In Honor of Bella - Elephant Sanctuary in Tennessee Slideshow

[BgMsDangerus]

I still cry when I see Bella on your uploads or think of Bella's passing and the grief her best friend Tarra is having. Its good to hear that Shirley and her other sisters are supporting her in her time of grief. Elephants are such wonderful creatures so capable of so much love. I cry and mourn with Tarra for her loss of Bella.

[PugKloks]

Bella is waiting for Tarra at the Rainbow Bridge.  Run fast run free Bella.

[msdianetaylor]

cant stop crying, poor tarra must miss bella so, so sorry for your loss. can only say that iam sure bella is looking down and missing you all. god bless you for the work you all do

[DiZimmer]

Amazing tribute.....and truly an amazing story.......thank you for all the work you do and thank you for sharing Bella and Tara's story.......as an animal lover I am continually awe struck with how powerful animals are and what we as humans can learn from them......thank you again.

[animalvidsforyou]

Thats ashame. You really shouldn't have let Bella run around with Tarra like that, you should have only had her in a certain place where Tarra can see her. If you would have kept her in a safer area, I am sure should would still be alive today. Not to be mean, but This is just so sad for me.

[ECKeefe]

I am so sorry for your loss. This breaks my heart! I hope Tarra is doing well.

[KursaTime]

My condolesences to Tarra. RIP Bella, Tarra and all of us will miss you so much!

You showed us what true friendship is. :'(

[Lesjulie]

It’s well past a week since I discovered Bella’s passing. I wept and felt extremely sad because I’m extremely fond of dogs. Their faithfulness and affection for those they love never fail. I didn’t know a lot about elephants until I read the touching story between Bella and Tarra and then I discovered they are warm and loving beings as well. I hope sweet Tarra is gradually recovering from her period of grief. Dear sweet Bella, I love you always.

[erfinkle]

this really freaks me out i have a dog named bella it makes me imagine her dead...well, r.i.p bella you were totally a-w-e-s-o-m-e and tarra probably misses u but one day you'll meet again :)

[angiehristova79]

What a true test of the power of love between Tara and Bella! I'm sad that Bella is gone, but her spirit will never leave. Send all the best to Tara!

[kellyb4]

I can't believe Tarra carried her back home. Such love between those two. So amazing and yet so sad how a beautiful friendship ending so suddenly. I hope Tarra finds some comfort with her elephant companions now that her doggie companion is gone. I can't stop crying over this. I was just thinking about these two and had no idea this had happened.

[speshalkinca]

r.i.p. Bella, and bless your furry little heart for the joy you brought to us all, especially Tarra

[Christymarcrum]

What a Beautiful Story about True Friendship. We can learn some of the most Important Lessons from our Animal Companions, if only we would take the time to listen and observe..... Praying that Tara will find comfort and Peace during her remaining time on this Earth. Rest In Peace sweet Bella....

With Much Love, Christy

[zigg99]

Saw this a while back. I'm heartbroken for her. I Was wondering how Tara is doing now? I wish she knew how many of us love her.

[elephantsanctuarytn]

@zigg99 Thank you for your concern for Tarra. Like anyone who grieves, she’s been a little more reserved lately, but her elephant sisters are taking good care of her! You can read more about her progress in our last few Ele-Notes postings: elephants[dot]com/eleNotes.php

[lovsoup]

@elephantsanctuarytn Aww Thank you... makes me tear thinking about Tara, Glad her elephant sisters are caring for her. makes he happy to hear :))

[zigg99]

@elephantsanctuarytn

It is so amazing to see how animals love and care for each other. We could learn a lot from them. I'm glad she has her sisters there to help her cope.

[Butternut121]

This is so sad.... what an amazing friendship... God Bless!

[Seasonchange1]

Such a beautiful friendship. They'll be together again one day. God Bless you little Bella. Tara is the sweetest thing.

