Congrats to Grateful Rescue alum, Bella!

Jul 6
1 min read

Updated: Jul 23

Indiana Rescue Yorkie Bella Competed for National Pet Award

A tiny rescue dog from Indiana is proving that big things really do come in small packages.

Bella, a 5-year-old Yorkshire Terrier from Red Key, Indiana, has been selected to represent the Hoosier State in the national Pet Awards competition.

Bella’s journey began at Grateful Rescue and Sanctuary in Muncie, where Carolyn Pope adopted her two years ago. Although Pope wasn’t actively searching for another dog after losing her Chihuahua Annie, one look at Bella changed everything.

When Grateful Rescue founder Pamela Terhune showed Pope photos of the little Yorkie, she knew there was something special about her.

Bella quickly became part of the family — winning hearts with her expressive eyes, confident personality and signature prance. Pope says Bella loves attention, stays calm in almost any situation and even slept through Fourth of July fireworks.

The Pet Awards competition is a fan-voted national contest featuring pets from across the country. Bella was chosen as Indiana’s representative and competed for the national title during online voting. She finished in 24th place - a great showing!

For Pope, the competition was about more than winning. It’s also a chance to celebrate rescue animals and support the organizations working to save them.

From rescue pup to national spotlight, Bella is showing the country just how special Indiana pets can be.