German Shepherd Rescue Of Northern California

German Shepherd Rescue of Northern CA, www.gsrnc.org

Of all the days I spent in my 40+ years as a professional absorbed in the world of government service and politics, none even come close to what i have now experienced in the compassionate world of animal rescue. Experiencing a German Shepherd fresh out of an overcrowded shelter collapse into deep sleep on my living room floor because it is now in a quiet, loving, trusting foster home has put life in perspective for me and my husband. Thanks to the opportunity provided by GSRNC, we now share the joys of having two GSDs of our own and saving the lives of others; a passion we share together as opposed to the individual career paths we once followed. GSRNC not only changes the lives of the dogs it saves but has a dynamic impact on the people who volunteer and adopt in their journey of giving. All contributions to this amazing organization and cause go 100% to supporting the often misunderstood breed - the devoted GSD.
Linda and Jim F., Woodland

Our human world is so complicated, so fraught with contradictions. So, while I support humanitarian causes with my checkbook, I give my time and energy to animals - specifically rescuing German Shepherd Dogs.

GSDs are no more 'deserving' than any other animal in need, but the fact that so many give so much to people in their capacities as guide dogs, service dogs, and military & police dogs, I feel more connected to them. The native intelligence that makes them such good working dogs also makes them real companions, capable of interacting with their 'people' on a truly meaningful level.

Those same 'smarts' and strong work ethic, however, land them in shelters at a fast rate - many people have no idea of the time and energy required to keep these dogs stimulated and engaged and, rather than step up to the plate, sadly choose to abandon them. To see these dogs, who want only to be doing what they're good at, languishing - confused and alone - in a cell breaks my heart.

The rescue I work with - German Shepherd Rescue of Northern California - places great emphasis on getting to know a dog before trying to place it with a new family. Each dog has come from a situation that didn't work for them, so it's our duty to find one that will - that takes learning what each dog needs and matching it with a family that can provide it.

That takes a lot of time and money. GSRNC is all volunteer - every dollar it takes in goes toward rehoming a deserving GSD. And the volunteers work so very hard to give these dogs a chance at a new life. I feel privileged to be a part of it.