About Bella

If dogs could talk, Bella would surely have an interesting tale to tell. But as it is, this sweet, gentle 11-lb. Rat Terrier's history is a mystery. What was life like for her first nine or so years? We only know that one day last fall, Bella and another dog walked onto the property of a stranger. Bella held her right rear leg up rather than use it although there was no sign of injury and she seemed to be in good health. Increasing travel demands from work eventually prompted the kind stranger to seek help from New Rattitude, where Bella's new foster mom wanted to know what could be done for Bella's unusual three-legged gait. When the initial veterinary recommendation was to amputate, her foster mom didn't stop there, opting instead for a thorough examination by a veterinary orthopedic specialist, who, though puzzled by the cause, was certain that Bella's leg was not painful and did NOT need to be removed! Bella may not talk, but we're pretty sure she heaved a sigh of relief. Besides, she runs at the speed of lightening outdoors in her fenced yard (on three legs of course). Within the secure comfort of a foster home, Bella has dropped hints that her previous life might have contained its share of mistreatment and/or deprivation. It took her three days to even approach her foster mom! However, as she learned to trust, she became a constant companion and a faithful little lap dog. Bella still barks at anyone who is new to her, but she'll warm up given patience and space. Since very young children typically aren't known for patience and Bella has never been observed with them, it's best that she live in a home without little ones. Bella gets along with other dogs but doesn't play with them, and since she so badly seems to crave affection, she would much rather have all attention focused on her. Besides, a person only has one lap, and Bella would definitely like to occupy it. It's not quite accurate to say that Bella doesn't talk; she just doesn't speak 'Human.' However, she wags her tail and barks and growls to tell you one of three things: 'I need some lovin',' 'I'm hungry,' or 'I need to go out.' You can catch a glimpse of Bella 'talking' in a video in her online photo album at https://imageevent.com/newrattitude/bella . As long as you listen to what she's telling you or give her access to a dog door, she'll show you her impeccable potty habits. She reserves her straight-up bark for the doorbell, strangers in the house, and the people and dogs she may encounter outdoors (she's still learning to walk on leash). Even if we'll never know Bella's history, we can see that she's pretty pleased with this new turn in her life. She sleeps contentedly through the night in her dog bed right next to her foster mom's bed. And whenever Bella sees the opportunity, she cuddles up next to her to get the love and affection she richly deserves. Bella is eagerly awaiting the day when the person she adores is truly HER person forever, and we're certain that if she could talk, she would ask you to apply for the job. ------------------------------------------------------ IF YOU ARE INTERESTED IN ADOPTING BELLA, please go to New Rattitude's website at https://newrattitude.org/adopt/, where there is detailed information and a link to our adoption application.

Tyrone, Georgia 33477