Hugo the GSP: Overlooked Gem Needs Your Help!
When we first see stray GSPs like Hugo in the shelter, one of our first thoughts is that their owner will surely go and claim them. A young, good-looking, active GSP with no apparent issues at the shelter—why wouldn't their owner get them? That's a good question. We aren't likely to ever know the answer.
Despite his youth and charm, Hugo remained unadopted when he became available for public adoption. This was a puzzle, but the answer became clear upon our visit to the shelter a few days later. The shelter was brimming with puppies, and Hugo, a 2-year-old GSP, competed for attention. His unique blend of energy, good looks, and adaptability, which set him apart from the puppies, was unfortunately overshadowed by their cuteness.
Hugo's story is not unique. He is just one of the many dogs and puppies who end up in shelters, either as strays or abandoned. The situation is particularly dire in California, where shelters are often stretched beyond their capacity. Young dogs like Hugo, full of potential and waiting for a second chance, are left to hope for someone to claim or adopt them, facing the risk of being overlooked due to the influx of younger, cuter puppies.
The reports were good when California GSP Rescue rescued Hugo from the animal shelter. Because the shelter was overcapacity, he had kennel mates. The shelter staff reported that he did well with several different dogs, the last being a pit bull. He also did well with the animal control officers who interacted with him. His only issue was his age. It's hard to compete with the cute little puppies only a few months old bouncing around in the nearby kennel.
It didn't take long for California GSP Rescue to see that, like so many other young dogs recently rescued, Hugo's previous owner spent little time working and training him. At his age, exercise and training are vital for a large, active dog, and he most likely lacked both. However, that doesn't make him a bad dog; the good news is that he is responsive and wants to please. Someone didn't realize what they had or how to manage him.
California GSP Rescue is dedicated to finding Hugo the right home that will love him, exercise him, and give him the training he needs. Hugo is waiting for you if you want a bigger pointer and have the time for exercise and training. Please submit an application! If not, someone is, and we need your help finding them. Please take a moment to share this post and video in hopes of finding Hugo's forever home. If you want to do a little more to help Hugo and the other rescued dogs, consider making a donation, or better yet, become a Rescue Hero! With your help, we can do even more to help rescued dogs like Hugo!