What started as a heartbreaking case of animal cruelty has transformed into an inspiring story of resilience, love, and second chances. Simone, a pit bull puppy once abandoned in a trash pile, is now a therapy dog, helping middle school students with their academics and emotional well-being.
A Heartbreaking Discovery
On July 17, 2024, three American pit bull terrier puppies were found crammed in a cage between two garbage bins in Memphis, left to suffer in the scorching summer heat.
“They were literally put out with the trash,” said Ginger Natoli, co-founder of Tails of Hope Dog Rescue.
The puppies were in terrible condition—malnourished, suffering from mange, eye infections, open sores, and severe burns from the hot metal cage. One puppy even lost the pads on its paws from the extreme heat.
Rescuers suspected the three pups were siblings and named them after Olympic athletes: Simone (for Simone Biles), Phelps (for Michael Phelps), and Kobe (for Kobe Bryant).
While all three puppies were sweet-natured, Simone stood out for her confidence and calming presence.
“Simone just wanted you to hug her forever,” Natoli said.
A New Life as a Therapy Dog
Months later, Sally Parish, superintendent for University Schools at the University of Memphis, reached out to Tails of Hope, looking for a therapy dog for University Middle School.
Natoli knew Simone was the perfect fit.
“She was born for this,” Parish said.
In September 2024, Parish adopted Simone, and the puppy began training to become a certified therapy dog.
Since mid-October, Simone has been working full-time at the school, helping students navigate the emotional and academic challenges of middle school.
“She is incredibly present and engaged. She understands that these are her people and her place,” Parish said.
Making a Difference in Students’ Lives
Every morning, Simone greets students at the front lobby, setting a positive tone for the day.
“You can see people lighten. Their shoulders drop, their eyes widen, they smile,” Parish said.
Simone then rotates between classrooms, providing emotional support where needed most. Teachers can even request her presence to help struggling students.
“Middle school is one of the hardest times in a student’s life. Simone gives them comfort. Every kid feels safe getting down on the floor and petting her, cuddling her, or walking her. What they’re really doing is self-soothing,” Parish explained.
Simone has helped students who were hesitant to attend school, improved academic engagement, and even fostered friendships among students.
“Kids that don’t know each other will get to know each other via Simone. She breaks down social barriers,” Parish said. “I wish every school had a Simone.”
Breaking Pit Bull Stereotypes
Despite the common misconceptions about pit bulls, Simone has been nothing but gentle, loving, and well-behaved.
“She’s such a beautiful example of what this breed can be when raised with love,” Natoli said.
An Advocate for Animal Rescue
Beyond her work as a therapy dog, Simone serves as a symbol for animal welfare. With shelters overcrowded and turning pets away, Simone’s story raises awareness about pet abandonment and rescue efforts.
“When shelters turn people away, it doesn’t mean they keep their pets—it means they dump them,” Natoli said.
Parish believes Simone is also helping shape the next generation of animal advocates.
“We now have 300 students who are learning about animal welfare firsthand. That’s the kind of thing you can’t teach—you have to experience it.”
A Happy Ending for All
Simone isn’t the only one with a happy ending—her siblings also found loving homes.
- Phelps was adopted by a family whose children attend University Middle School.
- Kobe was adopted by a woman who works from home and wanted companionship.
“They survived, and they all ended up in wonderful homes,” Natoli said. “I am thrilled for them.”
Simone’s journey—from a trash pile to a beloved therapy dog—proves the power of second chances, kindness, and resilience.
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