REQUIREMENTS
The following requirements were established based on 10+ years of adopting shepherds. They protect the shepherds by avoiding returns, bite incidents, escapes, etc.
1-SINGLE-DWELLING HOMES, NO LANDLORDS
Why? One of the top reasons dogs are surrendered is due to landlord issues, HOA issues, etc.
2-FENCED YARDS, NO UNDERGROUND FENCING
Why? After repeated negative experiences with electronic fencing, the rescue has been forced to require a physical fence. NO EXCEPTIONS.
3-RESIDE WITHIN 100 MILES OF INDIANAPOLIS, INDIANA
Why? The rescue needs to be within reasonable driving distance in the chance it needs to retrieve an adopted shepherd.
4-BREED EXPERIENCE
Why? This breed is not for every family. Families are now required to have previously owned the GSD breed. Experienced shepherd owners are capable of navigating behavioral concerns more easily than those who have only conducted online research.The rescue requires adopters to have knowledge of the breed so that the likelihood of return is minimal.
Top 5 reasons GSDs are surrendered:
1) Bite incident
2) Too protective of home/yard. Cannot safely have friends or family visit.
3) Dog aggression with another dog
4) Too much energy and attention needed
5) Landlord complaints