A Moment to Remember

[mrdreamjeans]

As a Puppy Mill survivor my Bella was shut down emotionally, was very fearful when I adopted her, understandably so. It took months, over a year really, before she began to show her personality. Like a person with autism, I’ve found mill dogs often avoid eye contact.

Two years after her rescue by NMDR and subsequent adoption, Bella has really come out of her shell, she’s even a bit feisty. She constantly demonstrates how devoted she is, doesn’t like my being out of her sight.

Tonight, there was a moment between us to cherish. Bella was sitting on my lap and I shifted to get more comfortable. Suddenly, she turned her head and locked eyes with me, inches from my face. I whispered, “Bella, do you know how much I love you?”

Bella held my gaze for a few seconds, slowly leaned in, then gently put her head (left ear) against my heart and held it there. I am grateful and humbled by our bond, by her recognition of the meaning of my question.

Perhaps, I’m making too much of this event, but it’s a first and I’m savoring it as a moment to remember.

Comments

[apparentparadox]

A friend got a retired racing greyhound. For the first several months, Bella (same name!) would just walk with her head down and not show any signs of enjoyment. One day she started to run, just for fun. It was so amazing to see her actually enjoying running, rather than it being a chore she had to do.

[mrdreamjeans]

After time in a loving home something awakens in the rescue, some dot gets connected and their real personality emerges.

[disneydream06]

Such a beautiful moment. :)
Hugs, Jon