Nadia, an approximately 6-year-old female basset hound (possible mix), came to GGBR in June 2023 from the Kings County Shelter where she was an unclaimed stray. Her skin was rough, itchy, smelly and she was missing hair over much of her body. In addition, immediately upon intake, Nadia was diagnosed with pyometra, a serious infection of the uterus, requiring emergency surgery. 

The dark coloring on Nadia's face and lower body is not her coat; it is her bare skin. Even after two years of treatment, no significant hair growth has taken place. Her dermatologist believes that the long term damage done to Nadia's skin will likely prevent her hair coat from ever coming back; she will always be as bald as she is now. From a distance, her "unusual markings" usually draw attention.

At this point, Nadia's symptoms are well controlled. Nadia follows an immunotherapy protocol, which consists of daily oral administration of a liquid preparation of her “top 12” allergens. She also takes two other oral medications three days/week (Monday, Wednesday and Friday). Consequently, she will require a home that is willing to continue her medications and baths and to monitor her for flare-ups.

Nadia is very friendly and affectionate with the family, but is a bit standoffish with strangers. She gets along with other dogs in the home, but is reactive to other dogs when on a leash, and will growl and lunge at them. She has begun some training to address her leash reactivity, but has not yet overcome that issue. An adopter who wishes to take Nadia for walks in public should be prepared to continue her training. Otherwise, Nadia would be best in a a home where she does not require frequent leash walks. She is somewhat defensive of her personal space toward other dogs, when lying down. 

Nadia tolerates the dog-savvy cat in her foster home, but would almost certainly chase a cat that runs from her. 

Nadia would love a home where she gets a lot of affection and attention, but she exhibits no separation anxiety, so she tolerates being left alone. She loves sleeping in the sun and, in fact, seems to seek out warm conditions. She is very adept at wrapping herself up in blankets, so that she is completely hidden, as pictured in one of the accompanying photos. She loves wearing a coat during cold weather.