FREDDIE MERCURY Adopted January 2019 ~ Lost to us March 1, 2025
Freddie's Mom wrote, "Dear Nancy,
With the heaviest heart, I wanted to let you know that our beautiful Freddie passed away on March 1st. It happened so suddenly -- he only skipped one dinner, and by the time we reached the emergency vet, it was too late. His spleen had ruptured. I was devastated, but today I found the strength to write to you and let you know. The overwhelming grief I feel is a testament to how deeply he was -- and always will be -- loved and missed. Freddie's story is featured in a collective book, which you can read here: Freddie's Story, and here is the tribute to his passing: Freddie's Tribute.
Thank you for choosing us to be his forever family. I will be eternally grateful to you.
With love,
Nicoleta T --
| XIA & AURORA Lost to us September and November 2024, respectively
 Rescued from two different California shelters, both were lost within a brief time after coming in to our rescue to causes still unknown.
We never had the chance to find their forever families, but we loved them enough for a lifetime, or at least we tried.
WICKET (Formerly "Ice") Adopted November 2017 ~ Lost to us September 2024
Wicket's mom, Kate, wrote, "I'm sorry to let you know that we made the painful decision to let Wicket go today. The vet believes he had degenerative myelopathy. His back legs were no longer supporting him despite his determination to run and play. He was happy every day, right up until his last. My bubba boy was amazing and so so very loved. We only wish we'd had more time. The house is already too quiet and feels empty without Wicket here.
Thank you for saving him so we could have these past 7 years. He meant the world to us, and that is all because you brought him to us. Thank you again, Kate, Lucien, Yoda, Tally & Morrigan"
KEESHA (formerly "Mindy") Adopted ~ Lost to us Septmber 2024
Keesha's dad wrote, "Hello Nancy, this is Ken Lawrence. Anne and I adopted Keesha (Mindy) and Hank (Pauly) from you. We are so saddened to tell you Keesha passed a couple of days ago from stomach cancer. It came on quickly and as we were heading out to Phoenix for me to have a back surgery. She died the same day at the vet, before we even arrived in Phoenix. We are so sad, we both just loved her so much!
Then the strangest thing happened at the airbnb we're staying. She appeared to us as a reflection in the BBQ grill 2 days after she passed! (See the Pic) How crazy is that! Although it's so soon after she left us, we think she is telling us to give another dog a wonderful home.
It seems you have very few pups available. Lulu and Ten seem to be nice candidates, and there is one that is labeled foster to adopt. I gather that nice pup is not available?
Anyway, check out Keesha, in the grill 2 days after she passed! Rather erie, but she was such a beautiful, wonderful pup. She will be sorely missed. Friends that we shared this picture with thought we put a Pic of her in the grill; nope! Isn't that crazy?"
LISA Adopted February 2020 ~ Lost to us October 23, 2024
Lisa's adoptive mom wrote, "We are taking Lisa in this afternoon. Time to let her go. What a beautiful noble spirit she has. We were blessed to have her for 5 years. Thank you for the wonderful work you do."
| YUMA (formerly "Snow White") Adopted June 2010 ~ Lost to us August 5, 2024
BIX (Formerly "Anjo Lobo") Fostered then Adopted November 1, 2018 ~ Lost to us July 13, 2024
Anjo Lobo was rescued from a California kill shelter in 2018, and fostered/adopted by Bill and Susan. They renamed him Bix (after Bix Beiderbeck, 1920s jazz cornetist) and also an old Beatnik term meaning “a really cool guy” or “ultimately cool.” Bill told us that, "He doesn't mind my trumpet playing at all."
When Bix passed, his dad wrote, "We lost our buddy Bix (previously Anjou/Lobo) on July 13th ... He left us quickly. ...At least we had a chance to be with him as he passed. We miss him. I called him the 'enigma' because there were facets of his personality that we couldn't explain. He was terrified by thunder and fireworks, but we found our way through it. On the other hand, he never met a stranger, and was especially fond of kids."
