From Fire to Forever Home: Ember’s Journey with GCVS and Belle’s Buds Rescue
Gulf Coast Veterinary Specialists (GCVS) is proud to spotlight its meaningful partnership with Belle’s Buds Rescue, a Houston-based rescue organization founded by Tammy Livingston and Julia Stanzer in memory of Tammy’s beloved dog, Belle. Since its founding, Belle’s Buds has matched thousands of dogs with their forever homes, creating a lasting impact in the Houston community.
One of the most extraordinary rescue stories born from this collaboration is that of Ember, a brave dog who overcame the unthinkable. In June 2019, Ember was chained to the second-story balcony of her apartment building when a devastating fire engulfed the structure. Her story might have ended in tragedy if not for the heroic actions of firefighters Reuben Johnson and Billy Morris, who freed and revived her. Tragically, Ember’s owners chose not to reclaim her, leaving Belle’s Buds Rescue to step in and ensure she received the urgent medical care she needed. The Johnson family immediately stepped in to become the first foster family and gave Ember her beautiful name.
By July 2019, Ember was in the expert hands of our team at GCVS, embarking on an intensive six-month recovery journey. Her treatment included 10 days in the ICU, multiple hyperbaric oxygen therapy sessions, and several surgeries to address her severe burns. Under the skilled care of GCVS surgeon Dr. Grayson Cole, Ember underwent a transformative final surgery: a skin graft using tissue from her left ear to heal the last unclosed wound on her back. After 100 days of dedicated care, Ember was released, ready to continue her healing in the loving home of her medical foster, Amy Hayes.
Today, Ember is thriving in her forever home with Amy; her medical foster turned permanent family. Her groomer, Sandra Shaner, lovingly styles her fur to create the illusion of two ears while Amy dresses her in fashionable, protective outfits to cover the bald spots on her back. Ember’s journey is a testament to the resilience of animals and the profound impact of compassion, expertise, and community collaboration.
How You Can Help
Belle’s Buds Rescue relies entirely on volunteers and the generosity of the community to continue its life-saving work. You can make a difference by sponsoring a dog’s medical care, joining their foster network, or donating essential supplies to help foster families care for pets awaiting their forever homes. Visit Belle’s Buds Rescue’s website to learn more and get involved.
GCVS is honored to support Belle’s Buds Rescue and celebrate Ember’s remarkable story. A special thank you to Robyn Arouty for capturing Ember’s beauty in a heartfelt portrait. Together, we can continue to make a difference for pets in need.