Bella

Female (Altered) — Date of Birth: 04/17/1996 (28 years old (Senior))

Border Collie Mix

Hi. My name is Bella and I am approximately 9 years old. The top picture was taken shortly after I arrived at AFH. This is to illustrate that there are more forms of abuse than the obvious ones. My former family kept me tied to a wall in their home on two feet of rope so my hair and/or paw prints wouldn't mess up their house. They walked me twice a day and fed me -- a lot. I guess they figured that feeding me large quantities of cheap food made up for the fact that I never got exercise and spent most of my life tied to that wall. I should weigh 45-50 pounds. When A Forever Home rescued me, I weighed 97 pounds. My family let me go because they are moving and didn't want to take me. My hair was so matted and tangled that it all had to be shaved off. I am now in a foster home eating regular sized meals of good quality, light food. Since being rescued, I've lost 30 pounds and my beautiful hair has now grown back as you see in my most recent picture (bottom photo). I learned how to use a doggy door in only 2 days. I have two foster brothers, who I was afraid of at first, but now, thanks to them, I am learning how to be a dog, and I even play with them. I am housebroken, know basic commands, and am starved for affection. Do you need to lose those extra 10 pounds? I'll walk with you and we can support each other. Please consider adopting me, but only if you can promise to love me and give me lots of attention for the rest of my life. I love kids, so if you have some, that's fine with me. Love, Bella. If you would like to adopt Bella, please e-mail Patti at pattistinson13@aol.com.