Nala

Nala, born November 3, 2019, joined Mattie's Place from a Quebec shelter where she was surrendered by her owner as he couldn't/wouldn't offer her the emergency medical care she needed. On March 11, 2024 Nala's owner contacted the local shelter as she had been in labour for 3 days. She did deliver some pups, but they were all stillborn. The owner left this poor Mom labouring for 3 days and waited another entire day before bringing her to the shelter on March 12, 2024 to surrender her. She birthed her final stillborn pup. RIP babies. Nala was critically ill so the shelter sent her in for an emergency spay to remove her uterus which was full of infection and it ultimately saved her life. Nala lived outdoors her entire life before arriving to Mattie's Place. She was used as a breeding female with the male Chow also living in the backyard breeders space. Nala was never a family pet. Never cherished as she deserved to be. Just used to produce puppies, litter after litter after litter because people are happy to open their wallets to buy a dog or puppy. Nala has never seen a vet in the 4 years her owner had her. As for temperament given her history? The nicest dog. Good with kids, humans, dogs. Though she can be suspicious of some people, so slow introductions respecting her space is needed, as it should be for all strangers meeting a dog for the 1st time. She does have prey drive and will chase small wildlife, so a hard no for cats as well. Nala is exhibiting vocal separation anxiety, so a home where someone is home most often is needed and of course, no shared wall living spaces. Though, she is not a barker when not in separation anxiety mode and is very quiet. Nala LOVES to run and play outdoors, so a fenced in backyard would be beneficial for her and also allow her time to catch some sunbeams in a safe outdoor space. I had Nala professionally groomed on arrival (March 26, 2024) but keep in mind having a Chow coat requires regular professional grooms every couple months and daily brushing upkeep. Cost for a Chow Chow professional groom will be about $250 - $300 for bath and full groom. Nala had some muscle mass loss from being chained and lack of exercise but as she gains weight and has freedom to run and play she is quickly getting back on track. She currently weighs in the 45-50 pound range. She's a medium sized dog. Nala is an amazing dog looking for an amazing adopter ready to invest in the gift of professional training. She doesn't have any specific areas of weakness, but does need to grow her confidence to move past her separation anxiety and with the help of a trainer, alongside time and patience, I know this can be accomplished. She's truly a magical, sweet girl that has overcome so much hardship and is ready to be someone's best friend. FROM THE FOSTER: Nala is the sweetest girl. She’s kind and gentle with everything and everyone around her. Nala craves affection and in return gives it right back. She loves to nap on the sofa next to her people. Frequently she will want to have a reassuring arm over her. She loves the outdoors, has frequent zoomies. She has created a race track through our yard. Nala will bunny hop when she’s happy. Nala loves her food and treats and isn’t fussy. She eats her food and is polite towards the other dogs she lives with, not bothering them when they are eating. ---------------------- To note: the above description is relevant to this dog in his current &/or previous setting. Home changes & adopter personalities can bring out different behaviours not previously seen. We also do not claim, endorse, suggest or hint at, that any of our dogs are hypoallergenic, low shed or no-shed. ----------------------- Adoption fee includes: spay/neuter, deworming, flea/tick prevention, vaccinations, food, nose to tail health exam, toys, leash|collar, go home preventative based on season.