- Straight Outta Swampton
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- Straight Outta Swampton
Straight Outta Swampton
Issue #46

Want a deeper, more personal look into Tia’s world? Join her on Patreon — a multi-tier platform that gives you exclusive, behind-the-scenes access you won’t find anywhere else.
This is where you'll discover Tia’s most personal project yet:
Pitbulls, Parolees & Me — an online series where Tia breaks down the experience of filming the longest-running show on Animal Planet. Starting from Season 1, she shares her side of the story — the raw, emotional journey that happened beyond the cameras. The first five episodes are out now!
It’s real. It’s honest. And it’s only on Patreon.
Subscribe today and be part of the story.
You can also follow her on Youtube.
The Dogs and Cats of VRC are on YouTube

Follow us and get your daily dose of cuteness — featuring the adorable, adoptable faces from Villalobos Rescue Center.
From heartwarming rescue stories to playful moments and behind-the-scenes glimpses, it’s all right here.
You’ll also see updates on our Kajun Kitties
Subscribe now https://www.youtube.com/@VRCDogs and help us spread the word: every view brings these amazing animals one step closer to finding their forever homes!
Don’t forget our LinkTree- the magic portal to all things here a VRC.
🎸 Join Perry Sanchez TONIGHT; Monday Night- June 2nd!
A laid-back, interactive blues session — all for a good cause: helping rescue dogs. 🐾🎶
Perry will keep the blues flowing and the vibes mellow, while raising tips and donations for the dogs who need it most.
💙 Come for the tunes. Stay for the mission.
💸 Drop a tip. Make a difference.
Can’t make the show?
You can still support!
👉 Donate here
Be sure to write "tip" in the comment box and we'll give you a shoutout during the event! 🎤🐶
#BluesForTheDogs #PerrySanchezLive #DogRescueBlues #TipsForTails
DON’T FORGET WE HAVE TWO RAFFLES GOING ON:

One is win a Day With Tia Torres and the other is Win a Lunch/Dinner Date with Earl and Toney
3 winners will be drawn for BOTH: links below to order your tickets!
HAPPY TAILS THIS WEEK!
Sweet Brad Pitt(bull) has finally found his forever home — after all these years.
😭💕
“From roaming the streets of the Lower 9th, surviving on garbage, and fiercely protecting his girl Angelina (who found her forever home years ago 👼🏽), to exhausting the heck out of Lizzy, Des, and Earl (lol — facts), Brad’s journey has been a long one. But now? It’s his turn.
These days, it’s rare I get to say goodbye in such a joyful way, so I just had to share this moment with everyone who’s loved and rooted for him over the years. ❤️
Massive shoutout to our adoption team Lizzy and M2 for never giving up on these rough-around-the-edges, pure-hearted dogs. Brad always had a home here with me, but it means the world that someone else saw how special this scrappy, sweet, street-smart boy truly is.
Because let’s be honest — he’s aged like a fine wine. 🍷🐾”
Love Emily

FOSTER FILES (90 DOG FIANCE PROGRAM)
Felony and Gnocchi are off to their foster homes this week! 🐾💛
We’re especially excited for Felony, who’s heading straight into the arms of her VRC boyfriend Shelton — adopted about a year ago. When Shelton’s adopters heard that Felony was still with us, they virtually adopted her right away… and now, they’ve taken the next step and opened their home to foster this sweet senior girl. We can’t wait to see the reunion between these two — it’s the kind of love story that makes rescue work so worth it. 🥹💕

Gnocchi is a gentle soul — quiet, kind, and full of potential. Naturally shy in new situations, it’s easy to overlook the quiet magic he carries. That’s why we’re so excited for this next step in his journey: heading into a foster home!
Fostering can be life-changing for dogs like Gnocchi. It helps them find comfort in a home setting, build confidence, and blossom into the companions they’re meant to be. We can’t wait to see how Gnocchi grows with a little extra love and stability.
If you’re interested in adopting Gnocchi, apply here and keep an eye out for updates on his progress!
And if you’re located in the Midwest or East Coast and would like to open your home to a dog in need, we’re always looking for compassionate fosters — please reach out to us!
Email: [email protected]
THE ADOPTABLES
These dogs are currently available for adoption.
If they have been “virtually adopted” that means that their adoption fee has been covered by their virtual adopter for an approved application.

