Opal Is Adopted!
Finding adopters who are well-prepared to care for young, adoptable GSP’s can be quite a challenge, as it's essential to understand the unique needs of this breed. It brings us great joy to share the story of Eugene and his family, who welcomed Tamsen (formerly known as Opal) into their lives earlier this year. As you'll see from the insightful update provided by Eugene, they have embraced the commitment it takes to keep a young GSP active and content. Tamsen's journey, filled with energy and affection, is a testament to the dedication and enthusiasm of her adoptive family. :
”First, it takes a special person to own and keep a GSP happy. Make no mistake; you MUST spend quality time with your pup. Tamsen (formally Opal) is about six months old and one of the most athletic and lovable dogs one will ever have. My general routine with her (although I change up every few days) goes like this: I get up about 4:30 every day; have a cup of coffee, then put on my running shoes and leash up Tamsen who is always ready to go! We run about a mile and a half, go home, practice “on your spot, stay and go do business.” I have been very fortunate with potty training and had only about five mishaps before she caught on (and I more observant). Then we eat breakfast. After I do a few things that I need to be done for the next hour (I sometimes keep her in a kennel during this time), we load up in my car and go to an enclosed park. I’m very fortunate to live in an area where there is a lot of parks that are anywhere from 10 to 40 minutes away.
I had her on leash at first but when I felt confident after practicing “here!” She most always comes to me quickly; sometimes not as quick. I hike and she runs which translates into I do five miles and she does 10! She has never been gone more than 5-7 minutes and runs 30 miles an hour to return to me when she decides to come back to my calls. After playing around and drinking plenty of water we usually head out to get a cup of coffee and Tamsen makes friends with anyone who walks past the coffee shop. She is very popular. On the way home she usually sleeps a little and upon arrival, I feed her again. She weighed about 25 pounds when I got her, now she is 35 pounds and growing! She eats three times a day; one cup per session.
I’m retired so I can give her all the attention she needs. The afternoons are spent sleeping a little and playing a little, but I usually end the day with a 30 minute rapid session of throwing a ball and having her bring it to me repeatedly. She caught on to this game quickly and gives me the ball without hesitation (most of the time) on the command “here!” This really wears her out running full blast. Eventually I will use two balls which will keep her moving with no rest at all, but for now one ball works. My yard is about 30’ by 100’ which is really a minimum for space, but adequate.
Finally, I feed her one last time around 5, and she starts to conk out around 6:30 or 7. She usually sleeps on one of her “spots” but follows me to bed instantly when I call it a night.
PS: Some days if I am remiss about meeting her needs, Tamsen is just a crazy GSP doing hot laps, chewing up anything she finds interesting and ignoring me. But she is just a pup and I suspect she will become more compliant with training and attention”.
Receiving updates from adopters like Eugene is a heartwarming testament to the compassion and generosity of those who open their hearts and homes to provide a loving environment for a deserving dog in need. Eugene's commitment to Tamsen (formerly Opal) has made a world of difference in her life, and we're eternally thankful for his dedication.
If you, or someone you know, are curious about German Shorthaired Pointers and what it takes to be their ideal companion, we encourage you to explore our website to learn more about this remarkable breed. And if you've already fallen in love with the GSP’s, and have a special place in your home and heart for one in need of a forever home, we warmly invite you to consider submitting an adoption application today. Your decision could transform the life of a furry friend in search of a loving forever family.
