Shropshire Doberman Bella still searching for forever home

Bella, a 10-year-old Doberman, has been at Oakfield Oldies, a retirement home for older dogs run by Dogs Trust in Shropshire, since September 2025. Bella arrived at the home after the passing of one of her owners, leaving her family unable to care for her. Despite her age, Bella is described as energetic and playful, enjoying playtime and having fun. Dogs Trust Shrewsbury staff believe Bella would make a wonderful companion and are hopeful she will find a permanent home. The charity has received 177 requests to take in older dogs this year, highlighting the need for more homes for senior pets. Bella is best suited to a household with confident owners who can handle larger breeds and children of primary school age or older. She currently resides at Oakfield Oldies, which provides a quieter, home-like environment with comforts such as sofas and everyday household items. Rehoming manager Steffanie Parker notes that older dogs often wait longer to be adopted, with those aged five and over spending about 80 days on average compared to 34 days for younger dogs. However, the Oakfield Oldies scheme has been successful, with six older dogs finding homes so far in 2026. Parker emphasizes that older dogs still have much love to give and encourages potential adopters to consider giving a senior dog a second chance at a loving home.