Maeve, a three-year-old Chihuahua, was found abandoned with severe burns in August 2024, according to the ASPCA. After intensive pain care, wound treatment, and patient work to help her feel safe with handling, she moved through foster care and was adopted by Alex and Heather. Her story is one family’s account of recovery—not a guide to treating burns in other dogs.
What happened to Maeve?
The ASPCA says the NYPD found Maeve in early August 2024 with severe burns across her back, arms, shoulders, and chest. The organization’s account, published April 3, 2025, describes her as a three-year-old Chihuahua. The details here are attributed to that first-party account; they are not an independent review of Maeve’s veterinary records or the circumstances of the incident.
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When Maeve arrived at the ASPCA, she was in significant pain. Erica Barbot, director of the ASPCA Animal Recovery Center, recalled that Maeve was wary of being touched: “She was giving us all the signs of saying, ‘I’m in pain, please don’t touch me. Please don’t hurt me anymore.’”
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Pain care and wound treatment
Maeve spent several days in the ASPCA’s intensive care unit for pain management. Staff covered her wounds with bandages and changed them multiple times a day, the organization reported.
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Learning to accept handling again
Care involved more than tending the burns. Because touch had been associated with pain, Maeve needed time and behavioral support to become more comfortable with people handling her. After nearly two weeks, she no longer needed the same level of intensive pain management and moved to the shelter environment at the Animal Recovery Center.
Getting used to sun protection
The ASPCA expected the burned areas to have little hair growth and said Maeve would need extra protection from the sun. Staff ordered a UV shirt, but putting it over her head frightened her. The behavior team used gradual desensitization, time, and treats to help her accept wearing it.
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This was Maeve’s individual care plan. The ASPCA account does not identify a shirt brand or rating, or establish what protection another dog needs. For a dog with burns or vulnerable skin, ask a veterinarian about appropriate protection and how to introduce it safely.
Why did Maeve go to foster care before adoption?
The ASPCA placed Maeve with foster caregiver Carly M. to observe how she formed bonds with new people and managed everyday care, including putting on her shirt and having ointments applied. The account says she made progress in the foster home and was ready for adoption after about two weeks.
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- 【Breathable & Elastic Material】Our cat recovery suit female is crafted for comfort, made from premium breathable materials. Its softness and breathability ensure extended wear without discomfort, promoting faster recovery. The elastic fabric reduces pressure on your pet's body, aiding in their comfort and healing. Plus, it's machine washable for easy maintenance, providing essential post-surgery comfort and protection for your furry friend.
- 【Substitute to E-collar/Bandage】Your pet needs a comfortable recovery! Wearing this cat bodysuit on, helps protect the problem area instead of covering the pet's entire head, perfect alternative to the cone of shame, pet can play and eat with no limit. Whether after surgery or for other medical needs, our cat surgery recovery suit ensures your pet's well-being.
- 【Easy to Use】Breathable surgical recovery shirt features adjustable neck elastic band and back velcro tape design, it is easy for your pet to wear, and you can adjust it to the appropriate size to fit your cat's body type. The larger rear opening enables cats to use the litter tray without removing the garment, keeping them comfortable and mobile while protecting floors, beds, and rugs from stains and damage.
- 【Multiple Sizes】Cat neuter suit are suitable for female cats of different body shapes and breeds, Hpetppy cat surgical onesie offers 3 sizes for you to choose from, including S, M, and L. Size S fits cats 2-3.4 lbs; Size M fits cats 3.4-7 lbs; Size L fits cats 7-14 lbs. Please choose the right size according to the actual measurement, the size is for reference only, you need to measure your pet's size carefully before purchase."
Carly described fostering as a way to give a dog a temporary home and help make the transition to a permanent family easier. “Knowing that there’s an opportunity to give a dog a temporary home and to create a loving environment so that wherever they end up next it’s an easy transition and they can go be someone else’s dog for life – it’s really rewarding and makes me want to continue fostering.”
Who adopted Maeve?
Alex and Heather met Maeve at the ASPCA Adoption Center in late October 2024 and adopted her, according to the ASPCA. Their family includes their sons and their dog, Buttercup. The account says Maeve settled in quickly and grew close to Buttercup.
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Heather recalled that the family decided to take on Maeve’s care because they adored her: “But we just adored her right away and were like, ‘Well, this is what she’s coming to the table with, and we’ll take care of her!’”
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What does Maeve’s life with her family look like?
The ASPCA account says Alex and Heather apply doggy sunscreen to help keep Maeve’s skin healthy. It also reports that she has nearly 30 sweaters and shirts. Those details describe Maeve’s family routine; they are not general instructions or product recommendations for other dogs.
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Barbot put Maeve’s experience in the wider context of the shelter’s work: “Lots of animals come through our doors every year and Maeve is just one story.” In this case, recovery meant medical attention alongside patient, practical support—and a foster transition before Maeve joined her adoptive family.
Source: ASPCA, “Fierce Maeve Survives Severe Burns and Steals the Hearts of One Family,” April 3, 2025.
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