Save These GSPs: Betty & Beau Need Homes (But So Do Many Others!)
Imagine walking into a shelter overflowing with young, energetic puppies. Amidst the whirlwind of tumbling paws and puppy yelps, hopeful eyes stand out. Betty and Beau, majestic German Shorthaired Pointers with coats that should be bathed in the warm sunlight as they play in a yard, wait patiently for anyone to notice them. In shelters overflowing with young pups, Betty and Beau, at four years old, are no longer the desirable youngsters but two of the older dogs in the crowded shelter. Will they be overlooked for their younger neighbors?
Betty and Beau, at four years old, were considered 'old' compared to the other dogs up for adoption. They had spent over a week on a stray hold at the shelter and then were made available for adoption. It was surprising that no one had come forward to claim them, but equally astonishing was the lack of interest in the ten—and twelve-week-old pups, who had been there for over two and three weeks. Some of these young ones were even red-listed, meaning they were at risk of being euthanized. Despite their age, Betty and Beau were little treasures hidden among the much younger puppies.
Thankfully, Betty and Beau's story didn't end in tragedy. The Shelter Rescue Coordinator, a beacon of hope, had stepped in a few days earlier when it became clear that no one was interested in claiming or adopting the 'old' pair of GSPs. Despite their age, Betty and Beau had found a lifeline, thanks to the Rescue Coordinator's intervention. She knew that California GSP Rescue would find them forever homes.
As they exited the shelter, a new chapter of joy and companionship began for Betty and Beau. While they had been too old for the adopters visiting the shelter, they would be the perfect age for someone looking to adopt a rescued GSP. Four is such a lovely age for a German Shorthaired Pointer, as they tend to mellow and don't always need as much exercise as they have required for the first four years. They are still great companions for long walks, hikes, and strolls on the beach.
Betty is a sweetheart – affectionate, playful, and still has plenty of GSP zoomies left in her. Beau, on the other hand, is a goofball with a zest for life! He may not have mastered leash walking yet, but his enthusiasm is contagious. Beau runs full speed as if he weren't tethered until his legs and paws fly up in the air. Finding the airbrakes, he quickly regains his footing until he sees something else that captures his attention, and the routine begins again. He'll learn. He's an intelligent dog. They both are.
Seeing so many dogs left behind in shelters overflowing with young pups saddens us. While we'll remain focused on rescuing GSPs in need, we'll continue highlighting other adoptable dogs at the shelter. If you want to help support our efforts, please consider becoming a Rescue Hero. If you are interested in adopting, please submit an application to begin the process. If you cannot adopt, please share the information and videos we post about the GSPs and other dogs. With your help, we all can make a difference.