BROWARD COUNTY, Fla. – A timid but lovable puppy named Nadia is capturing hearts at the Humane Society of Broward County, and staff members are hoping she’ll find a permanent home soon — just in time for Memorial Day Weekend.
Nadia, a 13-week-old pup believed to be part Shar Pei, was transferred to the shelter from another facility and may have come from a backyard breeding situation.
Shelter staff say she arrived under-socialized and with patchy skin likely caused by poor nutrition and outdoor living conditions.
“She’s incredibly shy and quiet, but you can tell she’s soaking everything in,” said HSBC’s Cherie Wachter. “With a little TLC, proper nutrition, and some oatmeal baths, we know she’ll blossom.”
Despite some mild skin issues, Wachter said Nadia’s coat is still soft and her health is improving. At 11 pounds now, she’s expected to grow to about 40–55 pounds.
Nadia’s calm demeanor makes her different from most puppies her age, and Wachter emphasized the importance of early socialization to help her personality develop.
Puppy training classes, she said, can be a game changer.
“A lot of people think they can just teach their dogs at home, but group classes help puppies learn how to behave around other dogs — which is so important,” Wachter said.
The Humane Society is also experiencing an influx of kittens, with nearly three dozen felines under six months old currently available for adoption.
“It’s kitten season across the country, and we have so many adorable ones right now,” Wachter said.
All pets adopted from the Humane Society of Broward County — including puppies and kittens — are spayed or neutered, microchipped, and receive their first set of vaccinations.
With a long weekend ahead, shelter staff are encouraging families to consider adopting and spending that extra time bonding with a new furry friend.
More information on Nadia and other adoptable pets can be found at www.humanebroward.com