Why is Your Pet "Rescued (or Stray) and Hilarious?
THIRD PLACE CONTEST WINNER
BELLA
West Milford, New Jersey

Animals are special to our family. Over the years we have brought many rescues into our home, both dogs and cats. Bella is our newest edition, and if we hadn’t gone the winery that day seven months ago, we would have missed the opportunity to adopt the most joyful dog in existence.

I had been devastated by the loss of Lucy, who I called my “soul dog”, and was reluctant to consider adopting again. But my husband was persistent and on our way to the winery, he finally convinced me to “just stop by” the adoption event being held at Your New Best Friend Adoption Services. And there was Bella, the happiest dog on earth, tail wagging wildly despite the cold and rainy weather.

We went on to the winery, but I couldn’t stop thinking about that tiny puppy. I called, and luckily enough she was still available. We picked her up on our way home and as we drove, she stuck her little head in my sleeve to keep warm.

Now at 50 lbs and 10 months old, our Bella is a riot! She plays “the floor is lava” in our back yard, hopping nimbly from chair to chair and even leaping on tables to avoid touching the ground. Bella also loves to help my husband with the yard work by jumping wildly into the leaf piles he has raked. She gives us a teasing side eye, daring us to try to stop her misbehavior.

Bella is always gentle with our two cats, who love to meow until she comes and playfully swat her, though never with claws. She also loves to be around people; her “part-time job” is as a greeter at the local tractor supply.

My husband and I are in our mid-50s and B.B. (before Bella) our home had the tendency to become quiet. Bella’s vivacious presence has caused us to become more active and has brought a youthful energy into our lives.


Name of Rescue Organization or Shelter (or indicate "stray")
Your New Best Friend Adoption Services