Shortly after Bix's passing, his dad wrote an email to a friend, detailing a very strange and localized storm that had hit, "We did get an unusual storm last night but, as I said, I don't see any real damage in the neighborhood. ... Then, at about 8 pm, there were thunderclaps and gusty winds followed by rain. It lasted until about 8:30 What's interesting is that we seemed to have been given our own private storm, centered on our patio. ...I went out to the patio and discovered that everything on the east end had blown to the west, and everything on the west end had blown to the east just as the storm began. It completely cleared off the top of the cabinet under the kitchen window and moved the eastern patio furniture to the center area. When the rain let up for a few minutes, I went out front to check on the flag. The mounting hardware was on the ground, but no sign of the flag. I found it inside the RV gate. Ripping that off the mounts and sending the flag over the wall would have required wind from the north. So, strong winds from at least three directions over a few minutes time -- almost sounds like a tornado. ... But, in between, our own little storm. I'd like to think it was a final message from Bix. 'I've reached my destination, and I'm safe and well along with your other pooches. And I'm no longer afraid of wind, rain and thunder!'"
SYMERON Rescued April 2021 ~ Adopted July 2021 ~ Lost to us July 15, 2024
Symeron's dad wrote, "We lost Symeron on July 15th due to Hemangiosarcoma. It was diagnosed on the 8th when we noticed his abdomen was somewhat distended. We kept him home and as comfortable as we could. He passed away 7 days later in our bedroom where he often spent his nights.
Symeron's passing has been hard on me. We only had 3 years together. He didn't make it to his 5th birthday. Just seems really unfair.
Ann and I are talking about what we want to do. Opal is definitely less active without him. She is 10 1/2 now. Also, we closed our tasting room and are planning to sell the vineyard in the next year or so. A lot for us to consider. But as you know, we are dog people.
...Thanks for trusting Sym with us. He was amazing, huge, gentle, attentive, and protective. Everything you want in a Shepherd. I miss him deeply."
GRACIE LOU (Formerly "Thelma") Rescued January 2023 ~ Adopted September 2023 ~ Lost to us July 2024
All losses are hard, but some hit you like a punch in the gut. Thelma & Louise came in to a California kill shelter together and were rescued in January of 2023. Louise quickly found her forever family but, for some reason which we never fully understood, Thelma remained with us, searching. Once she found her forever family, we knew ... she was waiting for them!
 At the shelter
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|  At the beach
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|  Adoption Day
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|  A very merry Christmas!
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Gracie Lou's heartbroken mom wrote, "I have very sad news about Gracie Lou/Thelma. My sweet girl, at some point in her short life, contracted a rare and difficult to diagnose fungal disease called disseminated aspergillosis. It may have been dormant in her body for quite some time and then just suddenly exploded. We detected a mass in May near her lymph nodes when she suddenly started to limp for no reason, which did not respond to antibiotics. The vet was able to biopsy and sent off samples, and at that time it was negative for cancer and nothing grew out of the samples. She also stopped limping after a few weeks of rest. Since the lump persisted however I had made an appointment for today (July 30) to see an oncologist to follow up. Unfortunately over the weekend of July 20th she stopped eating, and after her evening walk on Sunday she was suddenly losing coordination. We rushed her to emergency that evening, and dissatisfied with their initial exam, took her to a different emergency vet that my regular vet suggested. She spent the day of July 22nd at the emergency, getting radiographs, ultrasounds, blood work, etc. They were awesome, but by the end of the day warned me that the disease is extremely lethal and that she probably would not survive the week. We went home with Gracie Lou and strong antiviral drugs, anti nausea drugs, appetite stimulating drugs, pain meds, and a glimmer of hope. She tried to rally, but by Thursday she was completely incapacitated and had lost her appetite. I continued with the drugs through the weekend however, using a syringe to feed her baby food (she drank water on her own) and carrying her down to the grass so she could go potty. She lost about 10 lbs over a very short time, and her muscles seemed to waste away. It was shocking considering we were just out walking 6-7 miles a day, she spun circles all day and ate like a horse. There isn't much info on this disease online, and I visited and asked on several pet vet forums online and german shepherd forums looking for anyone else who had dealt with this disease, but this form of aspergillosis really is very rare. Most vets in northern California have never actually diagnosed it or seen it, and Gracie didn't have a lot of the usual symptoms, she looked and acted healthy until she wasn't.
