Bait Dog Survivor Colette Finds Hope After Years of Unimaginable Cruelty
When Colette arrived at the shelter earlier this month, her body told a story of prolonged suffering. Covered in infected bite wounds and trembling in fear, the 4-year-old pit bull had clearly endured years of abuse. Her lower jaw was broken — an untreated injury she had been forced to live with for possibly years. She was frail, traumatized, and could barely stand, a result of being kept in a cage too small for her to even lift her head.
Colette was found wandering along a remote roadside in South Carolina. With no homes nearby, rescuers believe she was deliberately abandoned. But this heartbreaking beginning soon turned into a story of resilience, compassion, and a long-overdue second chance.
The Signs of a Bait Dog
Shelter staff quickly recognized the signs of dogfighting. Colette’s wounds, demeanor, and broken jaw suggested she had been used as a bait dog — a defenseless animal forced to endure repeated attacks in dogfighting rings. To prevent resistance, bait dogs often have their mouths taped shut with duct tape or barbed wire — likely how Colette’s jaw was broken. She was used not only for fighting but also for breeding, having already birthed at least four litters.
Despite her trauma, Colette showed remarkable gentleness. She clung to kindness, showing gratitude to the shelter team with soft eyes and quiet affection. A dedicated volunteer even brought her a hamburger every day — and Colette quickly formed a bond of trust.
A Lifeline from Afar
Moved by her story, Second Chance Rescue NYC stepped in immediately. From hundreds of miles away, the organization offered to cover Colette’s medical care and take over her adoption process once she recovered. President Jennifer Brooks has remained in daily contact with Colette’s South Carolina rescuers.
“She has captured everyone’s heart,” Brooks said. “She’s absolutely precious — and incredibly forgiving despite everything she’s been through.”
Brooks described how most bait dog survivors struggle with fear or aggression. But Colette has been calm and affectionate, even toward other dogs — an incredibly rare trait in dogs with her background.
“She’s the fourth bait dog we’ve helped, but the first who isn’t dog reactive,” Brooks added. “She walks past other dogs with no signs of fear or aggression. Her spirit is just incredible.”
The Road to Healing
Colette recently underwent surgery to repair her broken jaw and is healing well. In the coming weeks, she will be spayed, treated for heartworms, and receive ongoing care for her many wounds.
But best of all — Colette will not be returning to a shelter. Instead, she’s heading straight into a forever home.
“We were flooded with adoption applications,” Brooks shared. “Her story touched so many hearts, and we’ve already chosen her new family. They are going to love her endlessly.”
From the darkest beginnings to a future filled with love, Colette’s story is a powerful reminder of how resilient, forgiving, and deserving animals can be — and how deeply lives can change when compassion steps in.