When you can't keep your shepherd, start here.
A move, an illness, a loss, a dog whose needs outgrew the home — the reasons are rarely simple. If you're facing the decision to rehome your German Shepherd, we'll help you think it through and, when we have room, bring them into foster care.
Who we can help
We take in German Shepherds and shepherd mixes — that's the breed we know inside and out, and the only one we place. Most of the dogs in our care come from local Washington shelters, where the need never really lets up. Alongside those pulls, we accept vetted owner surrenders as space allows, because we'd much rather help you place your dog with us than watch them land somewhere uncertain.
What to expect
We'll be straight with you, because that's kinder than false hope. Sending a request is the start of a conversation — it isn't a guarantee that we can take your dog. We're a small, all-volunteer rescue, and we're full far more often than not. Foster space is what limits us, and it opens up unpredictably.
When you reach out, we read every message. If we have room and your dog looks like a fit, we'll follow up to learn more and work out the details with you. If we're at capacity, we'll tell you honestly and point you toward other options where we can. Either way, please plan for intake to take some time rather than happen overnight — and if your situation is urgent, say so right at the top of your message.
What to have ready
The more you can tell us about your dog up front, the faster we can make a good decision. Before you write, try to gather:
- Vet and vaccination records. Whatever your clinic has on file, including recent visits.
- Your dog's history. Where they came from, how long you've had them, and how they do with people, kids, other dogs, and cats.
- Proof of spay or neuter. And whether any medical needs are still open.
- Registration or ownership paperwork. Microchip details too, if your dog is chipped.
Don't wait until you have every document in hand to reach out. Send what you've got, tell us what's still coming, and we'll take it from there.