Me and my dog......

Nella is a rescue dog. She was abandoned in woods near to my home. When they found her, she appeared to have recently given birth. They did not find her puppies. The sanctuary that took her in, told me she wimpered for three days and did not eat.

I remember so clearly the day I got the call. "Cheryl, we have a dog that needs a good home. It will need a lot of space. It might help with your rabbit situation."

I was not sure, I had always had spaniels.

When I arrived at the kennels they told me she was a Patterdale Terrier. I knew nothing about this breed. We walked to her kennel. As I approached Nella ran to the bars and greeted me. I can truthfully say at this point I really was not sure.

at the time I had a spaniel, she was deaf and partially sighted.

Then there was Riley and Poppi. I bought Nella home for a weekend to see how she behaved. She showed such respect for Polly (my cavalier) and with Riley and Poppi, she was an angel. I had made my decision....she was here to stay.

Once Nella found her feet, she decided she was boss. Did I have a battle on my hands. For six months chaos reigned. She would run up the stairs and jump all over the beds........run through with muddy feet before I could grab her. Little puddles appeared on rugs and I despaired. BUT I was not going to give up on this little dog.......

She was worth every amount of frustration, every amount of mopping up and cleaning. She now understands who the boss is.......she obeys commands.......our bond is strong and I adore her, as much, as she loves me. Nella is without doubt my dog.

Every year dogs are abandoned or left at rescue centres after the Christmas period. Taking a dog into your home is a huge responsibility and one that should not be taken lightly. With tender loving care and lots of patience, they can be the most wonderful companion..........I would not be without Nella, my life would be less, without my little dog.