8/27/25 Bella is a darling senior Shih Tzu mix who still has lots of life left and needs a loving home! She was originally adopted from a local shelter here in Arkansas, but after a few months she was surrendered to our rescue because she "barks too much." Which is very strange to us, because after being with us for 6 weeks now, we still haven't heard her make a single sound, other than the occasional snore when she's sleeping. Bella is a gentle, shy soul who is just learning how to open up. She adores her foster family and really needs another dog to follow. She was very shut down when she came to us, but in her foster home she has learned to dog again and it is such a beautiful thing to see. She is now chasing balls, playing with toys, and cuddling with the humans. She is wonderful with other dogs as well as cats. Bella is 12 years old and weighs about 18 lbs but needs to lose a little weight. She seems to be healthy, but does have an occasional cough, usually only when picked up around her tummy. We had her checked out with our vet and her heart and lungs sounded fine. We think it may just be the result of being overweight and when pressure is applied to her tummy, it then puts pressure on other areas as well, causing her to cough a little bit. That's really the only time it happens is when she's picked up. She may have a little arthritis as well, which losing some weight will help with that. Her foster mom is working hard to help her get to a healthier weight. Bella is a precious girl who just needs a family to love her as much as her foster family does. She also enjoys swimming! Who would have thought? We didn't expect it but we were pleasantly surprised! If you have another frienly dog who will play with Bella and you can provide a loving home for her, please reach out to us. She is located in Hot Springs, AR and we would really prefer that she go to a local home. I think the transport would be hard on her. But we would consider trransporting her for the right adopter.  She is spayed, UTD on vaccines, heartworm negative, and on preventatives. 

To apply to adopt,