Bella spent the first eleven years of her life in not the best of circumstances. Her owner filled her home and garage with caged dogs. The windows were always covered, and Bella never got to enjoy the warmth of a ray of sunshine finding its way in to light her cage. Finally, someone cared enough to notify authorities, and the breeding operation was shut down. Bella found herself in the county's animal control shelter, but a woman took her home, cleaned her up, and took her to the vet. Bella's new family grew tired of her after a few years, though, and left her alone and outside for long periods of time.
Bella didn't like to be left alone, so she wandered from her home until she was picked up by the local animal control officer. He knew where she belonged, so she was returned to her home. Things didn’t change, though, and she wandered off again, and then again. After the third event, Bella's family told Animal Control to keep her, so Bella was back in that shelter again, one that killed most of its animals. This time, she was rescued by us.
Bella is 13 years old, but she is healthy. Her heart is just fine, and her knees and hips are also good. Her bloodwork is all good. She has been spayed, and is up to date on her vaccinations. She does have a back problem that is severe, and is compressing some nerves. Because of this, Bella's hind legs are stiff and she’s a bit wobbly on them at times. She is on a joint supplement, which should make her more comfortable, but long walks are not for her. Bella's teeth had been neglected, so she had many removed during her recent dental. She eats food softened with water, but can manage with smaller sized kibble and biscuits. Bella's coat was very matted and required much trimming, but in time her blenheim coat will grow back to be beautiful again. She chills easily, so she has a warm coat for extended stays outside in the cold.
Bella is a very sweet, quiet, older dog, who wants nothing more than a warm place on the couch to lay and watch her person. She sleeps a lot of the time, which is normal and earned for a dog her age. She has not had an accident in her foster home, but does not yet know how to ask to go outside. She is not fond of the cats in her foster home, so a permanent home without them will be best. She gets along fine with the two Cavaliers in her foster home, but does not play with them. Bella definitely prefers a quiet life as a couch potato. She will be a perfect dog for an older person or couple who are home for most of the day, and who have no small children at home.
Could this sweet older girl with beautiful eyes be for you? If so, please complete our online application and then give Alice Dunn a call at (269) 751-7128 so she knows of your interest.
