Saving a life, UAN style

EARS volunteer Julie Rathburn of Mobile, Alabama was enlisted to sit with the little girl, now being called Bella, and keep her quiet and relaxed. Little did Julie know, she was about to form an intense bond and save a life.

After 24 hours, Bella remained listless and unresponsive. But The HSUS personnel in charge didn’t think Bella was suffering, so they decided to wait another day and hope for improvement.

A local rescue group agreed to take responsibility for Bella, then signed her over to her caregiver and savior, Julie. Exhausted from her round-the-clock care of Bella, Julie left the emergency shelter a day ahead of schedule to bring Bella to the comfort of her own home.

Well, we just heard from Julie, and Bella has improved dramatically just in just the few days she has been in Mobile! She is walking, eating, drinking and even wagging her tail.

UAN Emergency Services Manager Janell Matthies credited Julie’s resolve with saving little Bella’s life.

“A lot of us were afraid there was no hope for this dog,” said Janell. “But Julie found the hope and determination and made her become a real dog again.”

Bella still has some issues that need attention — including luxating patellas, which are common in small dogs who are inbred. But one thing is for sure – the love and attention she received from Julie Rathbun and all of the other UAN and HSUS volunteers and staff has given this girl a chance to live a much better life than the one she had in the puppy mill.

To learn more about puppy mills and what you can do to put hem out of business, please visit www.uan.org.