Nellie is a quiet sweetheart who's been through a lot but is now discovering how good life can be in a loving home. She arrived at BARCS as a stray, and while she may be a little shy at first, it doesn't take long for her warm, snuggly personality to shine through. Once she feels safe, usually within a day, Nellie becomes a total lovebug who is happiest curled up by your side or resting her head in your lap.
Nellie fractured her hip and had surgery on 7/1. She's recovering well-already starting to put weight on the leg and staying her usual happy self. Her recovery plan is straightforward: no running, jumping, or stairs for six more weeks, along with gentle leg stretches twice a day. A sling is available to help with stairs if needed. Her naturally low-energy personality has made the healing process smooth and stress-free.
Nellie has been around both cats and dogs and does well with both. She is also incredibly gentle with children, even little ones, and is respectful and calm around other pets. With adults, she can sometimes be a bit mouthy in a playful, affectionate way, and her foster is helping her learn to redirect that behavior.
Nellie is eager to please and very food motivated, which makes her a great candidate for continued training. She is crate trained and mostly potty trained. While she can pull a bit on leash and may feel unsure in busier environments, she is building confidence every day with gentle guidance and positive reinforcement. Her favorite things include pets, snuggles, and soft toys. She especially loves her stuffed banana, which she carries around gently like a treasured prize. Nellie is not a high-energy dog; she enjoys short bursts of play followed by long naps and cozy cuddle sessions. On most days, her energy level is a calm, easygoing three out of ten.
Weighing in around 40 pounds, Nellie makes the perfect weighted blanket. She's affectionate, calm, and happiest when she's lounging right next to her people. Nellie was more than content to relax on the couch and watch TV, soaking up all the cozy vibes. On potty breaks, she remained calm and composed-even when passing a barking dog behind a neighbor's window, she didn't react at all.
Her foster family describes her as the perfect guest. She immediately claimed the couch (with zero regrets), but never wandered into other rooms. She's incredibly quiet and easygoing-even when someone came bursting through the door with a bike, Nellie simply lifted her head and gave a calm, "Hey." Before heading back to the shelter, Nellie made a pit stop at Checkerspot Brewery. She was unfazed by the crowd and other dogs, and seemed to even enjoy watching the Orioles game. Once she settled in, she cozied up next to her foster and took a nap in the middle of all the action.
Nellie is the total package-low-key, loving, and adaptable. Whether you're looking for a best friend to share the couch with or a calm companion to bring along to your favorite spots, Nellie is ready to fill that role. She would thrive in a calm, stable environment with kind people who will continue to help her blossom. She could easily join a home with other gentle pets, respectful children, or even be a wonderful solo companion for someone looking for a loyal, loving dog.
Nellie is in the comfort of a foster home, please email dogfosters@barcs.org to be connected with her foster family.
