Foxy-looking dwarf German shepherd finds forever home in Inverness after stay at Munlochy Animal Aid shelter on Black Isle

A unique dog which looks like a fox and has a hole in her heart has found a forever home after being cared for by a Black Isle animal shelter.

Bella is a German shepherd born with dwarfism and suffering a number of health issues which have seen her overlooked for a time while staying with Munlochy Animal Aid.

The shelter's Iona Nicol took in Bella back in October last year after her previous owner had difficulties with skin allergies.

Iona said: "We got a surprise when we first saw her as she's the most fox-like dog we've seen. Lots of people saw her and fell in love with her but given her health issues it could be a heartbreak in the making for a family. It had to be the right person."

And that has turned out to be Audrey Cooper of Inverness who said: "I had been looking for a wee dog for a while. I went to see her and I just knew straight away. I looked at her and she looked at me and I just knew."

Audrey has been given a full briefing by a vet who checked Bella over. She said: "I just wanted to give her a nice home and a chance. She is a friendly wee thing and she helps me a lot. She is missing some hair and people do stop to ask about her when we're out on walks. She has the most beautiful eyes and is so affectionate. She never leaves my side."

Ms Nicol meanwhile said the busy shelter is beginning the year facing the same cost of living challenges experienced by everyone else. That includes £30 a day electricity costs. She said it would continue to fundraise to help cover essential bills and provide the best service it can.

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