Life in a shelter isn’t the same as having a family, but for Bella, it’s all she’s ever known. This lovable dog has spent almost her entire life at the RSPCA’s Ashley Heath Animal Centre, where she’s been cared for and adored by the staff. At around two years old, Bella has yet to experience the joy of a permanent home, but those who work with her are determined to find the right family who can give her the love and stability she deserves.
Bella had a brief chance at a family once, but she was returned because she struggled with interactions with other dogs. Over time, though, she’s made significant progress thanks to the dedication and patience of the shelter team. “Bella is really worried by other dogs and lacks [socialization] skills that she missed out on in her early, formative months,” explained Hannah Hawkins, the behavior and welfare advisor at Ashley Heath Animal Centre, in a press release. “We believe that incorrect management has worsened this, and she was incredibly frustrated when we first started working with her, but, thankfully, after months and months of intensive work, we’ve started to see her making improvements.”
While her interactions with other dogs have required extra attention, Bella’s affection for people has never wavered. She absolutely thrives on human companionship, though her time with people is limited due to shelter life. To help ease her loneliness, the staff introduced Bella to an assortment of cuddly toys, and they quickly became her source of comfort. “Although we try to spend as much time with her as possible, we simply can’t be with her all the time, and she has sought solace in her cuddly toys, especially Winnie the Pooh, who she cuddles up with every night,” Hawkins shared.
Bella’s collection of stuffed animals has grown over time, and she can often be found surrounded by them in her kennel. She loves to snuggle with them and finds them soothing during moments when she needs a little extra love. As adorable as it is to see her with her toys, the shelter staff hopes Bella won’t have to rely on them much longer. They’re optimistic her perfect family will come along soon and provide her with the companionship she craves.
Her ideal home would include adults only, with no other pets, where her new family can give her plenty of time and attention while continuing her training. Bella has also dealt with separation anxiety, so her adopters will need to help her work through that challenge with patience and understanding. A spacious, secure yard where she can run and play freely would make Bella’s dream home complete.
Update: Since the publication of Bella’s story, the deserving pup has found a forever home. We are so grateful for Bella’s happily ever after!
Please ‘SHARE’ to pass on this story to a friend or family member
Click ‘SHARE’ below to pass this along to a friend or family member
The post Shelter Dog Uses ‘Cuddly Toys’ In Place Of A Real Family appeared first on iHeartDogs.com.