Marina - Mixed Breed Dog for Adoption in Wheeling, Illinois

Marina is at our shelter. Please submit an application from our website or just come in to meet her during open hours!

You know that feeling, when you've had a long day, and you go home and your dog curls into you and all your cares melt away? That's Marina. She is only 2 years old, but feels like an old soul. Marina is snuggly and quiet. She's a warm hug. A mug of hot cocoa. A fluffy blanket for your soul.

Marina LOVES people, primarily because humans possess hands, and hands have fingers with which to give her butt scritches! Marina is so funny because she will come up to you, and then swiftly turn around to present her hind quarters to you for some scritchin'. Marina is such a chill girl, we just love her relaxed vibes! She is very sweet with dogs, and enjoys their company. She is not super into playing or rough-housing, but likes to be in their company and lounge while they do most of the running around! This is a true lady of leisure!

Marina walks so well on leash, too. it is such a pleasant experience to take her for a stroll.

Marina came to us from our shelter partner in rural Alabama. It's remote, not a place people trek out to adopt dogs. It doesn't matter how ready a dog is to love someone (or multiple someones!) with all their heart, they aren't likely to get that chance.

We are so fortunate to be able to give Marina that chance here at Heartland! Are you that someone, or those someones? Marina is ready for you!

Marina's adoption fee is $300. This animal is spayed and up to date on core vaccines.

Marina is Heartworm positive and is undergoing treatment with us. Heartland will cover the cost of treatment until she is Heartworm negative.

Heartworm disease is common in dogs throughout the United States. It is a mosquito-borne disease and is not contagious to humans or other pets.

We treat dozens of heartworm positive dogs a year, mostly from the south. If left untreated, heartworm infection can be deadly. However, her Heartworm infection was identified and is being treated, and the prognosis is excellent.

Heartworm disease is both preventable and curable. Once cured, a normal quality of life can be expected.

It is important for all dogs to stay on lifelong Heartworm prevention, as even Heartworm positive dogs can be reinfected at any time if not current on preventions.

Marina is on a 28 day course of antibiotics, after which she will receive three injections to treat her Heartworm (the first one will be on 9/29/26; with the final two on 10/27 and 10/28). All treatments will take place at our shelter with our veterinarian.

That will complete the treatment, but she will need a quick retest at the adopter's vet 9 months post-treatment to make sure that she is Heartworm-free.

The mixed breed dogs, often referred to as mutts, are a diverse and unique group with a blend of different characteristics from various purebred dog breeds. These dogs come from a mixture of lineages, resulting in a wide range of sizes, coat types, and temperaments. While each mixed breed dog is distinct in its own right, they are known for their resilience, adaptability, and often have fewer health issues compared to purebred dogs due to their genetic diversity. Mixed breed dogs make wonderful companions for families looking for a loyal and one-of-a-kind pet.

Heartland Animal Shelter is a no-kill shelter and a non-profit, 501(c)(3) organization.  We depend on your donations in order to...