Apr 25, 2019

Finding Bella A Home

Sure, you've met pets that have housing requirements, but ever met a pet that has employment specifications? Well, if your job description includes "working from home," then CONGRATULATIONS, you've been selected for consideration in making Bella the happiest pup in the world (by adopting her and giving her the home she deserves). 
My skills include kisses, cuddles, and earning all the treats.

The Balloon Bopper

Bella is a 4-year-old Belgian Malinois mix and we just can't get enough of her. She excels at all she sets out to do! Whether it's mastering the art of fetch, the perfect walk on our trainer's doggie treadmill, or bopping blue balloons in our Ed room. 

Boop on my snoot!

So why the employment specification you ask? Here's what Bella is currently working on: separation anxiety. A trait she likely picked up from her history of being abandoned or returned (more than once) at our shelter. 


Working on Her Worries

Separation anxiety isn't just your everyday new-dog-in-the-shelter nerves. Dogs that suffer from separation anxiety can cause some serious damage to homes and themselves if left alone for extended periods of time: e.g. without their family! 

I don't need constant attention, just a constant companion! 
Basically, she needs to know that you're there and that you'll always be there. This is why we're looking for a companion that preferably works from home. Luckily, Bella has been in our care for months now and she works daily with our dog trainer, dog training volunteers, and medical staff to lessen the effects of her anxieties through behavior modification exercises, regular social interaction, obedience training, and medication.

Today, she's completely comfortable being alone in our dog trainer's office for almost an hour. That may not seem like a lot to some, but with Bella, we're taking it slow and steady: we want her to succeed! 

She's even been featured on media: thanks Adam and Jenny!

Showing Off Her Best Side

We know separation anxiety can make some adopters apprehensive. But it's important to understand that the negative behaviors that can result from separation anxiety only show themselves when Bella is left alone, which is why we have the restrictions that we do. Again: we want Bella to succeed! While we are working to help Bella overcome her worries, separation anxiety is not a condition that will go away quickly. 

And in any case... it definitely does not define who Bella is!

She's an active spirit!
An explorer!
A patient bather!
A lover of games, treats, and toys!

Finding Her a Home

We hope you're the family Bella has been looking for, and if you're not, we hope you know where to find them. To reiterate, Bella would do well in a home with a companion that works from home or a family that can guarantee Bella will have a constant companion at home. Unfortunately, Bella has some reactivity with dogs resulting from an altercation in her past, so a single-pet household would be perfect for her. 

Although we've witnessed some promising breakthroughs with our friendly dogs!
Otherwise, Bella would excel with a family that is as active, playful, and sweet as she is. Visits with Bella are by appointment only. If you are interested in learning more about Bella, her progress, or to schedule an appointment, please email Jenna, our dog trainer, at training@SAhumane.org

We hope to hear from you soon. 

Viva Fiesta!

Update 7/9/19: Bella has been adopted!



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