Dog World features archive - August 2011

GSDR - A breed rescue leading by example by Geraldine Cove-Print - featured in Dogworld August 2011

It is a sad fact that many dog rescues, whether breed only or general feel the need to ‘cherry pick’, a term that means in this case that only the easiest to rehome are accepted and therefore a faster turnaround of dogs can be achieved. It is understandable that with limited resources through poor funding of some rescues this is the only way they can survive to help the dogs that come through to them, for other rescues it is about numbers of dogs rehomed to present a more positive public face.

One breed rescue that could never be accused of this is German Shepherd Dog Rescue. Its lists of dogs needing homes and those who have been found lifelong homes is impressive, all the more so because some of these dogs would, I am quite sure, have been put to sleep if they had been in a general rescue without breed specialist knowledge.

Take the case of Spider. This young dog came into GSDR from a large general rescue which felt that as Spider had failed its temperament test he was not able to be rehomed. I am split on this one, I’m delighted that the original rescue had made the effort to put in place a temperament test but dismayed that so little time was given to this dog to show his true colours.

There are many ‘windy’ GSDs out there (for those not in the breed ‘windy’ means nervous or fearful, not a comment on their gastric habits!), sometimes it is an issue with poor breeding but often it is a case of a big, powerful dog in ignorant hands. Such an intelligent breed will take advantage and will certainly make its own mind up as to how to deal with situations unless it is given clear leadership from a skilled source.

Spider was given the care he needed to improve his confidence and allow him to trust. This sort of behavioural back-to-basics can’t happen overnight but Spider, who has been renamed Max, now has a home that suits him and an owner prepared to reinforce the retraining.

Spider snoozing in his basket

Pithy and to the point

With this kind of attention to detail dogs can be rehomed safely. I absolutely love the GSDR website; it really knows how to tell it like it is! The advice on buying a puppy is pithy and to the point, for those looking to rehome a dog the way to do so is spelled out clearly, along with suggestions as to how rehoming your dog may be avoided.

The facts of owning and living with a GSD are carefully put together to give as much information as possible without painting a rosy glow picture. If someone is looking for a GSD chances are they are already a fan and don’t need to be told all the glorious reasons why they should have one.

I spoke to Jayne Shenstone, founder of GSDR, she told me that it is rehoming around 300 dogs a year and she feels very strongly that education is the key to better chances for GSDs, even experienced owners will find something to learn.

Finding homes for an older dog is always difficult but the recession has meant even fewer homes are available and young, healthy dogs are still waiting for the right person to take them. As Jayne says, “It takes patience and understanding to accept a rescue dog into your home, you can’t expect too much too soon”.

I think there is an expectation of bringing a dog home and that somehow a rescue dog will be grateful and fit right in immediately, it just doesn’t happen that way. After the first week or two you might begin to see the real character of the dog, when his paws are under the table! Take a look at the GSDR website at www.germanshepherdrescue.co.uk, the training tips and information on all GSD related conditions are very thorough and make interesting reading.

The GSD has to be one of the most prolific breeds in rescue, not a dog for everyone, their size and natural guarding abilities have made them more difficult to rehome along with Rottweilers.

Spider happy in his new home

At GSDR, we think all German Shepherds deserve a chance of finding a loving home like Spike did. Please don't judge your rescue dog too quickly. He or she will take time to get to know you and your family and settle into their new home. Be patient.

Donations are all ways welcome

Please help us by making a donation so that we can help re home more unwanted German Shepherd Dogs. Donations can be sent to Jayne Shenstone, German Shepherd Rescue Little Vauld, Marden Hereford HR1 3HA. We also accept Paypal payments - just click on the Paypal button below. Thankyou.