Bella was adopted in Oct. 2020 with her devoted companion, Hagrid. They were very loved by their previous owner who could no longer care for them due to dementia. They were the first Clumbers for a couple who had been Guide Dogs for the Blind for 20 years. They adjusted to their new life beautifully. In early 2022, Bella developed spinal problems and needed surgery. It was a long recuperation and with great care she recovered to resume her daily adventures with Hagrid. In May, 2023, new problems arose with loss of movement that affected her hind legs. A second surgery was necessary to repair the discs. Complications developed and a third surgery was performed in June.
Bella gradually recovered with a very specific program of physical therapy. Her owners continued her exercises at home daily and worked in tandem with the therapists. The following photos and videos show her progress from slow initial post-op walking to a strengthening water treadmill. The best is the last video of Bella happily racing down the side deck! You can see how great she looks to move so freely.
Bella truly recovered due to the commitment and extraordinary efforts of her owners and the nonstop devotion of her companion, Hagrid, who was always by her side! They are such dear Clumbers who are now enjoying life to the hilt!
The Clumber Spaniel Rescue Charitable Trust gave financial support for some of Bella’s surgical costs and paid for her physical therapy which made all the difference for her. We are always there for Clumbers who have difficult health issues and need our help.