Success Story: Laila the Pit Bull Mix

Posted by Joey DiFrancesco on

Laila the gray pit mix sitting in front of a chalkboard with tongue hanging out

Lolahemp is a family owned company that has a strong commitment to animal welfare. One of the rescue organizations we work with is Rescue Dogs Rock (RDR) based in New York City. They do amazing work helping abused and neglected animals find their way out of the kill shelter system and into loving homes. 

Today we want to share a heartwarming story from Melissa Eisen from West Orange, New Jersey. She saved the life of Laila, a Pit Bull mix who was abandoned after being severely abused and used as a bait dog in a fighting ring. 

Laila the gray pit mix emaciated before she was adopted in to her forever home

Can you tell us a little bit about Laila?

February will be four years since I got Laila from Rescue Dogs Rock. She was a bait dog. When people have a ring of fighting dogs they always take one dog that they starve. They make that the practice dog for the other fighting dogs. Usually the bait dog gets killed by one of the fighting dogs. They think because she survived they had no use for her so they just tossed her onto the street. She was 27 pounds and all skin and bones. She was covered in scars and bleeding. Rescue Dogs Rock took her in and she was in the home of one of their fosters for a few months. RDR nursed her back to health and then I adopted her. She’s now 58 - 60 pounds. 

What kinds of symptoms did Laila have before you found Lolahemp?

She was a little bit lethargic. At 10 years old I worried a little bit. So far she’s had two bouts with mast cell cancer, about three years apart. She had multiple tumors each time. She used to be very anxious in the car anytime I took her in the car. She would poop in the car. She hated going in the car. I think she was worried that she was being given away again. 

Laila the gray pit mix laying down outside

What kinds of traditional treatments did you try first?

I tried some other CBD oils. She did not take to them. One I had to put directly in her mouth; she hated that one. She made me catch her to administer it. She has had several surgeries due to cancer and has been put on anti-inflammatories, pain meds, and antibiotics. The only other thing she’s on regularly is an antihistamine. 

Did Laila experience any worrying side effects from prescription medications? 

Yes. That’s why I really don’t want her on anything. I worry about putting her on flea and tick prevention. I used to give her the ingestible flea and tick, but after reading about the side effects of those I stopped. I read they can cause seizures. My last dog developed a seizure disorder after an unnecessary surgery that he never should have had and he was never the same after it. 

Laila the gray pit mix laying down on the beach with her tongue hanging out

What are some of the specific improvements you noticed after using Lolahemp?

Her energy is better and she is calmer around triggers, such as riding in the car. At 10 years old that’s a really good improvement. And other people have noticed it too which is nice. 

How long did it take to see improvement after starting Lolahemp? 

Probably about a month later. She’s been on it for a while now. 

How much Lolahemp do you use?

I give her probably about a half dropper twice per day. It’s about 10 to 12 drops.  

Have there been any unexpected benefits since Laila has been taking Lolahemp?

She’s definitely happier. She loves the car now too. It has definitely helped with her travel issues. When I tell her she’s going to go in the car she gets super excited. 

I have more peace of mind that she’s happier. I’m hoping we have long term benefits. I take her more places now because she’s easier and calmer in the car. Before putting her in the car was miserable. 

What made you choose Lolahemp?

Rescue Dogs Rocks had a coupon code and promoted you guys. So through that rescue organization. 

Would you recommend Lolahemp to a friend? 

Oh, for sure.

Laila the gray pit mix standing inside

← Older Post Newer Post →

Author

Joey is the founder of Lolahemp. In 2015 he and his mother launched Lolawawa's Pet Boutique, an e-commerce store for pets and pet lovers that donates a portion of profits to animal rescue efforts. In 2018 the son and mother duo launched Lolahemp after the success their own rescue chihuahua, Lola, had with hemp products. Joey & Susan are the visionaries behind the brand, oversee day-to-day operations & marketing, and run all of the company's philanthropic efforts.