Moira (NEEDS a Virtual Adopter)
This sweet girl was found limping alone on the sidewalk, scared and in pain. Moira had suffered a gunshot wound and a torn ligament in her back right leg, but despite everything she’s been through, she’s still full of love. She may be a little rough around the edges—who wouldn’t be after such a tough journey? But once she warms up to you, Moira is all about love, affection, and soaking up every bit of kindness she can get.
Her physical injuries have longed healed, and her emotional road to recovery is ongoing, but we know there’s a bright future ahead for her and the perfect family somewhere. Moira deserves a second chance at the happy life she was meant to have. She will need an experienced owner: https://vrcpitbull.com/dogs/moira/

Papa Legba (NEEDS a Virtual Adopter)
🔥🐾 The Story of Papa Legba 🐾🔥
Papa Legba’s rescue was nothing short of intense.
Our team was driving down a busy street between our warehouses in New Orleans when they spotted three dogs, covered in blood and fresh wounds, wandering dangerously close to traffic. Every time a person passed, the dogs would charge in fear, their pain and confusion turning into panic.
Trying to help them wasn’t easy. Food only made them fight harder — they were in survival mode, hurting and scared, with bite wounds covering their bodies. The chaos of traffic, strangers, and pain pushed them to the edge. After hours of patience, strategy, and compassion, we were able to safely catch the dogs, one of them we now call Papa Legba.
Fast forward to today, and you’d barely recognize him. Papa Legba is one of the sweetest souls you’ll ever meet. His fur is like velvet, and once he knows you, he’ll melt right into your arms for belly rubs and butt scratches. Yes, he still struggles a little when meeting new people — but once that wall comes down, you’ve got a forever fan. Papa Legba will need a home with no other pets, but trust us — his adorable crooked face and endless need for love make him a one-dog show worth starring in.
He’s overcome so much. Now it’s time for him to feel safe, wanted, and completely spoiled. To find out more about Papa Legba: https://vrcpitbull.com/dogs/papa-legba/

Gorgeous Jorgeous (NEEDS a Virtual Adopter)
Meet Gorgeous Jorgeous, the snuggliest pittie you’ll ever meet! She wants nothing more than to be wherever you are—on your lap, at your feet, in your bed, or riding shotgun on your next adventure. She’s incredibly affectionate and will look up at you with the biggest smile, just happy to be by your side.
Jorgeous is respectful with cats and is dog-selective, so a proper meet and greet is a must. She’s great with all people—though she might be a bit much for very young kids, she’s incredibly gentle with seniors and has a loving, easygoing way about her.
She’s perfectly crate-trained, rides well in the car, and has a truly unique and beautiful coat that matches her equally vibrant personality. If you’re looking for a loyal, sweet, and slightly spunky best friend, Jorgeous is your girl! Apply for her here: https://vrcpitbull.com/dogs/jorgeous/

