Belle

12 year old Belle is described as “a big lap dog at heart who loves to cuddle close and be near her people.” Belle is a Southern girl, adopted in 2014 from a shelter in Alabama. Her exact breed mix is not known, but the best guess is lab and cattle dog. Belle weighs 65 pounds.

Belle is hoping to find an adult-only, no other pet home. Like so many senior dogs we hear about, Belle has not adapted well to the addition of children to her home. Because of this Belle is being kept away from the children. Belle is kept downstairs alone when the kids are home. This sweet girl is ready for a home where she can be with her people when they are home and in a home without stairs to climb, as she has arthritis.

When her people are away, Belle manages quite a while before she needs a potty break. She can stay alone without an issue. Once again, we mention the need to give a dog time to acclimate to a new home. Belle greets her humans happily when they return home. There’s nothing like the welcome home from your dog! Belle is a good alert dog, letting you know someone has arrived or when there are loud, unusual noises outside.

Because of her arthritis, Belle receives a daily anti-inflammatory pill (NSAID). This should be continued for her comfort. There may be other supplements or medications to help her remain comfortable. Belle has dry eye. To help with this, she needs lubricating ointment applied to her eyes as well as a medication called Cyclosporine. Belle’s adopter should be able and willing to continue providing Belle with regular veterinary care and good quality dog food for the rest of her days. We hear that Belle always gets glowing reviews from her vet clinic, the groomer, and her pet sitter! It sounds as though Belle’s hearing is not as sharp as it once was; this is to be expected for a dog her age. She can be startled when she is sound asleep, so one needs to wake her gently.

In her new home without many stairs to climb, Belle would appreciate a yard to go into. Belle will pull while on leash; her family says the “Gentle Leader” walking harness helps. She has not been going on walks, so if you are hoping for a dog to walk, Belle is out of practice. Your vet can tell you how much walking she should be doing. Our thought is that getting out, stretching their legs, and smelling all of the smells can greatly improve a dog’s quality of life.

We are told that Belle is a happy girl who loves to give kisses. She has been a very good dog for her people and has been well loved and cared for. Parting with her now is hard, but it is certainly in Belle’s best interest to move to a home where her needs can be met.

Belle is located in Tacoma, WA. For contact information please email: referrals@olddoghaven.org

This is not an Old Dog Haven dog. Old Dog Haven has not assessed this dog for medical issues and will not be responsible for medical care after adoption. We urge prospective adopters to do their own evaluation.

Adoption Info