This Monday after consulting with the vet who treated her at the emergency/specialty clinic and an internist I understood that even the most heroic things we could try would be horribly difficult on her kidneys and liver, would require her to be at a hospital instead of with her family and that the internist thought it would not work and that she would probably never walk or even live through the treatment. Dan and I decided that was something we did not want to put her through – she was happy running and playing and being part of a big pack of humans and dogs and even a few cats, and the last week we could see how sad she was to be missing out on all the interaction. Sunday evening we drove her around in the electric cart so she could go visit all the places we walked every day. Monday afternoon we had a vet come to the house, my friend Sioux came over (she came with me to pick her up last Sept). Dexter sat close by and we all held Gracie Lou and talked to her while she crossed the rainbow bridge.
Today it is terribly quiet in our house, because Gracie Lou was a really big energy moving around. Our lab, Dexter, loved her so much, they were inseparable, so today he is just sleeping quietly and walked quietly on our morning walk. He was the last one to say good by to her before they put her in the vehicle, so I hope he understands a little. And in a week or so I will get her ashes back to put on my altar along with my other beloved pets. I was hoping to have many years of adventures with Gracie, but I know over the 10 months she was with us she got constant love and attention, and the chance to run and play to her hearts delight. ...She was my huge whirlwind of sweetness, and has left a huge hole in my heart."
ELLA Fostered then Adopted December 2009 ~ Lost to us June 2024
Ella was found as a 2-3 month old puppy in the desert. A good samaritan found her and got her the medical care she needed, but already having four dogs in the household, there was no room for another. She reached out to us for help and, of course, we said yes. One of our foster families offered to take her, and the rest is history. Over the 15 years of her life, Ella has helped so many foster dogs learn what it's like to live with a real family. We are beyond grateful for her and the Coveys.
 Ella with her expanded family as of July 2021
Ella's forever mom, Barb, wrote, "We all decided to put Ella down - she was suffering lot of cysts and getting around issues. Her knee and this heat was just making her miserable.
She was 15 now and what a fantastic dog that helped so many foster companions comfort to new families.
We all thank you every day for giving us the opportunity to be her forever family!"
BLINK (Formerly "Lobo") Adopted September 2015 ~ Lost to us June 2024
Lobo's mom wrote, "We unexpectedly lost Blink to aggressive and inoperable liver cancer a few days ago. It was very fast but he passed peacefully at home in our arms, with his favorite toys and a belly full of pizza.
We miss him terribly, but are so very grateful for the time we had and to you for bringing him into our lives."
| BECCA Adopted January 2019 ~ Lost to us May 17, 2024
Becca's folks wrote, "I have some very sad news. Becca had a stroke a couple of years ago at Christmas. We have been nursing her and taking care of her since. But she has IVDD in 3 discs and is dragging her rear paws and unable to feel when she has to go to the bathroom. As much as we have done as the Drs have instructed and faithfully been giving her the meds and restricting her diet, it has only been getting worse. ...We are both heartbroken and I am crying as I am texting, but we don't want her to suffer anymore. We have scheduled an appointment to have her put down tomorrow at eleven, unless some miracle happens (which believe me we are praying for)."