[Fondmemory]

May I know how old was Bella when he passed away? I am greatly touched by the friendship between Bella and Tarra. I am saddened on hearing the passing of Bella. I pray there is heaven for animals just as there is one for human beings. I pray that Bella and Tara will be united in heaven one day. I

[suzypenguin]

This story was so very touching and their love and devotion towards each other is inspiring and shows the beauty of what our animals will experience with us in heaven one day! I'm lighting my candle for sweet Bella who is now a beautiful "furangel" and she will watch over her best friend Tara until they can be reuninted again for eternity. Thank you for sharing this incredible story. The world is a much better place having had Tara and Bella in it!!! Bless the sanctuary!

[chrlygrl06]

I'm so so sad over this...:( It totally broke my heart. I loved the friendship between these two. Its always been a story between 2 animals that I have treasured and watching those videos of them together is so remarkable and loving to see. RIP dear sweet loving Bella.....you were loved by so many and will be terribly missed especially by Tarra.

[dobermann1973]

now both are free of the suffering of this earth . they can play and be free again .

[bloojeanz]

:`(



[gravekeepers07]

Honored with great respect and heartfelt always.



[oldshirley]

So sad, but we knew Tarra would lose Bella at some point-just not so soon. I'm so glad I have Tarra and Bella items from the Sanctuary gift store. They bring lovely memories of an unique animal friendship.

[malli954]

What a beautiful tribute. I pray that Tarra finds healing soon. I'm terribly saddened by the news, such a huge loss :(

[feedthedoggies]

I'm so, so sorry for the loss of Bella. I weep. God Bless Tarra for taking care of her over the years.... Sweet, sweet Bella... tears.

[lovsoup]

HOW IS TARRA DOING?? Can't imagine how she's doing right now. I'm sure she knew when Bella as sick

[elephantsanctuarytn]

@lovsoup Thank you for asking about Tarra. Like anyone who grieves, she’s been a little more reserved lately, but her elephant sisters are taking good care of her! You can read more about her progress in our last few Ele-Notes postings: elephants[dot]com/eleNotes.php

[georgethewondermutt]

My heart breaks for this horrible and sudden loss of Bella. I know the sanctuary staff are saddened and of course her best friend Tarra. I hope Tarra finds her next best bud soon to soften the loss. Elephants care life people and suffer heartache. Thi is such a wonderful place for elephants needing to live out their lives in peace after so much abuse. Hugs and kisses to everyone there.

[ImagoCanis]

Stop making me cry!!! DDDD':

[Goodwith2005]

She didin't just die...she was killed by a pack of coyotes...RIP Bella

[TheBassUp]

I just wished Bella didnt have to go they way she did...Im not religious but if there is a heaven, I hope Bella and Tara will reunite one day.

[ohio3490]

My heart is breaking at hearing this sad news...Tarra and Bella touched my heart deeply from the first time I learned of this beautiful and heartwarming friendship. I am so grateful to all of you loving and caring people who take care of these wonderful creatures.

RIP Bella...I'll never forget about you.....PS If there are any other dogs there is there anyway that they could be put in a fenced housing area in the eve thru the early morning hrs when the coyotes are usually out?

[Lesjulie]

@ohio3490 I have the same thought as you. Can the wonderful staff of the sanctuary think of giving a safer shelter for the stray dogs in the area so that they'll less likely be attacked by other wild animals at night? I would like to thank the staff, however, for giving a shelter to the elephants and stray dogs when they have suffered so much pain from physical or mental abuse in the human world.

[lovsoup]

I don't have much money to spend, but Bella & Tarra have inspired me so much to donate some R.I.P. Bella.... may Tarra's heart heal quickly. We are thinking of you!!

[lovsoup]

My heart aches for Tara... R.I.P. Bella... your friendship was Amazing and Humans could learn so much from you!!

[NativePrairieWolf]

Lets NOT assign a blame to "coyotes" with out PROOF.

Bella likely died of natural causes- she was at the sactuary 8 years and her age when she first appeared was unknown.