Blue Eyes (NEEDS a Virtual Adopter)
This goofy boy is full of love and life! He’s the kind of dog who will literally stop mid-walk just to soak up some attention. His favorite thing? Rolling over for endless belly rubs and playing with toys — especially balls he can chase and toss around himself! 🎾
Blue Eyes doesn’t really bark — he screams when he wants something, and honestly, it just makes him that much more adorable. He’s not a huge fan of jumping into the car, but once he’s in, he rides like a champ.
Blue Eyes does have a condition called Rickets, caused by poor nutrition when he was a growing puppy. This left his legs a little different looking, but it doesn’t slow him down one bit! 🐾
We just keep an eye on him for early signs of arthritis, but otherwise, he gets around like any other happy pup.
Check out more about Blue Eyes: https://vrcpitbull.com/dogs/blue-eyes/
Silver Snoots
Adoptable Seniors at VRC
Dogs 10+ are apart of our Senior Dog Program
Senior Progam: they are covered medically by us at VRC for the remainder their life.
Yup… its Breakfast AGAIN (Senior Program + Virtually Adopted)
🥓☀️ Yup, it's that time again… BREAKFAST TIME! ☀️🥓
And no, we’re not talking waffles — we’re talking about our amazing, spunky senior girl, Breakfast! 🍳🐾
She may be in her golden years, but don’t let that fool you — this girl is full of sass, goof, and heart. Breakfast loves people, thrives on cuddles, and is especially great with kids — always gentle, always respectful. House manners? Check. Perfect car buddy? Double check. She’ll ride shotgun with her head out the window, ears flapping in the breeze, just living her best life.
We are determined to find this sweetheart the loving home she deserves to enjoy her golden years in comfort, joy, and lots of snuggles.
📩 Apply today or share to help her find her forever home!: https://www.vrcpitbull.com/dogs/breakfast/
Ameila Earhart (NEEDS a Virtual Adopter)
Meet Our Drama Queen Diva 😄
This fabulous lady is about 8 ½ years old. She has Rickets, . Her story is as unique as her personality — she was found by a crop duster pilot who discovered her hanging around his plane hangar in the cane fields. He brought her to us, and she’s been ruling the roost ever since!
She is, without a doubt, the most spoiled and most temperamental girl we have — and we say that with love. Staff adore her so much that when she doesn't feel like walking, they carry her… which, of course, she now takes full advantage of. We’ve had to ask them to stop, or she’ll just pull the “too tired” card every time! 😆
She’s also a professional kleptomaniac. Toys, blankets, buckets, paper towels — if she wants it, she takes it. She’s even been known to hop into the dryer just for fun (yes, really). She’s basically a furry toddler with a mission to entertain.
While she gets along with other dogs, she’s usually in her own little world and doesn’t pay them much mind. What she does love: people, car rides, sunbathing, and splashing in the water — but not long walks, as she tires easily.
She’s confident, hilarious, goofy, and has a larger-than-life personality that will keep you laughing every day. A little naughty, a lot lovable — she’s truly one of a kind.
Adopt Ameila: https://vrcpitbull.com/dogs/amelia/
Knack (NEEDS a Virtual Adopter)
👑☀️ Meet Sassy Knack! ☀️👑
This queen has been waiting far too long for her happily ever after — and we think it’s time the world sees just how fabulous she is. Knack was found as a stray years ago alongside another dog, Knick, and a small puppy. Knick found his home through our Prison Program, and the puppy was adopted shortly after… but Knack? She's still waiting. And while she’s been incredibly patient, Knack is ready for her moment. She’s not a fan of sharing the spotlight — no other dogs for this diva, please! She prefers to be the spoiled center of your universe, just as she was born to be. 👑
Her favorite activities include:
🌞 Sunbathing like royalty
👑 Strutting the yard with serious main character energy
💁♀️ Rolling in the grass and soaking up compliments
🫶 Being told she’s beautiful (because she knows it’s true)
Knack is sweet, sassy, and full of charm. She just needs the right person to see her, love her, and give her the throne she’s been waiting for.
Ready to give a queen her castle? Reach out to meet Knack! https://vrcpitbull.com/dogs/knack/

Splinter (Senior Program + Virtually Adopted)
🐾💥 Meet Splinter: Spunky, Sweet & Still Going Strong 💥🐾
This is Splinter — and trust us when we say, he’s a lot of dog… in the best way possible. His story started in the worst way: he was brought to us in the enclosed trunk of a car, many years ago. Yes, a trunk. It's a moment we’ll never forget — and one he’s thankfully left far behind.
Now a spry senior, Splinter hasn’t slowed down much. He still gets the zoomies, lives for a good car ride (in the front seat!), and loves to burrow into a pile of warm blankets like a cozy little king. 👑
Need a way to his heart? A frozen peanut butter kong or a soft toy will do the trick. He’s got energy, charm, and a soul full of gratitude.
Splinter may be a senior, but he’s proof that age is just a number — and life can still be full of joy, zooms, and snuggles. Apply to learn more about Splinter: https://www.vrcpitbull.com/dogs/splinter/
Interested in other adoptable dogs at Villalobos? Click below!
CAN’T ADOPT BUT WANT TO HELP OUT?
Check out our current programs
Go to the website https://www.vrcpitbull.com/dogs/ and pick out a dog who isn’t already virtually adopted and then email us for more information. [email protected]
More info on the program is at https://www.vrcpitbull.com/how-you-can-help/sponsor-a-dog/
VRC SPONSORSHIP PROGRAM
At Villalobos Rescue Center, we are dedicated to provide lifelong care and love to dogs and cats that face significant medical or behavioral challenges , making them unlikely candidates for adoption. Our Sponsorship Program offers a meaningful way for our supporters to contribute to the well-being of these “lifers” through monthly donations. While becoming a sponsor, you help us with the essential care, as well as medical costs.
VRC dog sponsors get access to a private Facebook group moderated by Tia, Katie & Jenna.

