09/01/2026
This is a hard one to write! Bella, one of our all time favorites passed away recently. I met Sue and Bella many years ago when they attended our Reactive Dog Protocol. Sue is an incredible dog handler and dog mom and worked very hard with Bella. Their success exceeded my expectations and soon they were enrolling in group classes and competing in Rally trials. Bella was so smart and quick to catch on and Sue taught her some amazing tricks. We had a talent show at one of our open houses in which they performed 😃 Eventually Bella looked like a “normal dog” without showing any reactive responses.
Many of you knew Bella because she became my most solid helper dog for our other reactive pups. It is essential to have a calm and focused dog to use in our trigger sessions as this helps the working team build success and confidence. Bella was instrumental in helping literally 100’s of dogs heal from their reactive past. She did so much good while she was here! The hole that her absence has created is a true loss to me personally as well as our Reactive Dog program. Sue, we thank you for sharing Bella with us and for all the hearts she has touched, including mine! We extend our deep condolences to you as you feel this loss 😢
Bella, thank you for your service! We will miss your presence and steady help as well as watching all of your cool tricks. Run free sweet girl and make sure you meet us at the gate when it’s our turn.
