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.

A lady passed away last year in rural Oklahoma outside of City limits where animal control goes, and unfortunately her dogs were left behind to fend for themselves, hanging around an empty house. The neighbors feed them the best they could, but could not afford to any vet care or to get them fixed. Some of the dogs died. Two of them had litters and the babies didn't make it. Ethan and the ones that survived were in terrible condition: emaciated, mangy, loaded with fleas and ticks, scars, dried blood, and pressure sores, broken/missing teeth from eating rocks, nails curled into pads, and unfortunately, all tested positive for Heartworm Disease and are undergoing treatment for that as well.  

Ethan, an approximately 8 yo GSD mix who has had a pretty rough life prior to rescue, could not be any sweeter, or more grateful to be with us. He loves being taken care of. He is a calm, mellow boy, who gets along with all other animals (dogs, cats, even chickens!). Although being a mature gentleman, he definitely prefers other calm, laid-back pups like himself. He is a tiny bit shy at first, but warms up to everyone with proper introductions, and is a very sweet, loyal boy. He is an absolutely adorable guy, who these days, often wears a smile on face! He has been regrowing his coat, putting on weight, and is even learning how to play with toys!

Like all German Shepherds, this darling boy would make a great addition to an active home that will provide the love, structure, good leadership, activity and mental stimulation that she needs. Because of that, Ethan's ideal owner will have prior GSD, or similar breed experience. 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.

Ethan's adoption fee is $275, 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.