. He can’t wait to find a home in the suburbs or somewhere else quiet where he can shower his humans with love. Pic is not a big fan of other animals, so he would love to be the only animal in his future home. If you are interested in adopting, please call PAWS Chicago at 773-938-PAWS, visit www.pawschicago.org, or email adoptions@pawschicago.org.
Donna, Best Friends Pet Adoption & Spay/Neuter Center
Easygoing Donna makes friends with everyone she meets! Her happy spirit shows in her gentle wagging tail, and Donna also boasts some of the most adorable ears around. Donna's idea of a good time is walking, napping, belly rubs and spending quality time with you! She's a great, low-key girl who would make a super best friend. If you're in the market for a big, sweet dog, put Donna at the top of your list! Best Friends pets are spayed or neutered, microchipped, vaccinated and ready to go to their forever home immediately. Adopters also receive one month of veterinary insurance, a bag of pet food and a customized tag for their new pet. For more information, visit la.bestfriends.org or call (818) 643-3989.
Cleo, Best Friends Pet Adoption & Spay/Neuter Center
Cleo is an incredibly sweet dog with a calm and loving demeanor. She would do well in almost any home where she could be a valued member of the family. Cleo's favorite things include napping, lounging, belly rubs and t-shirts. She also knows how to sit and walks great on a leash. Come meet this squishy faced marshmallow and see for yourself why Cleo is a staff/volunteer favorite! Best Friends pets are spayed or neutered, microchipped, vaccinated and ready to go to their forever home immediately. Adopters also receive one month of veterinary insurance, a bag of pet food and a customized tag for their new pet. For more information, visit la.bestfriends.org or call (818) 643-3989.
Mia, Providence Animal Rescue League
Here's Mia, a 1.5-year-old sassy lady with personality for days. Mia is smart and eager to learn, so she will need a family that can devote a lot of time to training her properly as she settles in. Mia is part of a special Providence Animal Rescue League's programs that ensures she will go home with some private training to make sure she gets started on the right foot. Find out more on Mia's adoption page.
Nero, Providence Animal Rescue League
Meet Nero! At only 9 months old, this Belgian Malinois mix is still a huge puppy. He loves fetch, and will play for hours if you let him -- he is also full of kisses. An adult home with a tolerant, teacher dog would be a great match for this handsome boy. Find out more on this big baby's adoption page.
Caliber is an adult dog who was rescued out of a Florida dogfighting ring. He is now available for adoption through the Southampton Animal Shelter in New York -- here's his adoption listing.
Nolan, Lilo's Promise Animal Rescue
Nolan is a 2-year-old, happy, active boy who loves to meet new people and go new places. Nolan is housebroken and crate trained. He is happily living with a canine foster sister and loves to play with her. Nolan is very smart and would love a family to nurture his athletic ability and intelligence. To learn more about Nolan, please contact Lilo's Promise Animal Rescue at lilospromise@live.com.
Meet Rebel, the most handsome dog around! Rebel is about 3 years old and is a laid back and calm kind of guy -- until it's time for frisbee or swimming! When it's time to play, Rebel loves to show his athletic side. Rebs loves hikes with the Lilo's Promise volunteers, followed by snuggles and hugs from his friends. Rebel is good with other dogs and happily meets new people at events. With his sly smile and fun-loving personality, we think Rebel would make any heart throb. For more information about Rebel, please contact Lilo's Promise Animal Rescue at lilospromise@live.com.
Rusty Wallace is a 2.5-year-old basset mix, born and raised with his brother Kenny in Georgia before moving north. He's a short and sturdy guy who weighs around 55 pounds and is an absolute riot. Rusty can be wary of strangers at first, but will love you forever once you get to know each other. Rusty is a BIG fan of belly rubs, enjoys playing with other pups outdoors and just generally living life to its fullest. Rusty's crate trained and housebroken, and would love to find a forever family now that he's recovered so beautifully from ACL surgery! Rusty is neutered, up to date on vaccinations and microchipped. To foster or adopt, please visit Brooklyn Badass' website for an application.
Kenny Wallace, Brooklyn Badass
Kenny Wallace is a 2.5-year-old basset mix, born and raised with his brother Rusty in Georgia before moving north, when their former owner had to give them up. Kenny's a love who must be one of the most grateful-to-be-rescued pups ever known. He can be wary of strangers initially, but does well with a strong, consistent and loving leader. He makes friends for life with any trustworthy human who takes the time. Kenny bonds quickly and deeply and is all about loyalty. He's got crooked lowrider legs and an adorable smile (that runs in the family), and there's no mistaking when he's having a good time. He likes to romp around with canine friends and apparently lived harmoniously with cats down South. But he's more than happy to lie at your feet and have you rub his belly exclusively. Kenny is crate trained and housebroken and looking for a forever home! Kenny is neutered and up to date on vaccinations. To foster or adopt, please visit the Brooklyn Badass website for an application.
Jason Fitz and Frank Schwab join forces to recap the draft in the best way they know how: letter grades! Fitz and Frank discuss all 32 teams division by division as they give a snapshot of how fans should be feeling heading into the 2024 season. The duo have key debates on the Dallas Cowboys, New York Giants, New Orleans Saints, Los Angeles Rams, New England Patriots, Las Vegas Raiders and more.