She could have been upwards of 11 or more years old now and died. Coyotes or even the other stray dogs around there certainly would have fed on a dead animal they come across. Coyotes are mainly carrion feeders.

[dsaypie]

Thanks for sharing...thanks for loving...all the beautiful animals, the incredible friendships and loving relationships...I'm so glad Tarra and Bella were so close and had some years together. I'm so sad for Tarra and the blessed Sanctuary. Always in my heart. With gratitude and love, namaste.

[chayakkada]

R.I.P Bella. Praying for Tara to heal sooner. God bless both these wonderful souls. <3

[Jbrown6370]

I am sadden by the loss of Bella. I have watch her and Tarra through videos since the first one. As an elephant lover I know that Tarra is very sad and is in mourning for her friend, but I know she has everyone at the sanctuary to consul her and give her the love that she needs and since Elephants are so smart I know she knows that she will see her beloved friend again. Much love to all at the sanctuary for what you do every day!

[eugenelamar]

I'm so sad for Tarra she lost her best friend! Rest in Peace Bella! I will pray for Tarra that she will heal. I'm still crying!!! :( God Bless you!!

[Griwhoolda]

What a beautiful tribute.

I'm so sad.

But happy that Tarra and Bella had each other.

[MichaelTrumpetPlayer]

I saw the report on CBS News tonight. I'm still crying.

[temkonitazen]

So unbelievably sad :( They will be together again one day.

[teirs68]

we need to get her another puppy

[stacieg38]

R.I.P. Beautiful Bella!!

[ashleyrhodus]

Animals like these two are the closet to God. Why can't humans be so humane:( I am just beside myself, a true deep cry, so bittersweet. Obviously, some creatures are way above and beyond that of people. They know so much more of what is real and what is good. Maybe someday our world will be right and we will all be as they. No malice, no greed. What honorable beings, these two, the symbol of what we all should yearn to be...WOW

[ashleyrhodus]

Animals like these two are the closet to God. Why can't humans be so humane:(

[carmencorrigan]

How sad. My heart aches.  Thank you for this video.

[terrylou65]

I don't know how anyone cannot be touched by the story of Bella and Tarra's very special bond. The photos are amazing. Bella has now crossed the rainbow bridge and will be waiting there for Tarra when it's her turn.

[stellarworker]

You folks at Elephant Sanctuary did a wonderful job with the photos. Thank you so much.

Bella is in heaven, but Tarra will see Bella again....in time.

Bless all of you for doing good work at your sanctuary.

[3535kevin]

And a grown 53 year old man cries. See like the guy said in a different video, If people could live this way the world would be a better place.

[rotfl0l1]

If only humans so different in many ways could find the things they have in common - and learn that freedom comes with acceptance not hate!

[Suzan4B]

Thank you clovers weed for brining me to this most beautiful friendship. RIP Bella.

[TheKingMaru]

Tarra's best friend, R. I.P little one you are greatly missed.

[dogsandcats42]

Dear Tarra, I lost my best friend last month and I understand your grief. We can not replace them but we can love them. God bless you and keep you.

[stardustlace]

I'm so heartbroken. Words cannot begin to describe how sad I feel. Bella you were a very special dog and an inspiration to all. Your beautiful friendship with Tarra will never be forgotten. Rest in Peace sweet girl xx

[mitch449]

RIP Bella, God bless you and your elephant friend :(

[onekinkstar]

Dearest Bella, Tarra was your friend until the end, because she brought you home to die . . . The love and tenderness you two shared will never be forgotten. It will forever the envy of those of us who were honored to witness the glory of it all.

You ran free in the Sanctuary fields and woods Bella. Keep running now girl, bouncing on the clouds and meeting up with the other girls there . . . and Ned too! 

Thank you Bella, we will miss you.

[PhoenixMattGFan]

There are many earthy angels. Bella was Tarra's angel. God has taken her home too soon. I pray another loyal friend be sent to be with Tarra soon!

