Sad Story Of A Skinny Puppy Who Was Used For Illegal Trades

Animal welfare officers warned people about an illegal dog trade.

When rescuers first laid eyes on Bella, all they could see was a picture of misery. She was bone thin, terrified, and riddled with worms and infections. The story behind her terrible physical condition is very sad. Bella is a product of Europe’s illegal dog trade.

She was shipped into Germany from Eastern Europe by some unscrupulous puppy traders. They gave her away when they realised they couldn’t sell her. Thankfully, Bella found her way into the arms of humans who care for her.

Those people are fantastic workers and volunteers at the Tierheim Hilden animal rescue centre near Dusseldorf. The veterinary staff treated Bella’s infections and managed to deworm her. Also volunteers showered Bella with love, showing her that a better and kinder life is possible.

“The puppy trade is evil and tragic, and people need to know about it,” said the shelter. “This sweet soul hasn’t experienced anything beautiful in her short life. We’re going to change that.”

It will be a long time before Bella is well enough for adoption. The effects of the puppy trade mean she’ll always need some extra help and care. Bella has breathing difficulties due to a deformed nose and can’t stand up for very long.

But Bella is safe now, surrounded by people who will never give up on her. Research from the RSPCA discovered that 38% of people would buy a puppy shipped in from abroad. Thankfully Bella is happy now and the story has a happy ending.