German Shepherd dogs, as well as the other herding breeds that we have in rescue, are highly active, energetic, working breeds. They require considerable vetting, exercise, socialization, training, leadership and mental stimuli in order to be well-adjusted, well-balanced, and well-mannered dogs. Even if you exercise and play with your dog daily in your fenced yard, you MUST still take your dog out on daily walks and outings in order to work on his/her leash skills, manners, and social skills. These breeds make great additions to active families who will pamper them, but who will also work with them, as they are smart dogs who need leadership, structure, plenty of activity and mental stimulation. 

If you are new to German Shepherds (and other herding breeds), please research the breed to make sure this is the dog for you. We ask that you consider the time and financial commitment that your German Shepherd (or other herding breed) dog will require before applying for one. Please review the section on our website (www.heartlandgsrescue.org) "Is a HUGS Dog Right for You?" for additional information.

Madigan (aka Maddie) is a very sweet 7 month old puppy who weighs 37 lbs. We rescued Madigan from an overycrowded, where she was out of time. She arrived in Omaha in mid-September, started feeling ill during transport, and had to be hospitalized on arrival. For months, Madigan fought against the odds as she battled Distemper. Madigan is our very first Distemper survivor and we feel that she is our miracle puppy! Madigan has now been cleared for adoption. She is a very sweet girl who likes attention, loves toys and treats, really enjoys playing with other dogs, and gets along with cats. She is an adorable medium-sized pup, sweet as can be, playful and affectionate. She loves to play with other dogs, and is very respectful of the cat. When Maddie isn’t playing with all the toys, she is cuddling with her foster siblings (cat included!), or happily gnawing on bones or chew toys! Maddie rides great in the car, and is always down for a Puppuccino and some good tunes! Maddie is very food and treat-motivated. She is very smart and eager to please. Maddie is a very loving girl who will bring lots of warmth and joy to a very lucky family.  

Madigan's adoption fee is $325, all of which goes back into offseting our high-cost vetting expenses and rescuing more dogs. Adoption fees include spay/neuter, current on age-appropriate vaccinations, fecal, deworming, flea/tick and heartworm preventative, heartworm tested if old enough (treated if positive), and microchipped. Learn more about the adoption process and requirements, and apply at: http://heartlandgsrescue.rescuegroups.org/info/adoption.