WATCH: Brevard Sheriff Wayne Ivey Appeals to Community for Foster Home for Medical Rescue Dog

Rhea is a medical rescue dog suffering from a serious skin condition that requires specialized treatment

WATCH: Brevard County Sheriff Wayne Ivey is making a heartfelt appeal to the community to help a special animal in urgent need of care.

BREVARD COUNTY, FLORIDA — Brevard County Sheriff Wayne Ivey is making a heartfelt appeal to the community to help a special animal in urgent need of care.

In a video message released by the Brevard County Sheriff’s Office, Sheriff Ivey introduced Rhea, a medical rescue dog suffering from a serious skin condition that requires specialized treatment and a carefully controlled living environment.

The sheriff, known for his tough-on-crime messaging, said this appeal comes “with a huge heart” as his agency works to secure a medical foster home for the dog.

According to Sheriff Ivey, Rhea has been receiving ongoing treatment from the Sheriff’s Office medical team in partnership with animal care professionals. While her condition has improved, she has reached a stage in her recovery where continued healing must take place in a home setting rather than a clinical environment.

The Sheriff’s Office emphasized that the medical foster placement comes with strict requirements. Rhea cannot be placed in a home with immunocompromised people or pets, and the foster environment must be clean and sterile to prevent complications.

In addition, the foster caregiver must be able to bring Rhea in for weekly medical rechecks as her treatment continues.

Despite her medical challenges, Sheriff Ivey described Rhea as playful and affectionate, noting that she enjoys playing with toys and responding to attention.

“At the end of the day, all she needs is somebody to take her in their home, give her a huge helping of love, and work with us to get her completely nursed back to health,” he said.

The public appeal underscores the Sheriff’s Office’s broader commitment to animal welfare and its reliance on community partnerships to care for animals with complex medical needs. Sheriff Ivey said finding a suitable foster home can be difficult due to the level of care required, which is why he chose to personally reach out to residents for help.

Potential fosters may also visit the Sheriff’s Office Animal Services facility to meet Rhea and speak directly with the medical team.

“I’m begging you,” Sheriff Ivey said in closing. “Come give Rhea a hand.”

By stepping forward, a medical foster caregiver could play a critical role in Rhea’s recovery and help pave the way for her eventual placement in a permanent home.

Individuals or families who believe they can meet the requirements and provide a safe, loving environment for Rhea are encouraged to contact the foster coordinator at 321-633-2024.

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