Get out the tissues... (then scroll down for the happy ending!!!)

Meet Sam, a senior German Shepherd who has spent the last 9 years of his life being a loyal and loving companion.  He loved his family and never ran away, even when he was left outside in rainstorms and severe heat.  Even when flies ate away part of his ears because of the filthy yard he was forced to call home, he stuck with his family.

Sam stayed put because he is a German Shepherd Dog, and loyalty to his "pack" was more important than his own comfort, or anything else.  And how was this devoted boy repaid for his unconditional love and protection after 9 years?  He was dumped like garbage at a local animal shelter.  When the family was asked why they were turning him into the shelter, they said it was because "he is too old to chase a ball any more".  They requested that the shelter put Sam to sleep.  When they were told there would be a small fee for euthanasia, they refused to pay it, so this sweet senior boy was crammed into a concrete run with 3 other dogs to fend for himself.  As Sam was being put in the concrete run, his family was walking through the shelter looking for a new puppy.

Although the decision this family made to abandon this wonderful boy in such a cruel manner is beyond heartbreaking, there is a rainbow to this story...  The husband of one of our volunteers took one look at Sam and said "He WILL NOT die unwanted in a shelter".  Our volunteer called and placed a rescue hold on Sam, and picked him up 2 days later. 

As you can see by his pictures, Sam is sad.  Sam is very, very sad, dejected, and must be so very confused...  He hangs his head down because his previous owner beat him until he felt worthless.  BUT, with a little love, compassion, and some belly rubs, Sam will be a new dog before you know it.

Although, Sam is 9 years old, he has many years to live and he wants to spend it being a cherished member of a family.  Can you be the one to teach Sam that snoozing in front of the fireplace is much nicer than being locked outside in the rain?

Sam is a big boy at 85 pounds.  He is neutered, fully vaccinated, microchipped, and is good with other dogs.  It appears that he gets along with cats as well.  So, do you have room in front of your fireplace, and in your heart for this special boy?

February 25, 2003:

Sam's new 'Daddy' sent us this wonderful photo to show how healthy and happy Sam is now!  Can you believe the difference?