No one really understands the stress that dogs experience while in an animal shelter. But from all indications, they go through a lot. Even when housed in a reputable facility, one where they get plenty of food, love, and playtime, it’s not the same as having a forever home.

This is especially true for dogs that spend months, if not years waiting for someone to adopt them. Often, these animals begin to mentally and physically shut down. That’s what happened to one sweet pup named Bella. She’d been in a dog pound for several years. As expected, she started to waste away…without hope, there was no point in living.

Bella desperately needed help

This poor dog didn’t think she’d ever get out of her cold, lonely kennel. But that’s when something wonderful happened. Individuals from Howl of a Dog, a fantastic rescue organization based in Romania, came to her aid. The problem was before they could even begin to find her a forever home, they had to get her healthy.

Searching for dogs in need

Howl of a Dog is a unique rescue group. They purposely search for dogs that need homes the most. Bella fit their criteria. Not only was her black and white fur terribly matted, but she’d never in her life had any interaction with humans. That meant no petting, loving, or cuddling.

She was willing to do her part

Surprisingly, instead of fearing her rescuers, she embraced them. She was so incredibly receptive, they knew she was “the dog” to rescue. In their minds, they couldn’t imagine how so many people had walked right past her kennel without wanting to adopt her. Yes, she was messy and had some health issues but she was still a gorgeous girl.

Bella’s behavior won their hearts

Typically, when a dog’s been in the pound for as long as Bella had, they can’t relax. Even when taking them outside on a leash and showering them with affection, they stay alert. After all, they have no idea what’s happening. But Bella was different.

Nothing could be sweeter

The rescuers first loaded Bella into a vehicle so they could take her to a veterinarian clinic. But within just a few minutes, she did the unthinkable. This sweet pup laid her head down on one of the individual’s lap…and fell asleep. For an animal in her situation, this is unheard of.

Transforming her life

While in the pound, Bella had given up. If someone stopped by her kennel, she showed no excitement. Often, she wouldn’t even look up. What was the point? But once on her way to the vet, it was as though all her fear disappeared. It was replaced by an almost instant trust. She could somehow sense these people were trying to help her…and they were.

Bella’s new beginning

Rather than show fear or aggression, which is often the case when dogs go so long without human interaction, Bella was more than willing to give her rescuers lots of kisses. Now it was time to find her a forever home. Howl of a Dog came through on that too.

Today, Bella has a home in Germany. Her new owners love her to pieces and take excellent care of her. They provided an update saying, “I think she feels very comfortable and happy here. She is very affectionate towards me and we cuddle a lot, but she is also a bit of a clown — she makes me laugh every day.”

Who would’ve known a dog that spent years in the pound would turn out to be such a wonderful and silly pet? Remember, there are many more Bella’s out there. If you’re looking to adopt, don’t automatically pass up the ones with matted fur or a downward stare. Those are the dogs that need you the most.

Watch Bella’s heartwarming story in the video below.

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Source: Animal Channel, YouTube