#SaveBela Campaign a Success! Dog Destined to Die Arrives at New Sanctuary Home

News of Bela’s bizarre situation, recently spread like wildfire. His guardian, Connie Ley, passed away in November, leaving the nine year old German Shepherd behind. In her will, Ley stated that Bela was to either be euthanized, cremated and mixed with her ashes … or, if the funds were available, sent to the Best Friends Animal Society in Utah.

When is was found that funds were, unfortunately, not available, Animal rights activists and people everywhere came together. The #SaveBela campaign quickly gained speed with supporters on Facebook and Twitter signing a petition to save the dog. Thankfully, supporters and the Best Friends Animal Society came together and Bela arrived at his new home on December 28. It took 58 hours to travel the 1,800 miles across the U.S., but Bela was welcomed with a sign, lots of toys and plenty of excitement.

“It’s wonderful to be able to welcome Bela here,” stated Gregory Castle, CEO of Best Friends Animal Society. “It speaks to our principle of valuing all animal life. In this case, there was potential for something terrible to happen, but we are set up to give him a great life and all indications are that he is a beautiful and wonderful dog.”

Bela was well cared for during his the time between his guardian’s death and his arrival in Utah. PAWS of Dearborn County cared for the dog, and staff are ecstatic that he’s going to be given the chance to live.

“Bela is such an amazing dog,” John Garcia, rapid response manager for the Best Friends Animal Society, said. “My hope for his future, that he’s just happy and healthy. I’m honored to be a part of this. I’ve been following his story from day one, and to see him come clear across he country has been such an amazing event.”

The Best Friends Animal Society wants to remind everyone to plan for your dog outliving you. It is a tough thing to discuss and talk about, but there are many resources out there to help in this planning. By preparing for an accident, you may save your dog from an uncertain fate like the one Bela faced. Best Friends is one of several animal organizations that offer a lifetime care program. These programs will take an animal if it outlives its owner.

“Preparation is the key, but here’s the important part: Folks need to talk to the orgs if they’re looking to send pets to them,” said Best Friends spokesman Eric Rayvid. “Most run at capacity and might not be able to take in a pet that they get surprised with like we did Bela.”

We’re just happy that Bela has a happy, loving home with lots of toys! The alternative was definitely bleak.

Bela was welcomed with excitement to the Best Friends Animal Society on December 28.

This handsome dog has touched the heart of many during his strange journey.

Now he has a forever home with lots of love and toys.

All image source: Best Friends Animal Society/Facebook