Allen
🐾 A Hound in Wolf’s Clothing 🐾
This sad-eyed Hound came to us through a local animal shelter here in Louisiana, and he carries the quiet, heavy story of a dog who’s known deep isolation.
With the classic markings of a hunting dog, we suspect he spent most of his life alone in the woods, likely with very little human interaction. When he arrived, he was terrified of everyone — frozen in fear, unsure of what kindness even looked like.
Over time, we’ve come to realize that while he may never be adoptable in the traditional sense, he still deserves safety, peace, and dignity. He is what we lovingly call a “Hound in Wolf’s clothing” — shy, wary, and slow to trust… but deep down, he’s gentle, sweet, and quietly curious.
These days, he finds comfort in the small things:
🐾 Running freely in the yard
🐾 Quiet companionship with Mariah and her trusted team
🐾 A space where no one expects anything from him, only love
While he may never know life in a home, he has found his version of family here — and that’s what matters most. 💛 Dogs like him remind us that rescue isn’t always about adoption — sometimes, it’s about simply giving them the freedom to be who they are, on their terms. To Sponsor Allen: https://www.vrcpitbull.com/dogs/allen/

Elrod
🖤 A Long Road to Healing 🖤
This beautiful Labrador is one of the most heartbreaking emotional abuse cases we've ever encountered. In October 2021, we responded to a call in Northern Mississippi to help a group of abandoned and horribly neglected “hunting dogs.” While most were Bloodhounds and Hound mixes, there was one terrified Lab whose pain stood out the most.
When we carried him out of the shelter, he drooled, peed on himself, and shook uncontrollably during the ride home. His fear was overwhelming — so deep that it affected him physically. To make things worse, he was diagnosed with one of the worst cases of heartworm disease we’ve seen. He has since went through treatment, and while we’re hopeful his body will heal, we know his emotional wounds will take far longer.
But there is hope. 🧡
He’s currently living with one of our long-time employees, someone who understands dogs like him — and for the first time, he’s starting to come out of his shell. Slowly but surely, we’re seeing glimpses of the dog he’s meant to be. To be apart of Elrod’s healing journey sponsor him here: https://www.vrcpitbull.com/dogs/elrod/

Update from a couple weeks ago!
A NEW FACE ARRIVES IN TEXAS
This petite girl was recently transferred to our Texas location from Louisiana. We are still getting a feel for each other and don’t know much about her yet but for now, but Amy is calling her Poquito.
We will be adding her to our sponsorship program soon! So if you are interested in sponsoring her keep checking for updates!
Welcome little one
💙 Wolf-dog Wednesday: Meet Chatty 🐺
This week’s spotlight shines on Chatty, one of our most soulful and resilient pack members.
Chatty is the sister to Genevieve and Sister, and part of what we lovingly call the Original Five — our founding wolf-dog pack. Over the years, we’ve said painful goodbyes to Merlin, then Goliath, and just last week, we faced the sudden loss of Sister.

