Ellie

My story

Meet Eleanor (Ellie), a 5–6 year old black Lab mix weighing about 45 lbs. She’s spayed, vaccinated, and microchipped — and she’s ready for her forever home. Ellie’s rescue journey began on March 15th when she was found injured in the desert, likely hit by a car and left to fend for herself. She made her way to a home seeking help and was taken in by Pinal County Animal Care and Control. There, staff discovered she had a dislocated hip and open wounds. Her wounds were treated and her hip was manually replaced, but it wouldn’t stay in place. She needed surgery the shelter couldn’t provide and was placed on the euthanasia list unless a rescue stepped in. Desert Paws answered that call. Our director spotted her online, and the next morning a volunteer drove out to pick her up as soon as the shelter opened. Ellie was terrified and unsure, but she was finally safe. At our vet, X‑rays confirmed she needed an FHO (femoral head ostectomy) — a surgery that removes the damaged femoral head to relieve pain and allow muscle to form a comfortable, functional joint. While waiting for surgery, Ellie stayed with a foster who helped her learn that the world isn’t so scary. At first she had to be carried outside due to fear, but soon she learned to enjoy soft grass under her feet instead of hot asphalt. After surgery, she moved to a foster experienced in FHO recovery and did wonderfully. Once healed, she returned to her original foster home — and her favorite part — the cats and kittens. Ellie adores cats and proudly considers herself a kitten momma. Ellie is sweet, affectionate, eager to please, and a total couch cuddler. She enjoys teens, loves car rides, prefers a calm home, and would thrive with someone home often. She’s crate‑trained, smart, and has lovely manners. She still needs support building confidence, so an adopter with dog experience is ideal. If you’re interested in adopting Eleanor, please submit a consultation form. Serious inquiries only. Meet‑and‑greets will take place at her foster home. Ellie is a courtesy post for Valley Dogs Rescue, but please email or contact the Desert Paws directly. Fill in a consultation form through our website: DesertPawsRescue.org (480) 380-5214 info@desertpawsrescue.org

If you have any questions or would like to adopt Ellie, please reach out to the adoption group directly. PetSmart Charities does not facilitate the adoption process. Thank you.