[allisonewe]

I am so sorry and sad to hear the passing of Bella..i followed these two through videos for a long time..i remember how Tarra would wait for Bella at times that Bella was ill...it was so sad...bless The Sanctuary for loving and giving these two such a wonderful life..this really breaks my heart, but as we know...this is the cyle of life..may i ask how Tarra is doing? I know she is heartbroken in extreme grief...so very sad..GOD BLESS ALL ANIMALS and GOD BLESS THE ELEPHANT SANCTUARY...kisses

[VerusiunctiO]

@allisonewe So sad to hear about the passing of Bella and how Tarra would wait for her when she was ill. GOD bless indeed all animal sactuaries and those who care for them and fight for their cause.

[elephantsanctuarytn]

@allisonewe Thank you for your support and expressing your concern for Tarra. Like anyone who grieves, she’s been a little more reserved lately, but her elephant sisters are taking good care of her! You can read more about her progress in our last few Ele-Notes postings: elephants[dot]com/eleNotes.php

[cstrout110]

I never knew of this friendship till today...such a blessing from God to have this happen. My sincere condolences for the the loss of Belle.

[onekinkstar]

@cstrout110 Be sure you go through and watch all their videos of being out in the fields together. Theirs was a special kind of love! Their story went round the world and will never be forgotten.

[sohcsarewicked]

I think bella was one of the most important friends to elephants. I bet more people got interested in Elephants from the News story than any zoo or circus or book ever did for elephants.

[debbiedel1953]

As I watch the video tears begin to fall down my face....I am so very sorry to learn of sweet Bella's untimely passing. My deepest sympathies to her care givers and most importantly to Tarra - I have no doubt that Tarra is missing her friend and will feel the loss for a long time. Rest in peace Bella - you brought sunshine into your world and taught us all about compassion and acceptance.

[Waikikimarie]

I only know Bella thru her photos. But she touched my heart. God Bless

[abaga1234]

Rest in peace Bella!!

[desertcafe]

Tears for Bella and Tarra. Such a sad end to such a beautifully sweet story. Heartbreaking.

[shamou607]

This is so sad!!! Bella is so cute and I'm sure she is greatly missed.

[bjgarrett6]

this breaks my heart, i've enjoyed the videos, the magic love and care you provide for the elephants, thank you.

[moonhusky]

If different species can share the earth & walk a path in harmony why can't humans?

I remember the joy I felt learning of Bella & Tarra's friendship a few years back.

RIP Bella

Tara's sorrow is a testament to their special relationship and I hope it eases w/ the comfort of her guardians and sister/family.

[savingthem]

RIP sweet Bella. we have learned a lot from you and Tara.

[merlepoo]

So Sad ;' ( ... My Sincere Condolences! 

[ilovelennnyk]

Wait how did Bella died?

[dulgerom1953]

@ilovelennnyk According to the web site and e-mail notice, Bella strayed from Tarra's side one night and was attacked by what they think were coyotes. She died before Tarra could get to her. Bella's body was found by the barn she and Tarra used. There was blood on the bottom of Tarra's trunk. It appears that Tarra found Bella's body and carried her buddy's body home during the night. Even further proof how amazing elephants are. Namaste Bella.

[desertcafe]

@ilovelennnyk Most likely coyotes, in the middle of the night. Tarra carried Bella's body back to the barn, their home. :(((((((

[patclaudowen]

Tarra and everyone at the Sanctuary. My sincere condolances. So sorry for your loss of such a wonderful creature. May she rest in peace and have a blast whereever she is. I hope she and Tarra will meet again some day

[LoveStormyNights]

Sweet, playful, precious Bella...your story touched the hearts of many. Tarra's final act of friendship showed just how beautiful the bond was between the two of you. May you rest in peace and may Tarra find comfort in her ele-sisters and caregivers ♥

[sandeestreasures]

aww Rest in Peace Bella. This is a very touching video. Makes me sad.

