When Bella’s breeding life came to an end and the breeder was looking to ‘retire’ her, there was no indication given that anything was wrong. Questions about Bella’s health were asked and although she was overweight, no information was forthcoming about any problems.
Bella’s new owners budgeted for neutering costs and got insurance cover in place for Bella. They were uncomfortable with what they discovered about how the breeder kept the many dogs in their care and it showed in Bella’s first few days in their home, with Eddy, their other young schnauzer.
“She was so timid and although she is not even 7, she seemed so much older. She was very fat, the breeder said she just scatter fed as too many dogs to feed in bowls so she obviously couldn’t keep tabs on how much she was eating. Bella was so slow, her tail was firmly between her legs all the time. She just sort of stood, not really knowing what to do with herself. I can only describe her as being like a shadow of a dog, she just looked so sad.”
Bella’s major problem which was discovered at her first vet check was a mouth full of rotten teeth. All but one of her remaining teeth required removal, she had at some point already lost 11. As the risk of infection was high, it could not be done at the same time as her spay.
“Bella is a part of our family. She and Eddy snuggle up together, my children adore her, and this last week she has started wagging her tail and with such gusto it’s lovely, she is becoming a happy dog. ”
Bella’s new family could not immediately cover the costs of the dental work - estimated in excess of £700 - and it was excluded from the insurance cover.
A Schnauzerfest Grant ensured that Bella’s dental could go ahead.
“Our entire family would like to thank Schnauzerfest wholeheartedly for the support. We cannot thank you enough and will be supporting Schnauzerfest in all the ways we can in future.”