Bella

Bella is a beautiful little dog with an inspiring story.

Bella, 7 years old, was surrendered to the BGWC Humane Society with her best friend Gracie, who I highlighted in a Pet of the Week article last year in April.

The pair were surrendered four months ago, when their owner encountered debilitating health problems and could no longer care for them. They had been loved and well taken care of all of their lives, so it was a terrible shock to them when they were thrown into a strange, scary environment, never to see their beloved owner again. Because of this, they were very shy when they first arrived. Bella would not even let anyone touch her for the longest time, retreating under her dog bed if people tried to approach her.

But Bella’s story is not a sad one. Through the consistent work of the Humane Society staff, volunteers, and work release workers, Bella learned to open up to people, and that these strangers who came in to visit her just wanted to show her a little love. It first started with her allowing people to come into her cage, although she would not approach them. After a while, she would let people pet her briefly, then for a longer time. Probably the most powerful moments of my three years of volunteering at the shelter was the day that she let me put a leash on her–one of her greatest fears previously–and take her on a walk.

Now, months later, she is probably the most affectionate dog I have ever walked. If someone walks by her cage, she will jump up and down until they come inside so that she can snuggle up in their lap and get a belly rub. Gracie also has grown, and she just can’t get enough of people’s attention and love.

Unfortunately, Bella and Gracie are older dogs (although you wouldn’t be able to tell if you met them) and they must be adopted together, so they’ve had a lot of trouble getting adopted. However, they’re great dogs, possibly the sweetest and most lovable you will ever meet, and they deserve a great home. So if you are looking for a pet right now, please, please consider adopting Bella and Gracie.

Check out Bella and Gracie’s Petfinder pages here.