LAS VEGAS (KLAS)– Althea, the 7-year-old pit bull who spent weeks in veterinary care after being found on the brink of death passed away.
Althea was found in November on the streets of Las Vegas, left for dead, and weighing just 23 pounds. It was clear she was abused. Althea was taken to The Animal Foundation, and shortly after her arrival, employees reached out to Vegas Pet Rescue Project for additional help.
“For this to happen is unthinkable,” Tina Hayes, a volunteer with VPRP told 8 News Now. “She was a fighter, she had a will in her that I don’t think I’ve ever experienced it in person.”
Her condition was so grim, the chances of her surviving were slim yet the Vegas Pet Rescue Project was determined to give her a chance.
“We have seen these dogs pull through so we could not in our hearts and souls give up on her,” Hayes said.
Hayes spent nearly every day with Althea while she was recovering.
Since the first story aired on Althea, Las Vegas viewers were invested in her journey.
“Thankfully to you, you are allowing the community to know what happened to Althea every step of the day, so we are very grateful to you.”
Althea was fighting to live. Last week, she was transferred out of Veterinary Emergency Critical Care and able to walk again. But pneumonia hit her frail body and suddenly she was back in the emergency room. She fought until she couldn’t fight anymore.
Although Althea came into the world not feeling the love and cuddles the way a dog should, she was able to leave knowing the warmth of a gentle touch, even if it was only for a short time.
Vegas Pet Rescue will continue to fight for animals in honor of Althea. The reward for information leading to Althea’s abusers has grown to $20,000.
Anyone with information that could bring Althea’s abusers to justice is urged to send it to: Justice4Althea@gmail.com.