LOLA was originally saved in February 2018 when the Humane Society in TX contacted GaDaH asking us to take in a bonded pair who were owner surrenders as they could no longer afford them. Both dogs were transported to the rescue in Maine where they settled in great with the other dogs. On 11th March they were adopted together and left the pack. Unfortunately things didn't work out and both dogs were returned to the rescue on 18 May 2018.

LOLA  is spayed, core vaccines, rabies, de-wormed, heartworm tested negative and micro-chipped. She has an estimated date of birth of 14 February 2015 and weighs around 70.00 pound. She is listed as German Shepherd Dogs. We have no way of knowing if she is 100% German Shepherds it is up to potential adopters to decide what breed she is.

When the family first contacted me about the dogs stating they was bringing them back, this was the first I had heard of any problems. They said LUCAS was the problem in that he had killed a neighbours chicken, then another time killed a goat, was messing in the house, digging, barking, chewing, chasing animals, didn't know how to use the dog door, and was aggressive with other dogs, adults, children and other animals. However, when Lola and Lucas were returned, both owner surrender forms basically said the same thing.

Whilst at the rescue and also at the shelter, both dogs were great with other dogs, they was friendly and happy to be among humans, both male and female alike. They used the dog door all the time to go out into their run to play, hang out or do their business and would come back into their pen to hang out, eat or sleep. Not once did the ever have an accident or make a mess in their kennels. Even when bored in the kennels they didn't once chew on anything other than the bones or toys provided, they did bark, but when told to stop, would do so and barking is very common  in kennels. It sounded like the dogs became very unruly in their new home, as German Shepherds will, if they do not feel that they have an alpha role model or people to respect. The question on what did the family do when the dog was being aggressive - the response was to bring them in the house. 

It is very clear to me, that although the family were apparently experienced GSD owners, they didn't have the time, experience, knowledge or interest in working with these beautiful dogs. 

LOLA is a lot less hyper than LUCAS, she is very loving and affectionate and her whole body wags when I go into the kennels. She takes treats politely, will sit when asked and is very well mannered. She walks ok on a leash and travels well in a car. We never comment on how dogs are around cats and livestock since we do not have them at the rescue and we believe that animals can respond differently to each other, so it is up to the family if they are prepared to work with them. 

If a fenced in yard cannot be provided, then it is absolutely expected that the family has control of their dogs all of the time, be that strict training on recall or on a leash, but we do not expect dogs to be allowed to run free, or get out, several times especially when there is livestock in the neighbourhood as this is just asking for problems and GSDs are renowned for having prey drive.

It has been decided to adopt these two beauties individually to give them both a chance at a wonderful family that can work with them and give them what they need and not be overwhelmed with two dogs. It is just not fair on them keep going from home to home as they get settled, they get comfortable and they trust and feel secure. It is emotionally damaging all the back and forth.

If what the family claims is actually true, then I believe the dogs had no structure, no consequence to a bad behaviour, no guidelines, no training to establish rules and nothing to keep their minds occupied and not enough exercise to tire them out. So, we are going to be looking for an active family that is able to provide everything that this beautiful girl needs so that she doesn't have to suffer the emotional turmoil of abandonment again.

​We do not recommend dog parks for several weeks, if not months, it is so very important for families and dogs to form a strong bond and get to know each other before exposing them to the potential dangers of dog parks. Although all GaDaH dogs are very well socialized with other dogs, lots of other dogs have not had the benefit of this socialization and do not always know how to play and act with other dogs. You also do not know the control the other families have over their dogs and you should always have a good recall for your adopted dog before going to dog parks.

If you feel that you have the heart and home to give these precious souls a wonderful life, please go to our website, under the APPLICATION tab, complete, then submit the APPLICATION. Our process takes around 2-4 days, and ensuring your references are aware that we will be calling, could speed up the process. Once you have been approved, we discuss any questions in regards to the dog you are wanting to adopt, then you complete and submit the contract, make payment and then we can work out the pick up / transport arrangements.

Please do NOT submit an application if you are not looking to take home a new best friend within the next few weeks.

http://www.giveadogahome-sanantonio.org

LOLAis located at the rescue in Sebec, Maine.  We post in various states along the east coast and Canada where we have had lots of successful adoptions to enable more exposure for these beautiful saved souls. Families will need to be prepared to travel to the rescue to meet and take home their new best friend. Sebec is located just outside the towns of Dover-Foxcroft and Milo (approx 8 miles) and approx 45 miles from Bangor. There are also lots of hotels, motels, pet friendly accommodations  and wonderful camp-sites for the more adventurous families and what a great way to get to know your new best friend. If there are options to arrange transport, we will work with you to make it happen.