Waterhorse Dragons received their name due to their horse-like physique and endearing behavior. They are capable of surviving out of water, and when on land their skin secretes a gelatinous goo to retain moisture. However, their large paddle feet are better suited for swimming, and waterhorse dragons tend to move very awkwardly when on land. Waterhorses are very friendly dragons and enjoy playing with humans.

Dragons are highly-intelligent reptilian creatures that—from a human perspective, at least—appear to live forever. Many different varieties of dragon exist, each with their own unique qualities, habitats, and behavior. Adolescence in dragons is usually marked by the growth of a hatchling’s wings, although not all breeds of dragons grow wings and some breeds have other traits that indicate the beginning of maturation. In Galsreim, dragons and humans coexist peacefully.

Shelly takes after her father in that she is very proud, but is more like her mother in how she treats others.  While most of her extensive family would rather splash and play and let others do the work of protecting and feeding the flock, Shelly has found a vocation in raising any abandoned eggs and hatchlings she stumbles upon.

Depending on how many young dragons there are to raise at a time, she often uses her status of Relana's eldest child to persuade others into helping her.