Chasser Is Adopted!
Chasser and Judith
Introducing Chasser, an extraordinary GSP who has found his forever home with Judith. Being an exceptional dog, Chasser required an equally remarkable adopter, and Judith answered the call. She pledged updates, and we are eagerly anticipating more stories of Chasser's adventures and the happiness he brings to his new home. Enjoy this wonderful first update on Chasser’s new life.
“Last June my elderly, rescue GSP, Jake, died. I was devastated. I didn’t think my heart would ever heal. The void I felt seemed intolerable. I’ve always been an animal person and, for the first time in my long life, there were no pets in my home. It seemed everything I did reminded me of Jake. I would begin to cry when I passed the dog food aisle at the grocery store. After a few weeks of sadness, it occurred to me that there must be other GSP’s somewhere who needed a home—just like Jake had needed so many years earlier. My search began in earnest.
I’m a native Oregonian who recently relocated to Tucson AZ. I quickly discovered that breeds common in Oregon are less common in Arizona. Arizona’s animal shelters are overflowing with Pit Bulls and German Shepherds. I searched the shelters everyday for a GSP but couldn’t find one. I began to look online in neighboring states and came across the California GSP Rescue website. It was just what I needed.
I practically memorized the CA GSP website. It was full of photos of GSP’s they’d rescued. Many were available for adoption. There were also videos showing Greg going to shelters to pick up dogs. I watched them all—over and over. The CA GSP Rescue is a phenomenal organization. It is made up of volunteers who are dedicated to saving and supporting beautiful GSP’s. They also help rescue humans beings, like myself, who are looking for companions that can bring joy to their lives. The CA GSP Rescue drives near and far to save the lives of these precious GSP’s. Thankfully, they arranged the rescue of an incredible dog named Chasser, who was impounded in Bakersfield, at the Kern County dog shelter.
My journey with CA GSP Rescue officially began when I filled out the online application. I appreciated all the questions on the form. It reminded me of the many aspects of responsible dog ownership. Next I spoke on the phone with Andrea, one of the adoption counselors. During the call, I told her I was an older, retired woman who was looking for a smaller sized GSP. I indicated that I didn’t need a purebred. I simply wanted a dog that could be a companion. Andrea said she knew the perfect dog: Chasser. At the time, Chasser was being fostered by Andrea, so she knew him quite well. She sent me two videos of Chasser and I fell in love. I knew I needed to meet him.
It was a long drive from Tucson to Beaumont, but worth every mile. Chasser was waiting for me when I arrived. He was the sweetest, most beautiful, dog ever. The first thing he did when we met was jump up to tell me he wanted me to pet him. Lisa, another GSP volunteer, took Chasser and I for a walk so I could get to know him. We had a lengthy conversation, mostly regarding Chasser’s needs and the home I had to offer.
After our walk we went to the office. There was paperwork we needed to fill out. I was amazed at how organized everything was. Lisa had all the records I’d be needing for Chasser —his vaccination records, microchip information, and lots of other helpful documents. I signed a statement indicating that I would not be using Chasser as a hunting dog (I’ve now learned the wrong party signed the form—it should have been signed by Chasser.). After we completed the necessary forms, I returned to my hotel. I couldn’t sleep. All I could think of was Chasser.
The next morning I met Andrea and Chasser at the facility. I so admire Andrea for her ability to foster and care for a dog in her home, then send him away to a new home. I’ll forever appreciate all she did to provide for and love this wonderful dog when he needed someone most. Andrea said her goodbyes and Chasser began his journey to his new, forever home.
As I was driving to Tucson with Chasser, I tried to imagine what he might be thinking and feeling. He’d been loaded into a strange car with someone he barely knew. He spent several hours in the car, then arrived at a place with prickly plants and smells he’d never smelled before. It must have been very disorienting for him, yet he seemed to adapt quickly. I think rescue dogs have a special ability to deal with new situations. Most have encountered challenges that required strength and resilience other dogs never face. Rescue dogs are the best!
So it’s been a month now since Chasser joined my home. He’s snoozing on the couch, here at my side, as a write about our journey. Andrea told me that Chasser is a “velcro dog”. She was certainly right. And it’s just what I needed. I will always have a special place in my heart for Jake, but there’s little time for sadness. Chasser and I have lots of things to do. Like go to the dog park every day and meet new friends—both humans and dogs. I can’t imagine my life without Chasser. Thank you CA GSP Rescue!”
Choosing to adopt a German Shorthaired Pointer or a GSP mix is a truly meaningful gesture. If you're passionate about supporting our mission to reduce the number of unwanted pets in shelters and help them find forever homes, consider adoption. If adopting isn't possible for you right now, you can still make a difference by making a donation or becoming a Rescue Hero. Your support transforms and saves lives.
