Bernice's Story

Bernice arrived at our shelter from The Animal Foundation in Las Vegas, NV. A long-haired French Bulldog with a gentle soul, she had already endured far too much. It was clear she had once been used for breeding and then discarded when she could no longer have puppies.

When Bernice came to us, she was in rough shape. 

She wasn’t eating, had persistent diarrhea, experienced overheating episodes, and struggled to breathe due to brachycephalic syndrome. Her ears were infected, her skin was inflamed, and she was significantly overweight.

Our team jumped into action. Bernice underwent airway repair surgery, including a palate resection and rhinoplasty, to help her breathe freely for the first time. She was also spayed so she would never again be exploited. During surgery, we discovered an infection in her uterus—likely the reason she was no longer “useful” for breeding. We treated her ear infections, addressed her painful skin allergies, and supported her weight loss journey. After diagnosing inflammatory bowel disease, we found the perfect special diet—one she now enjoys happily.

Just two weeks after arriving, Bernice was transformed. She could breathe more easily, her ears and skin had healed, and her digestive issues were under control. Most importantly, she found a family that loves her simply for who she is.

Bernice’s story is one of resilience, healing, and hope. Thanks to the care, compassion, and resources at our shelter, dogs like Bernice get a second chance—not just to survive, but to truly thrive.