Bella joined the family in August of 2019 after Lexi, one of Luann’s previous goldens, passed suddenly from cancer. Like all four of Luann’s previous female goldens, Bella had been used as a puppy mill breeder girl prior to her arrival at DVGRR (Delaware Valley Golden Retriever Rescue). She adjusted well to life in her new home. Bella learned quickly from her big brother and mentor (Goofy, 2005-2020) and followed in his footsteps earning her therapy dog certification in no time. She loves people and loves her work. As a therapy companion, you may have run into Bella working many area community events, assisting students in one of our local schools or libraries, helping with relaxation at student or corporate de-stress sessions, or visiting with staff, patients, and families at Christiana Care and Helen Graham Cancer Center. At 14 years old she is still a sassy senior. She loves people, playing, visiting, the beach, soaking up the sun, and treats. Chances are very good that you will see Bella on the campaign trail!
Margarita joined our family in late February of 2020 just before all of the COVID craziness arrived. She was 4 years old and spent her life as a breeder girl in an Amish puppy mill in Ohio before making her way to DVGRR. Now 10 years old, she can still be very shy and scared around new people, new places, or on leash, but once she gets to know you, she’s a crazy little lovebug—all traits typical of a former puppy mill breeder girl. She isn't a fan of car rides; she's definitely more of a homebody. Margarita is a silly girl who is very happy being queen of the sofa and loves watching TV.
Indy joined our family at 4 months old in the middle of the COVID pandemic. He made his way to DVGRR after a family, unfamiliar with puppies or puppy mills, purchased him during the pandemic and turned him over to rescue with multiple health issues after just 2 months. Luann made her annual trip to deliver Christmas donations to DVGRR and somehow Indy ended up in her car, joining our family (there's a funny story behind this—ask Luann if you see her). Indy passed his therapy dog test a few months later and started visiting the inmates at Vaughan Correctional Center in Smyrna. He loves toys, treats, visiting with Luann's husband Doug and other Firefighters at Mill Creek, and running with Doug at the Reservoir, Bryan's Trail, and White Clay Creek State Park.