Chewy, a Chihuahua, barely three months old, was discovered by an airport security guard at Las Vegas’s McCarran International Airport. The poor pup had been abandoned inside one of the airport’s restrooms. It turns out that Chewy’s owner was desperately fleeing from an abusive relationship. Sadly, she couldn’t bring him along on her flight, so she left Chewy behind with a heartfelt letter, hoping that someone with a kind soul would find and care for him.
Alongside Chewy, a handwritten note from his owner was discovered. In the note, she described their escape from mistreatment, an emotional journey that tragically led to their separation. The letter reads, “Hi! I’m Chewy! My owner was trapped in an abusive relationship and couldn’t afford to take me with her on the flight. She didn’t want to leave me behind, but she felt she had no other choice. During one of our fights, my ex-boyfriend even kicked me, leaving a big knot on my head. I’m probably in need of a vet. I love Chewy sooo much. Please give him the love and care he deserves.”
Chewy required immediate medical attention due to the head trauma he had suffered. The airport staff reached out to Connor and Millie’s Dog Rescue, a local non-profit foster-based center. Thankfully, the rescue center took Chewy in and promptly rushed him to an emergency vet clinic. Connor expressed, “My heart sank to my knees. I didn’t hesitate to accept him and immediately instructed my foster to get him to an E.R.” After a complete recovery, Chewy’s heartwarming story resonated with many people, leading to finding him a loving forever home in no time.
The whereabouts of the woman who had to leave Chewy behind are unknown. Nonetheless, Gilliam hopes that sharing their story will raise awareness and help people facing abusive situations with their pets. If it’s not possible to escape with a pet, local animal rescue groups can provide temporary care for them until both can find safety. In such cases, shelters will often assist in finding ways to keep pets and owners together. Gilliam emphasized, “This is a significant issue that is often overlooked. We also want to convey to Chewy’s mom that she did something brave, and he is safe and will have a wonderful life.”
