Hazel was turned in to Rescue when her owner had to move to an apartment that did not accept large dogs. She had attempted to find Hazel a new home herself, but Hazel was a timid girl. After being in her new home for a month, she still would not warm up to her new owners and was returned to her original home. With time running out before she had to move, Hazel’s owner called YGRR.

Hazel was diagnosed with hip dysplasia at an early age and had undergone hip surgery at seven months old on one hip. After an orthopedic consult, we learned that Hazel needed an operation on her other hip, as well. We scheduled her for surgery and then began the long process of rehabilitating her. Because she had been suffering from her orthopedic issues for quite some time, Hazel had very poor muscle mass in her hind end. After several follow-up visits with orthopedic specialists, we started working with Hazel to build up her strength and muscle. She was walked, she swam in the pool, and she was gradually allowed to play with gentle dogs.

Hazel stayed at Riverview for many months following her surgery. She quickly warmed up to the staff and showed a sweet and silly personality that was very endearing. We had to make sure that her new owners would continue her exercise regimen and be patient with her shyness in new situations. Ideally, two-year-old Hazel would also have a canine playmate who would give her confidence in her new surroundings but not be so rambunctious that Hazel would be injured playing. This was quite a tall order, but luckily for Hazel, the most wonderful family fell in love with her! She had no trouble warming up to them and was even giving kisses by the end of their first meeting!

Hazel now lives with a family that includes a teenager she adores, an 11-year-old Golden named Brooksie, and Marty - the “Cat with an Attitude”! Hazel is still unsure of various sights on walks in the neighborhood, but she is very comfortable in her home. She loves to go for long walks in the woods, where she is so happy that nothing seems to faze her. She loves to play with Brooksie, who has a very sweet disposition and is patient with her new little sister. She also loves Marty, who likes to instigate play with Hazel. He gets her to run around after him, taunts her from up high until she turns away, then runs back up to entice her to play again.

Hazel’s adopters are committed to helping her overcome her earlier obstacles and will do whatever they can to ensure that she blossoms into the goofy, lovable Golden she really is. Hazel just loves her new life!