German Shepherd dogs, as well as the other herding breeds that we have in rescue, are highly active, energetic, working breeds. They require considerable vetting, exercise, socialization, training, leadership and mental stimuli in order to be well-adjusted, well-balanced, and well-mannered dogs. Even if you exercise and play with your dog daily in your fenced yard, you MUST still take your dog out on daily walks and outings in order to work on his/her leash skills, manners, and social skills. These breeds make great additions to active families who will pamper them, but who will also work with them, as they are smart dogs who need leadership, structure, plenty of activity and mental stimulation. 

If you are new to German Shepherds (and other herding breeds), please research the breed to make sure this is the dog for you. We ask that you consider the time and financial commitment that your German Shepherd (or other herding breed) dog will require before applying for one. Please review the section on our website (www.heartlandgsrescue.org) "Is a HUGS Dog Right for You?" for additional information.

Mia is an adorable little 6 and 1/2 year old miniature Poodle that we rescued from a high kill shelter in California with the help of our friends from Miracle GSD Rescue. 

Sweet Mia is extremely sweet and everyone who meets her falls in love with her! She's  undemanding, yet she is a great companion in the house and gets along with all visitors, human and canine. Mia was quite the mess when she arrived. She had terrible ear infections that took months to clear up, skin allergies and a poorly neglected coat, and a terrible urinary tract infection. She was obese and had lab values that indicated potential kidney disease, and poor dentition (she required an in depth dental cleaning and several teeth extractions).

Luckily, that’s all behind her. That's to a good diet (she eats renal food). portion control, exercise, good vet care, and hygiene, Mia is now thriving. She has lost 3 lbs, and looks svelte and is fit and athletic, Her lab values are greatly improved, and she's and looking and feeling great! 

Like all dogs we have in rescue, this sweetie would make a great addition to an active home that will provide the love, structure, good leadership, activity and mental stimulation that she needs. Even if you exercise and play with your dog daily in your fenced yard, please remember that you MUST still take your dog out on daily walks and outings, in order to provide sufficient stimulation, ward off boredom, and work on leash skills, and manners.

Mia's adoption fee is $350, all of which goes back into offseting our high-cost vetting expenses and rescuing more dogs. Adoption fees include spay/neuter, current on age-appropriate vaccinations, fecal, deworming, flea/tick and heartworm preventative, heartworm tested if old enough (treated if positive), and microchipped. Learn more about the adoption process and requirements, and apply at: http://heartlandgsrescue.rescuegroups.org/info/adoption.