Syracuse (WSYR-TV) -- When "Princess" the pitbull was found starving in a Syracuse basement back in December, vets thought she might not make it, but she’s put on nearly 30 pounds and has made a miraculous recovery. Her story caught the attention of Animal Planet’s Pit Boss, Shorty Rossi, who stopped in Syracuse Friday to meet Princess.
Princess was found emaciated after her owner failed to properly provide her with food or water for four months, according to CNY SPCA officials. Today, she's almost ready for adoption. An incredible story that even Rossi says is hard to believe.
“Seeing the photos of her online before and seeing her now is just like, total difference. And how can a human do such a terrible thing? But it's also good to see how everyone's involved to help this dog,” Rossi said.
The SPCA has seen an outpouring of support for Princess.
“At this point she's back to normal. She's doing great and hopefully we'll find a good home for her,” said CNY SPCA Executive Director Paul Morgan.
Princess is now at normal body weight and she's perfectly healthy. Not only has Princess made a full recovery physically, but she's showing a great playful personality as well.
Rossi has dedicated his life to saving pitbulls like Princess. He stopped by NewsChannel 9 to explain why it's important to restore the breed's reputation.
“Usually Americans, we're greedy. We want to make things bigger, more powerful, and treat them to be bad and destroy the entire breed. It's not like that. A lot of people don't understand these dogs can be rehabilitated,” Rossi said.
Rossi says Princess is a perfect example of how pitbulls can go from physically beaten to incredibly loving pets.
“These dogs are always going to be loyal to you. I live with seven pitbulls and I live by myself and I'm the happiest person in the world right now,” Rossi said.
There’s a bench warrant out for Princess’ former owner, 35-year-old Wendy Collins of Syracuse. She failed to show for a court hearing last week. Collins is charged with failing to provide sustenance and failure to provide medical care to an animal.
