Project Description

Adoption Fee: $690

If you would like to apply to adopt please
download the application form.

Adoption Application Form

If you would like to know more or have problems using a Microsoft Word document please email us.

NB: We do not rehome interstate or to applicants under 25. It is our policy not to rehome dogs in the Sunraysia area. As rescue groups have transported thousands of homeless dogs from Mildura and Sunraysia pounds over the last decade, we do not intend to send any back there.

Breed: Female Chihuahua/Miniature Fox Terrier
DOB: 10/06/2016
Weight: 7.3 kg
Location: Coburg North

Please note: Bella will be rehomed as the only dog in her family.

Bella, a tender, low-key girl looking for a cozy life. She adores her people and does like quite a bit of attention during the day and would be more suited to being the only dog in her family. Bella is like a little shadow as she follows her carers around the house and naps in the home office. She happily greets her people in the morning, often with a toy and always with a wagging tail.

Bella is a sweet, affectionate soul who loves people and chooses closeness: couch cuddles at night, quiet naps on a dog bed while you work, and gentle pats when she’s feeling a little unsure. She’s curious in the house and yard, and she’s a total homebody — happiest hanging out with her humans and pottering around.

Bella lives peacefully with her foster brother and has tolerated his play invites, though she hasn’t joined in yet. In a big garden with space to decompress, we think she may become more playful over time. She has shown resource guarding (food and high-value toys, and once briefly “guarded” her foster carer during pats). With simple management (feed separately, keep food and toys tidied away, and offer ball time only when other dogs are contained) she relaxes and does great.

Bella is calm to low-medium energy. Indoors she’s chill and quiet. She loves balls (not fussed about plush toys) and will happily carry one around. Food-puzzle toys where she “hunts” for treats are perfect for her little brain.

Bella’s still green with cues (e.g., she doesn’t sit for treats yet), but she’s making progress on “go to your bed” and “drop” ball. She responds well to gentle guidance, routine, and high-value rewards. She can get a bit shaky/anxious, especially with new things, but settles quickly with reassurance and pats. A cosy jumper has helped on cold days too.

Bella’s confidence has grown – she loves walks now, and is very happy meeting other people and dogs when out and about. She has been going on morning and evening walks and she gets excited for them.

Bella had one eye removed before coming into care; the surgery healed well. She uses eye drops in her remaining eye morning and evening (easy to give). Otherwise, she’s comfortable and thriving with a calm routine. A quiet, predictable household (solo person, couple, or family with respectful teens) would be perfect for Bella. Humans who enjoy indoor companionship more than big adventuring.

Bella’s the kind of dog who chooses you, she’ll curl up for evening cuddles, toddle off to her favourite couch to sleep, and greet you with soft eyes in the morning. With patience and gentle structure, she’s going to blossom into the most loyal little friend.

If you’ve got a calm home and a cozy spot on the couch, Bella would love to be your girl.

Microchip Number: 953010001332078
Source Number: RE120211

Health Notes: Bella came to us with a badly ruptured eye. She has had that removed, and feels much better. Her remaining eye does have some signs of lens instability and vitreal degeneration. She is on eyedrops to constrict the pupil to minimise the risk of any future complications.

Bella has a grade IV heart murmur.  No need for meds at this stage.

 

All our dogs are desexed, C5 vaccinated with intranasal, microchipped, wormed and flea treated. All necessary vet work such as dentals, surgery, eye treatment is also carried out. We are no longer heartworm testing as we have not had one positive test since we began in 2006. If a dog comes to us on heartworm treatment this is continued.