Hazel

My story

Located in Fort Erie, Ontario Meet Hazel Hazel is an approximately 5 year old, 17 pound, spayed, puppy mill survivor who is finally getting the chance to experience the love and security every dog deserves. Despite the difficult start to her life, Hazel has remained incredibly sweet and gentle, and every day her personality shines a little brighter. Hazel is a wonderful walking companion and walks beautifully on a leash. She enjoys getting out for walks and is calm and easy to handle.  A rural or suburban setting would suit her best.  Urban environments, and all the sights and sounds they bring, are likely to be overwhelming for her.  She would also benefit from having a fenced yard so she can slowly adjust to her new home without needing to go out for walks. Hazel gets along well with other dogs and needs a confident canine companion in her forever home to help her feel safe and continue building her confidence. She's mostly indifferent to cats, although they make her a little nervous, so calm, respectful cats would be the best fit. She's also working on her basic cues. As Hazel continues to settle into life as a beloved pet, she'll benefit from a patient family that understands learning takes time and is happy to let her progress at her own pace. Like many dogs who have experienced neglect, Hazel doesn't like being left alone. She would do best with a family where someone is home most of the time or with adopters who are committed to helping her gradually become more comfortable with alone time.  Hazel will bark when left alone and is NOT suitable for an apartment or home with shared walls.  She may also have poop accidents when left alone. Hazel has overcome so much already, and now she's searching for the one thing she's never truly had—a family of her own. She doesn't need perfection—just someone willing to love her, be patient with her, and celebrate each little milestone along the way. In return, you'll gain one of the sweetest, gentlest companions you could ever hope for. Could Hazel be the missing piece of your family? ❤️ For those interested in adopting one of our puppy mill release dogs, please be aware that these dogs often require extra patience, structure, and ongoing support. Their temperaments and behaviours can vary widely, and for the best outcome, adoptive homes MUST have access to a fully fenced yard and understand that rehabilitation is a gradual process. Many of these dogs have not yet experienced living in a home, regular interaction with people, leash walking, housetraining, or even having a name. All of these new people, environments, and activities can be scary for them and many are flight risks while they adjust.  Leash walks may not even be a safe option for them initially which is why having access to their own fenced yard is essential.  They need a patient adopter who can meet them at their comfort level and gently help them learn how to be a companion animal.   Due to time constraints, we cannot respond to every email asking for more information on a dog. Please carefully review the bio for the dog and our adoption process https://www.speakingofdogs.com/adoption/adoption-process/.  If you are still interested in adopting, please fill out the adoption application form at the bottom of that page.July 21, 2026, 9:52 pm

If you have any questions or would like to adopt Hazel, please reach out to the adoption group directly. PetSmart Charities does not facilitate the adoption process. Thank you.