overview

Thelma’s Story

Thelma came into the SNAFU Rescue via a breeder release. Her breeder wanted her to be placed in a loving home and spend the rest of her years being a spoiled pet.

Meet Thelma – a lovable, low-key English Bulldog whose idea of a perfect day includes belly rubs, cozy naps, and being as close to her humans as physically possible. With her signature bulldog charm and squishy, soulful face, Thelma is equal parts silly and sweet, with a deeply affectionate heart that’s slowly unfolding as she learns what it truly means to be a beloved companion.

Like many English Bulldogs, Thelma has fully embraced the art of relaxation. She’s not here for marathons or mountain hikes—her version of “adventure” is waddling into the kitchen when she hears the snack bag crinkle. Food is her love language, and nothing brings her more joy than mealtime (except maybe a good couch snooze right afterward). She’ll spin in excited circles when she knows her bowl is about to be filled and will happily supervise all kitchen activities—just in case a treat happens to fall her way.

Though a bit timid in new environments and cautious around unfamiliar noises, Thelma is slowly gaining confidence in her foster home. She’s curious, observant, and clearly taking notes on how to “dog” properly. When you call her name, her tail wiggles with delight as she trots over and flops onto her side, inviting belly rubs and snuggles. She’s a shadow by nature, quietly following you from room to room just to stay close, and she’s always happiest when she’s by your side.

Thelma enjoys emptying the toy box (whether or not she plans to play with anything) and occasionally engages in brief spurts of toy exploration. Bones are an occasional interest, but she much prefers lounging in her favorite spot on the couch or burrowing into a soft blanket. She’s a stage-five clinger who lives for quiet companionship and gentle affection.

Before rescue, Thelma didn’t have the easiest start in life, so she’s still discovering how to be a cherished pet. With the help of a consistent routine and calm environment, she’s made great strides and continues to blossom each day. Because of this, her ideal home will be one that’s patient, low-key, and full of love. A quieter household with older or respectful children would suit her best, as fast movements and loud sounds can startle her. She hasn’t been around very young kids, but with the right family dynamic, she’d likely do just fine.

When it comes to other dogs, Thelma is pretty neutral. She currently lives with a calm French Bulldog foster sister, and while she doesn’t engage in a ton of play, she shows curiosity about what her sister is up to—especially if toys or treats are involved. She may try to snag a toy someone else is enjoying, but it’s all in harmless curiosity, and she redirects easily with a gentle “no.” She’d likely be happy as an only dog or with a mellow canine companion who respects her space.

Thelma hasn’t had formal training, but she’s a smart girl who knows her boundaries and responds well to redirection. She’s gentle, affectionate, and an easygoing presence who just wants to be loved. First-time dog owners who understand the bulldog temperament—and who don’t mind a slower-paced, snuggly sidekick—will find Thelma an absolute joy.

At her core, Thelma is a soft soul with a squishy exterior and a heart that’s ready to trust. With a comfy couch, a patient hand, and a steady routine, she’ll thrive in her forever home and show you just how special life with a bulldog can be.

Thelma’s foster family is thrilled with the progress she’s making in her potty-training journey! With her humans working from home, she’s become accustomed to regular potty breaks every few hours and has quickly learned the routine. She responds well to the phrase “go potty outside” and has even begun walking to the sliding door on her own when she needs to go out. Thelma prefers when her people are nearby while she’s outside, but she’s building confidence and has started venturing out solo for quick potty trips. One of her most helpful cues is her signature little spin—if you see her circling, it’s time to head outside! Her forever family will need to stay consistent with her potty schedule and keep an eye out for her signals to ensure continued success.

Thelma is 100% crate trained and has never had an accident in her crate. Each night after her final potty break, she heads straight to her crate and puts herself to bed without a fuss. During the day, she may need a little encouragement to go in, but once inside she settles quickly and will quietly nap the time away. If she gives a bark or two at first, it’s only temporary—she’s snoozing peacefully in no time. Since Thelma still doesn’t fully understand danger and is learning the ropes of being a pet, we recommend she continue to be crated when left unsupervised or when her humans are away from home. That way, she stays safe and secure. Of course, as the master snuggler she is, Thelma would absolutely love the chance to share a bed with her family—she’s got plenty of love (and snores) to offer for bedtime cuddles.

Medically, Thelma is now in great health! She has been spayed (hernia repaired), had a dental cleaning, updated on vaccinations/dewormings, heartworm tested, microchipped, and has been given the okay to adopt by our veterinarian. Thelma will require ongoing ear and eye care for the rest of her life, but don’t worry—she’s an absolute pro when it comes to her daily routines! Before coming into rescue, Thelma suffered from chronic, untreated ear infections, so it’s essential that her ears are cleaned a few times a week to keep them healthy and infection-free. In addition to ear care, she also needs two daily eye medications: Tacrolimus (a medicated drop) and Optixcare (a lubricating OTC gel) to keep her eyes comfortable and properly moisturized.

Thelma also has allergies, which are currently managed well with daily Zyrtec and Benadryl. Thankfully, her medications are fairly cost-effective and typically last 1–2 months per bottle. While her care routine may sound like a lot, Thelma handles it like a champ and never puts up a fuss—especially if a treat is involved! With just a little extra love and consistency, Thelma’s ongoing care is easy to manage and helps her feel her absolute best.

Thelma is slowly discovering the joys of the great outdoors—and it’s just as adorable as you’d imagine. While she’s still figuring out the whole leash thing (and isn’t exactly a fan of her collar just yet), she’s making steady progress and has shown she’s a great listener when given gentle guidance and encouragement. Her preferred way to enjoy nature? Waddling around a securely fenced yard, soaking in the sunshine, sniffing the breeze, and engaging in short but enthusiastic bursts of zoomies before retiring back to the couch. A fenced yard is strongly preferred for Thelma so she can explore safely and at her own pace, but she’s also done well in unfenced, quiet areas where she can go out to potty and come right back inside when called—especially if a routine is in place.

As a sturdy girl tipping the scales around 47 pounds, Thelma would appreciate a home with minimal stairs—though she can do them when needed and will follow you anywhere, shadow-style. That said, if you’re up for the occasional bulldog carry, she certainly won’t protest. She does well navigating homes with a few steps, but her true dream setup includes a comfy couch, a backyard, and humans who are around most of the time.

Thelma thrives in a calm, low-key home where she can enjoy the slow pace of life. She’d be a perfect fit for someone who works from home, is retired, or simply enjoys a chill lifestyle. She finds comfort in routine, loves being included in daily activities, and truly just wants to be close to her people. Whether you’re working at your desk, relaxing on the couch, or heading from one room to another, Thelma will be right there beside you, happy just to be part of the moment.

She’s still learning to feel confident in new places and with unfamiliar sounds, so a patient family who can give her time to adjust will be key. And while she’s been known to dig through the toy box now and then, her main hobbies are napping, snacking, and soaking up belly rubs. Thelma’s tail starts wagging every time you walk in the room—whether you’ve been gone for five hours or five minutes—and she’ll immediately flop over to request affection.

If you’re looking for a loyal, laid-back companion who adores her people, embraces a good routine, and is happiest curled up on the couch next to you, Thelma is your girl. With a little patience and a whole lot of love, she’ll be the most devoted and delightful snuggle buddy you’ve ever had.

If you feel like your family might be the perfect forever home for Thelma, please submit an adoption application for her today!!