Neon Purple Puppy Found With Burned Ears Finally Feels Safe In Rescuer’s Arms
Guest Contributor
When a small dog with bright purple fur arrived at Deity Animal Rescue in Los Angeles, the staff knew they were facing an unusual case. The pup, later named Benny, had been dyed with what appeared to be toxic paint. His story is both heartbreaking and heartwarming—a reminder of the resilience animals can show even after enduring mistreatment. Stories like Benny’s highlight the importance of animal rescue organizations and the compassionate individuals who work tirelessly to help pets in need.
According to The Dodo, Ellen Ballon Dante, cofounder and CEO of Deity Animal Rescue, was stunned when she first met Benny. The young dog, believed to be around six months old and possibly a dachshund or Chihuahua mix, had short legs, floppy ears, and a striking coat of electric purple. While his appearance was startling, it was the damage beneath the surface that concerned Dante most. Scabbing on the tips of his ears and ulcers in one eye suggested the dye had caused physical harm. “Perhaps the dye got in his eye and he was scratching his eye,” Dante said.
Despite his condition, Benny’s gentle demeanor stood out. When he arrived at the shelter in early January, he immediately melted into Dante’s arms, nuzzling her cheek. “He was a little scared,” she explained. “He was pretty subdued. But that is basically who he is. Like, the sweetest, most cuddliest, kindest [puppy].” I found this detail striking—how quickly animals can forgive and trust again, even after experiencing pain.
After receiving veterinary care, including eye drops and a thorough bath, Benny’s health began to improve. However, the purple dye remained stubbornly in place, clinging to his fur despite multiple washes. Beneath the vivid color, a light tan coat was just barely visible. The exact reason for the dye job remains unclear, though Dante speculated that someone “just decided to dye a puppy purple.”
Benny’s journey to safety began when a family found him and recognized he needed help. They took him to a veterinarian for an examination and vaccinations but were unable to keep him long-term. A vet tech who had seen Benny believed Deity Animal Rescue could provide the support he needed and reached out to Dante. She didn’t hesitate to take him in.
In addition to his physical recovery, Benny’s emotional healing has been remarkable. His trust in humans never wavered, and his gentle nature continued to shine. Dante was especially touched by how open he remained to love and affection. “He was … just so trusting,” she said. “Coming from the beginnings that he came from, to just be still so open to receive love … He’s an amazing puppy.”
Fortunately, Benny’s story has a happy ending. He was adopted by a woman who had previously rescued two other dogs through Deity Animal Rescue. Her experience with animals who had faced trauma made her an ideal match. In a delightful twist, when she first began fostering for the organization, her own hair was dyed bright purple—a fitting coincidence that seemed to signal a special bond between her and Benny.
Today, Benny is thriving in his new home. Though his lilac coat has yet to fade completely, he is surrounded by love and care as he continues to grow. His transformation from a scared, injured puppy to a joyful companion is a testament to the power of compassion and the dedication of animal rescue groups.
Stories like Benny’s draw attention to the importance of responsible pet ownership and the dangers of using harmful substances on animals. While the motivations behind dyeing Benny remain unknown, the consequences were clear: physical harm and emotional distress. Thankfully, with the help of kind strangers and a committed rescue team, Benny was given a second chance.
Deity Animal Rescue, a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization, plays a vital role in giving animals like Benny the care and support they need. Their work ensures that even the most vulnerable pets have the opportunity to heal and find loving homes. For those moved by Benny’s journey, supporting local shelters and rescues can make a meaningful difference in the lives of countless animals.
