This is the story of Ara (whose shelter name was Flossie). She spent most of her young life being used for breeding. When her owner had no more use for her they gave her to Vera. So in Dec 2023 she began living in Vera’s shelter. Here is Aras story as told in “her own words”…..

Ara’s Story… as told by Ara

Hello my true name is Ara, and I’m a German Shepherd with a heart of gold. I was kindly given my shelter name by Debra Humphreys, a name that would become a part of my identity. For many years, I lived a life of breeding and nurturing, being a good mum to my puppies. But one day, my owners in Bosnia decided they no longer wanted me. They took me to Vera Nela Andric Osmic, who kindly took me in and brought me to the shelter.
This is where my story starts. I remember sitting in Vera’s truck, surrounded by dog food, feeling scared and unsure about my future. If Vera hadn’t taken me in, I would have ended up on the streets, forced to fend for myself as a street dog – a daunting thought for a gentle soul like me. But Vera saved me from that fate, and I’m forever grateful.
At the shelter, I settled in and made new friends like Emily, Baxter, Holly, and Della. I even got to spend time with puppies, which wasn’t hard for me given my experience as a mum. I enjoyed life in the shelter, and I was grateful for the care and attention I received. But deep down, I still held onto the hope of finding my forever owner, being the loyal German Shepherd that I am. I longed for a family to call my own, to love and protect. And then, something amazing happened. I was adopted and travelled from Bosnia to England, a long and tiring journey with many other dogs, all of us searching for our forever homes. When I arrived, I was taken to a kennel where I could rest and recover from my journey. I was fed, treated well, and given time to settle in. As I rested, I could feel the excitement building – I was getting ready to meet my forever family. And life had this all planned out for me, bringing me to this moment, where I would finally find my forever home and the love I so deserved. “

“Time waits for no dog”, not even me. I’m now 8 years old, living in beautiful Shropshire with my new family. I was 7 years old when I left Bosnia, a big change for a dog like me. After being handed over to Vera Nela Andric Osmic, I sat in the back of her truck surrounded by dog food, marking the beginning of my new life. Initially, I was heartbroken, watching my longtime owner drive away. The memory still lingers, but it’s a reminder of the journey that brought me to my forever home. Cars became a bit of a trigger for me, reminding me of being taken away from the only life I’d known. But my new family was patient and gentle, helping me to see that cars could be a source of adventure and joy. At first, I’d get a bit anxious when it was time to get in the car, but with each trip, I grew more confident. And now, I love hopping in and out of the car, knowing that I’m always heading home to the people I love.

Life has been a journey of ups and downs, and recently, we faced a bit of a scare when I had to undergo surgery to remove a lump. The vets who took care of me were amazing, and they even call me Princess – it’s a nickname that’s stuck! With the support of the DNV team, Mandy Griffiths, and friends who rallied around us, we got through this tough time together. The wait for the results was nerve-wracking, but thankfully, we got the all-clear after ten long days. What a relief!

With that worry behind us, I’m enjoying every moment with my family and living my best life in Shropshire. I’m one lucky dog to have found a loving home, and I’m thankful for the kindness and love that I’ve received. My best buddy Mango, a tiny Chihuahua, often visits and brings so much joy to my life – I’m a big softie for him!
Now, I spend my days chasing rabbits – I’ll never catch them, but the thrill of the chase is all the fun! I love running free in the beautiful fields of Shropshire, feeling the wind in my fur and the sun on my back. I’ve even had adventures at the seaside, where I enjoyed a paddle in the shallow water, but I’m not too keen on swimming. Give me a field to run in and a rabbit to chase, and I’m the happiest pup in the world!

I love to spend time with my humans of all ages, I’m kind and gentle with them, and I enjoy being part of their playtime and snuggles. I’m happy, I love to run free, and I’m so grateful for my life with Mum and Dad. Rescue isn’t always easy, but with time and patience, it’s worth it for us – the abandoned dogs who find love and a second chance. Thank you to all who brought us together, giving me a second chance at life – Vera and the DNV team, I’m forever grateful

Miss Ara Flossie Princess Morris

(PS Here are some of my pictures from my album … mum takes LOADS of them !)