The shelter is not a natural or home-like environment and some dogs struggle more than others with the noise, over-stimulation, and lack of mental enrichment. Bella has found her two month shelter stay especially hard, probably because Bella has two dominant qualities: she is very people-oriented and incredibly intelligent.
When you get Bella out of the shelter, she immediately calms down and is eager to just be next to you. One of the volunteers sits with her in the play yard and Bella just crawls into her lap. Bella is so trusting, allowing pets and intense cuddle time! When she is not snuggling you, Bella LOVES to play fetch and roll around in the grass. She will make you laugh with her facial expressions.
Bella is extremely smart and can completely clean out a Kong toy which not every dog can do. On walks, Bella provides great eye contact, constantly checking in with her handler for guidance and connection. Although the shelter is weighing on Bella heavily, she has all the qualities of a great companion. She is just waiting on someone to see this potential too.
To meet Bella, call the Athens County Dog Shelter at 740-593-5415. Cannot adopt? Consider fostering. You can fill out an application at: www.fosdathens.com/foster