[sharpelbows]

Rest in Peace, Sweet Bella. You always reminded me of my sweet Chelsea who passed way too young. You are surely having a good time in Heaven.

[KrystyneY]

Poor Bella, such a horrible death, but she is at peace. It's Tarra for whom I am so sad. I would love some news on her activities now that her best friend is gone.

[onekinkstar]

@KrystyneY I'm sure Shirley will take care of Tarra now. All those girls are very caring, sensitve to each others needs and seem to move in closer as needed.

[nllleonard]

Tears for Bella....and more tears for Tarra. Thank you for all you did for both of these magnificent creatures. Love, NAncy

[tinytina333]

This is really heartbreaking.....what a bond they shared. Tarra cared for her to the very end..

[erbackfineart]

So sad :( Crying xoxo

[Swedetres]

They were indeed soul mates...............xxxxxxxxxx

[oldshirley]

So so sad. What a beautiful friendship. Thank goodness for all these video memories. There will be a Bella memorial donation spot on the Sanctuary site.

[MegF142857]

RIP sweet Bella

[catsinhouse]

My deepest sympathies to the Elephant Sanctuary Family on the loss of dearest Bella and especially for Tarra. She was a precious little one - a treasure.

[vzmkitty]

I am so sorry for your and Tara's loss. The story of Bella and Tara is south a touching one, it's heartbreaking it had to end. I wish you all the very best during this difficult time.

[lisacc1000]

So sorry to hear about Bella. I hope that Tarra will be OK - what a huge loss in her life. What a sweet story the two of them shared. It's a shame that dogs don't live as long as elephants...

[xxpuaraxx]

@lisacc1000 the dog did not die of old aged

[tobiasmom1]

I'm so sorry to hear this. Bless Tarra and the rest of Bellas family. My heart goes out to you all and will keep you all in my prayers

[lucycatism]

For further information regarding Bella's death, go to the Elephant Sanctuary's website where you will get the full and accurate story of what happened to Bella.

[atomicLogic]

♥♥ Rest in Paradise Bella ♥♥

[ASSEMblerEX]

She was attacked by a coyote. Tarra carried her all the back to the barn, but

before anyone found her she passed. Poor tarra must be inconsolable.

[vzmkitty]

@ASSEMblerEX Oh my god, that's so sad! Poor Tarra, but what a wonderful thing she did trying to save her friend. Heartbreaking!!

[TomTresh2]

I was so sad to hear this heart-breaking news. My prayers to the wonderful people who take care of these precious animals, and to Bella & Tarra, I will continue to enjoy Bella & Tarra through the magic of video. God Bless all of you.

[lucycatism]

Namaste, precious girl Bella. The email that I just received from the Sanctuary describes what tragically happened to her. The tears just won't stop, Tarra will miss you so much. Oh, so much sadness. Janice M

[eHalleyb08]

Their friendship was so inspiring. I am so sorry to hear of the loss of Bella.

[lovesbriardi]

Oh poor dear Tarra. I hope she is doing okay and know she is missing her friend. Is she aware that Bella is gone? Does she have any elephant friends to help her through this period? I have been so concerned a couple years because dogs live such a shorter lifespan.Humans should have such a great friendship as these two have shared.

[Rakshaming]

RIP Bella.

[Rakshaming]

I'm so sorry to hear Bella has died.

[janruggi]

This is a beautiful tribute to Bella

[ncalegari]

oh, my. i'm devastated. how will tarra cope. is she okay? what happened to bella?

[xxpuaraxx]

@ncalegari attacked by wiled anamals 

[onekinkstar]

@ncalegari They believe Bella was probably attacked by coyotes out in the fields. Tarra had blood on her trunk, so she must have brought Bella home to the barn, where she died before anyone knew to help her. They were the best of friends right to the end, and Tarra took care of her as best she could.  It's a sad ending to a beautiful love story. Go to their website for more details and pictures.