In the tight-knit community of Perris, Chance the dog was a source of joy and happiness for everyone he encountered. A playful Rottweiler-Pit Bull mix, he was beloved by his owners, Bryan and Brittany Engen, who affectionately referred to him as their “third child.” But on a fateful Tuesday evening, Chance’s life took a devastating turn when he fell victim to a relentless bee attack that would ultimately claim his life.
The ordeal began innocently enough when a neighbor, Tommy Baker, attempted to remove a hidden beehive from an old wooden fence in his yard. Unbeknownst to Baker, the agitated bees swarmed towards Chance, who happened to be exploring the nearby yard. Witnessing the dog’s plight, Baker’s wife swiftly rescued Chance, pulling him to safety in their garage. However, the damage had been done. The young pup had endured over 700 stings and was in a state of severe distress, requiring immediate veterinary care.
News of Chance’s plight spread rapidly throughout the neighborhood, prompting the Baker Family to start a GoFundMe campaign to raise funds for his medical treatment. The community rallied behind the Engens, and the campaign quickly garnered over $6,000. Despite the valiant efforts of medical professionals, Chance’s condition continued to deteriorate, leaving little hope for his recovery. With heavy hearts, Bryan and Brittany Engen shared the heartbreaking news that Chance had passed away, his battle against the venomous stings proving too overwhelming for his young body.
During an emotional Zoom call, Brittany Engen tearfully expressed the deep love her family had for Chance and their unwavering belief in his ability to overcome adversity. “He fought as hard as he could,” she said. “Although we held onto hope for his recovery, his young body simply couldn’t withstand the extent of the injuries.”
The devastating loss of Chance has reverberated through the Perris neighborhood, where he was adored by all who knew him. Brittany Engen acknowledged the inherent risks of living in a natural environment, where encounters with wildlife and unforeseen incidents can occur. Reflecting on the tragedy, she shared, “We live in nature. Things happen in nature. Coyotes. And now we learn bees.”
As the Engen family grapples with their profound grief, their focus now turns to helping their young daughter and son come to terms with the loss of their cherished pet. The arrival of Chance’s ashes will serve as a poignant reminder of the indelible mark he left on their lives.
In the wake of this heart-wrenching event, the Perris community stands united, providing support and solace to the Engens as they navigate the difficult path of healing. Chance’s memory will forever be etched in the hearts of those who knew him, a reminder of the fragility and preciousness of life.
