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.

Kara is an adorable and sweet, but shy 4 month-old girl. Kara and siblings had a pretty rough start to life prior to rescue. These poor pups were part of a larger litter that was dumped at a kill shelter. These babies were very unsocialized and they were terrified at the shelter. At the time, that we rescued Kara and siblings (Ellen, Boomer, and Cally), they were 3 months old, sick with Parvo, and they spent a month fighting this terrible disease and recovering (unfortunately, a male puppy in the group did not make it). These poor pups were so scared that they initially, did not allow handling. Despite their young age, it was apparent that they had not had too many, if any, positive human interactions before being rescued. They are now all fully recovered, happy, learning to love and be loved, and growing like weeds! And they are ready to find forever homes where they can continue to grow and blossom!

She is still timid with unknown things and sometimes startles easily. She is a smart girl and has been learning lots of new things. She enjoys being held and cuddled. Since she is a shy girl, she will need a dog buddy in her adoptive home. A calm environment will be best for Kara. She will need adopters that are patient and supportive. 

While adorable, high-energy puppies require lots of patience, positive reinforcement and redirection to channel their energy in appropriate ways. Like all German Shepherd puppies, Kara will need training, consistency, boundaries, and lots of activity and socialization, in order to become a well-balanced, well-behaved dog.

Kara's adoption fee is $395, 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.