From Shelter Abandonment to Hope: The Story of Doogie The Senior GSP
Doogie
The email arrived with a poignant plea, echoing the hearts of dog lovers everywhere: "...hate to see this happen to these guys." The universal and heart-wrenching sentiment resonates deeply as the email went on to notify California GSP Rescue about Doogie, a graying, nine-year-old German Shorthaired Pointer who found himself at an overcrowded county animal shelter. What appeared at first as a tale of a lost wanderer picked up as a stray took a disheartening twist – Doogie's presence was not the result of fate but a deliberate surrender by Doogie's owner of nine years. The question lingers like a mystery: What could compel someone to abandon their loyal nine-year-old GSP companion to the embrace of an overcrowded shelter?
Animal shelters everywhere are grappling with a crisis of overcrowding. The once bustling stream of potential adopters has slowed while a relentless tide of animals, like Doogie, pours through the doors. The fewer shelter visitors seek younger, more readily adoptable dogs, leaving the hopeful eyes of senior companions in their shadow. While occasionally, some visitors might entertain the idea of giving an older canine companion a home; the pressing space crunch leaves little room for the rare moments when seniors are adopted. Time for the sweet powder-faced seniors now wears thin. Amid this harsh reality, Doogie stood with odds stacked against him – his prospects of finding a new home overshadowed by the looming specter of euthanasia.
Fortunately, California GSP Rescue received notification about Doogie with enough time to make a difference. Getting to and from the remote county shelter would require a good portion of the day and, hopefully, would avoid any traffic delays. Early one morning, Volunteer Greg set out to rescue Doogie from his inevitable fate that awaited him sitting in his concrete kennel in the facility where several other dogs awaited the same.
Luckily, a glimmer of hope emerged when California GSP Rescue received the email alerting them about Doogie, allowing them a window to effect change. Early one following morning, Volunteer Greg embarked on a mission – spanning a substantial portion of the day and aiming to steer clear of potential traffic snags, an effort to save a senior GSP was set in motion. Driving to a shelter where a life confined to a cold, concrete kennel and several other canine companions shared the same uncertain fate. A chorus of yearning barks within those walls echoed as one senior dog left, making much-needed space for another dog arriving.
Unraveling the mystery of why Doogie's owner left him at the animal shelter is puzzling. After all, he seems like a healthy GSP with a friendly personality and a lot of charm. Dr. Kang gave him a clean bill of health after a check-up, finding no issues of concern. He gets along famously with dogs of all ages, fitting right in. Just like most GSPs, Doogie thrives on human interaction and craves attention. Despite his active side, he's also content with lounging around, happily getting a pet or two after some playtime – talk about an easygoing companion! While the exact reasons behind Doogie's abandonment will most likely remain a mystery, one thing is sure: Doogie is ready to bring boundless joy to a lucky someone willing to make his remaining years the best years of his life.
Shortly, Doogie will be ready to find his forever home through adoption. Taking the first step by submitting an application sets the wheels in motion to offer him the affectionate haven he deserves. If adopting isn't an option for you, you can still make a meaningful impact on Doogie's journey by sharing his story or video far and wide. The exponential force of spreading the word holds the key to unlocking his perfect match. Embrace the chance to contribute to something greater – extend a helping hand to Doogie and amplify his chances of happiness. Together, we can be the driving force of change for Doogie's life. For those seeking a deeper involvement, we invite you to consider becoming a Rescue Hero and championing Doogie's cause.
