Schaeffer is a SUPER PUPPY!!!!

8/22/17  Schaeffer is a 15 month old Black and Tan purebred GSD that came to VGSR as an owner surrender.  Schaeffer was purchased from a local ‘Mall Pet store’ as a puppy, and got returned because he was diagnosed with hip dysplasia at the age of 4 months. The store could NOT ‘re-sell’ him and wanted to put him down because he was of NO use to them. However a friend of the Pet Store owner volunteered to take Schaeffer so they would not euthanize him. He admitted that he just wanted to save Schaeffer’s life, but didn’t have the time for him and didn’t know anything about training and wanted the best for Schaeffer.

Schaeffer is currently living with his foster family who has 2 little humans and a 6 years old bossy female GSD. He also has couple of neighbor’s dogs to play with him every morning after the regular morning walk. Schaeffer is very social, HAPPY, and learning how to become a great family dog. When he first came, he didn’t know any commands, and seemed like nobody taught him. He is VERY smart and eager to please. So after couple days, he mastered ‘SIT’ and ‘NO’. He is very food motivated and has a high ball drive (but easily gets distracted because he’s such a goofy boy). He adores his little humans, especially the girl. Schaeffer is a big puppy that doesn’t realize his size. He sometimes plays rough, but he takes corrections very well. His hips condition doesn’t slow him down, and he’s thriving. He loves to chase his foster GSD sister and wrestling with other dogs. Schaeffer LOVES water!! He dances when the sprinklers’ ON and no one can stop him!!

We took Schaeffer to a Specialist and got his hips checked. The doctor confirmed that Schaeffer has hip dysplasia and arthritis. He examined both hips and  the GOOD NEWS is he doesn’t need surgery RIGHT NOW and hopefully he WON’T need it in LONG TIME given the fact that he is pain free – happy – and acts ‘normal’ without any pain medications. Hip replacement surgery is the last option we want to think about, and it’s unnecessary for Schaeffer at this time. He is still growing, and once he’s fully grown, we may want to consider getting another x-ray to see how his hips’ are then. The doctor (again) mentioned that this future x-ray will not be necessary because the goal is to keep him pain free and be a happy dog. It is important to keep his current weight and keep him active and exercise him.

Schaeffer is a wonder PUP! He is perfect for everyone who wants a lifetime best friend. He deserves a family who will love him unconditionally and spoil him.

If you are already approved and interested in meeting Schaeffer, please contact your caseworker. KIVA.