In October of 2021, HARTT, a humane animal trapping and rescue organization, received a call about a very untrusting, elusive stray chihuahua in heat that needed to be contained. The dog had taken root under a large, inaccessible garage on private property, to which the owners of had become concerned that the animal would end up pregnant and eventually giving birth there. Seeing the urgency of the situation, HARTT immediately took action to secure this terrified little dog, however, it would turn out to be no easy feat. Weeks would go by, multiple traps and tactics would be deployed, and at some point along the way it became very clear to their team that they were no longer trapping a singular dog. She was pregnant, and the clock was ticking. Our rescue had begun following this dog’s story and offered to take this chihuahua in if HARTT was able secure her… we said “if” but we really meant “when” because, if there’s one thing everybody knows about this trapping group, it’s that they don’t quit until the job is done. Do they get discouraged sometimes? Sure. But give up? NO. WAY. And thank goodness for that because, after TWO MONTHS of undying determination, the efforts of this remarkable team of people had been SUCCESSFUL! The mother-to-be was finally contained and not a moment too soon. Only FOUR DAYS later, she gave birth to five healthy babies in the home of one of our most dedicated foster parents. AND just a few days after that, an overwhelming downpour of rain hit the city of Phoenix… we don’t even want to think about what might have happened if this family hadn’t been rescued in time.

Nelly is now fully vetted and ready to start her forever! Once Nelly is comfortable in her new home, she's affectionate and playful. She adores her humans and loves a good cuddle. After being in the streets for who knows how long, though, Nelly is slow to warm up. She'll need a home that is willing to give her a day or two in a crate to decompress, allowing her space and patience, so that she can learn to trust. Most recently, when she went to a new foster home after weaning her babies, her foster family said this took 2 days, dragging a leash to keep her safe and also crated much of the time so she felt able to relax. Then she was right at home and ready to party!

If you are interested in adopting, please complete an adoption application. We will only be able to email those applicants that are approved to schedule a meet and greet. Thank you in advance for your understanding if you don't hear back from us regarding your application.