Now, only Chatty and Genevieve remain.
Through all the heartbreak, Chatty continues to show us the strength and spirit that made this pack so special. She’s quiet, observant, and deeply bonded to those she trusts — a true reflection of the wolf-dog soul.
As we honor those we’ve lost, we also celebrate those still with us. Chatty is a living piece of our history, and every day with her is a gift.
💙 Run free, Merlin, Goliath, and Sister.
We’ll keep protecting those still with us — for all of you.
Sponsor Chatty here: https://www.vrcpitbull.com/dogs/chatty/
💔 Heartbreaking Update About Sister 💔
Last week, we reached out asking for sponsors for our beautiful girl, Sister. Sadly, just a few days later, she began feeling unwell. On Thursday, Amy took her to the vet, and we received the devastating news: cancer had overtaken her.
We are heartbroken. Sister was deeply loved and brought so much light during her time with us. We’re grateful she knew love, care, and safety.
Thank you to everyone who showed her kindness and support. Please keep Amy and the rest of our team in your thoughts as we grieve this tremendous loss.

🌈 Rest easy, sweet Sister.
You were loved more than you know. 🐾

We’ve got a brand new face in our Kajun Kitties Krewe
🐾✨ Meet Minerva! ✨🐾
Minerva is the newest face of our Kajun Kitties Sponsorship Program — and she’s ready to steal hearts!
![]() Minerva | ![]() |
Minerva’s story began in late 2016 or early 2017, when the husband of one of our longtime employees, Carol, discovered a feral black cat hiding in the warehouse where he worked. The cat couldn’t return to the warehouse after being trapped, so Carol had her spayed and fully vetted. Naturally, she named her Minerva, after one her favorite Professors.
Minerva holds a special place in our hearts, as she was deeply loved by Carol, who sadly passed away from cancer in August 2019. In honor of Carol, and in recognition of how far Minerva has come, she will live out her life with us in peace and comfort.
💛 By becoming her sponsor, you’ll help cover her food, vet care, and daily needs — and ensure she gets the love and support she deserves.
Check out our Kajun Kitties Linktree here for all things needed to help the cats of VRC: 👉 https://linktr.ee/VRC_Kajun_Kitties
🎙️ Good Morning, Villalobos! 🐾
Your Saturday Morning Talk Show – Every Week at 9 AM!
Grab your coffee, get cozy, and join us for “Good Morning Villalobos” — your behind-the-scenes pass into the world of Villalobos Rescue Center.
🐶 All things VRC
🐾 Dog stories, rescue updates, and real talk
☕ Chill Saturday morning vibes
🎤 Hosted by Katie & Jenna
Whether you're a longtime supporter or new to the pack, this is the perfect way to kick off your weekend with purpose and paws. 🐾💬
📍 Tune in every Saturday at 9 AM!
🐾 RESCUED BY RECOVERY: Saving Dogs, Healing Humans 🐾
At Villalobos Rescue Center, we’ve always believed in second chances—for the dogs we rescue and for the humans working to rescue themselves. That belief is at the core of everything we do, and it’s what inspired our new podcast: Rescued by Recovery, hosted by our very own Katie and Perry.
Our longtime supporters know that Villalobos has never been just about dogs. From the very beginning, we’ve opened the door for people—especially those impacted by incarceration, addiction, or hardship. It was about helping dogs and people—start over. Pit Bulls and Parolees helped shift the conversation, showing the world that people, like dogs, are more than their pasts. With structure, compassion, hard work, and purpose, both can thrive. Dogs are often a product of their environment and circumstances—and humans are, too. But just like dogs, we can be re-trained. We can unlearn survival modes, rebuild trust, and step into healthier, more grounded versions of ourselves.
Rescued by Recovery continues this theme of second chances. Each episode explores the realities of sobriety, mental health, trauma, wellness, and learning how to rebuild relationships—with others and with ourselves. Katie and Perry share their personal struggles and will share how they remain sober and healthy. They will also share tips and tricks and also have on guests.
Remember recovery isn’t just about quitting drugs or alcohol—it’s about healing from everything life has thrown at you.
💔 Toxic relationships
🧠 Mental health struggles
🍔 Food addiction
😰 Work stress
🌪 Trauma
Whether you’re in recovery, supporting someone who is, wanting to get healthy, or simply drawn to stories rooted in growth, and resilience, Rescued by Recovery is for you.
🎧 Listen to the first 2 episodes now on Spotify. It’s a new podcast and a little ruff around the edges, but stay tuned for new episodes that are more polished.
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