Fee-Waived Adoption for Big Momma, a Playful Dog Struggling in a Las Vegas Shelter

Big Momma is a large, tan-and-white female who has been waiting patiently at the Animal Foundation’s Mojave Road campus since late summer.

At first glance, her tucked tail and worried eyes tell the story of a dog overwhelmed by the noise and confinement of shelter life — but that’s only part of who she is.

Fear At First, Then Something Changes

In her kennel, Big Momma struggles. She pants, barks, and paws at the door, clear signs of kennel stress that have grown worse over time despite daily interventions. The shelter environment simply isn’t where she feels safe.

But step outside with her, and a different dog begins to appear.

On a walk, she relaxes slowly, cautiously taking in her surroundings. Then comes the turning point — a ball. The moment it appears, her face softens, her eyes light up, and the fear melts away. She sits politely, tail wagging, waiting for the throw.

A Fetch-Loving Goofball Underneath

Once the ball is tossed, Big Momma transforms. She chases it with enthusiasm, proudly brings it back, and drops it at your feet, ready for the next round. Fetch isn’t just a game for her — it’s the key that unlocks her confidence and joy.

With every throw, her goofy smile returns, her tail wagging nonstop. After playtime, she happily drinks from the hose, calm and relaxed, a far cry from the anxious dog seen behind kennel doors.

What Big Momma Needs To Thrive

Big Momma already knows “sit,” loves toys, and is highly social with staff members. She’s currently working daily with the shelter’s training team on leash skills, basic obedience, and good manners.

She would do best in a calmer home environment with patient adopters who understand anxiety and are willing to continue her training. With consistency and reassurance, she has all the potential to become a confident, happy companion.

She is currently available for a fee-waived adoption, giving her future family a rare chance to focus on the bond — not the cost.

Big Momma’s Shelter Details

• Name: Big Momma
• Age: 3 years
• Sex: Female
• Size: Large
• Weight: 66 lbs
• Colors: Tan and white
• Intake Type: Foster
• Date of Arrival: December 30, 2025
• Pet ID: A1387844
• Kennel: 13A-5213
• Status: Fee-waived adoption
• Location: 655 N. Mojave Road, Las Vegas, NV 89101

A Dog Who Just Needs A Chance

Big Momma isn’t broken — she’s just overwhelmed. Beneath the anxiety is a smart, playful, deeply loving dog who shines the moment she feels safe.

With her adoption fee waived, there’s nothing standing in the way of giving Big Momma the fresh start she’s been waiting for.

For someone willing to offer patience, structure, and a little time with a tennis ball, she could finally leave the shelter behind and step into the happy life she deserves.