DUSTY (formerly "Joaquin") Adopted September 2017 ~ Lost to us April 2024
Dusty's dad wrote, "Thought we'd get you up to date on Dusty. His bladder & cancer removal on Jan. 2nd was successful but ... the cancer had spread to his liver for which our vet had warned us might have happened. We were told he'd probably live for another 3 to 6 months. The first 2 months & 1 week were great, with not one bad day. Then things started changing and his tummy began distending and we knew the cancer was beginning to become worse. He'd have a bad day and then 4 or 5 great days... etc etc. then he was fine for a week, and was still running around outside, going for long walks. Hobbling down his food, treats & Frosty Paws doggy ice cream, and then the last week arrived and...Sadly, we had to have him put to sleep here at our house today and we're absolutely devastated. ...We knew it was time ... and couldn't let him suffer like this. ...At least we could hug and kiss from 5 a.m. in and during the sedative and final injection. He was always so joyful and happy and seemed so young... and then this cancer ruined it all. Dusty was the sweetest, most handsome, smartest, funniest, most loving & best dog I've/we've ever had, and it's already lonely here because he ruled this family in such a loving way. (And, yes! He was definitely food driven). When we settle down a bit we'll most likely want another WGS to join our family. I can't imagine not having a dog in the house, but it's a bit too soon since he's only been gone for about 7 hours and Buck and I continue to cry because we have so many beautiful memories of Dusty. Interestingly, not a day comes to mind of his misbehaving, and that's the truth!
CHANCE Pulled from VVAPL Humane Society June 2022 ~ Lost to us February 28, 2024
Chance came to us when his owners moved away and simply left him beyind in the yard. The buyers of the house were caring for them while they were going over and fixing things up to move in; however, when they brought their own dogs over, Chance didn't like them. So, guess, what? Chance found himself at the VVAPL Humane Society. The shelter guessed him to be between 7 and 8 years old.
We immediately reached out to our Globe fosters, Dave & Jackie, to see if they would be willing to take this senior boy on and they said yes. Chance was quickly pulled from the shelter and transported to Globe thanks to Chuck & Jon from Husky Camp and Michael & Bob, the other half of our Globe team. For almost 2 years, Dave and Jackie took care of Chance, assisted by Michael and Bob. They loved him and cared for him and saw him through until his last days when they had to make the difficult decision to let him go. We are ever so grateful that this senior gentleman, after being abandoned by his family, didn't have to end his life in a shelter as an unwanted dog. Chance was taken care of as he so richly deserved and passed away knowing he was loved.
SAMWISE GAMGEE (Formerly "Doogal") Fostered then Adopted March 2019 ~ Lost to us February 2024
Sammy's mom, Katelyn wrote, "I wish I was emailing you about anything else, but as you brought Sammy into my life I want to tell you that he's passed. I woke up this morning and when he got up he was wobbly on his feet and labored breathing; gums were pale and he wasn't interested in any food or water. He was totally fine the night before, so the change was startling. I called his vet right away and got him in two hours. He had a mass on his spleen that ruptured and filled his abdomen with blood. It was so sudden, but his odds with a surgery and blood transfusion were not good at all. He was put to sleep with me holding him, and both my parents nearby who loved him very much.
I am so so sorry. People are telling me that I gave him the best years of his life and maybe later I can accept that but I feel like I'm in a nightmare. He was my velcro dog, my heart dog; golden fluff, chicken nugget, wolf, golden boy, floof, best boy, and all the other nicknames in between. Thank you for trusting me with such a wonderful dog. He brought me so much joy and companionship and love, it's ridiculous."
MIKAYLA Adopted June 2014 ~ Lost to us June 2024
Mikayla was rescued from a California kill shelter in and very quickly moved into a foster to adopt home with her forever parents and fur-sister in Marana.
| ROCKY Adopted November 2014 ~ Lost to us January 2024
Rocky's dad wrote, "It is with a sad empty heart that I write you you today. Yesterday Sunday January 28th Rocky went over the rainbow bridge. It was a painless procedure that went smoothly. He had DM and had lost most of the use of his hind legs. Rocky was a good boy for us for a long time but his illness was affecting his mobility and causing him pain.
Thank you for bringing him into our life. We look forward to getting another dog from the rescue in the near future."
DUKE ELLINGTON Adopted September 16, 2010 ~ Lost to us December 2023
Duke was the third youngster (after "Miles" and "Davis") rescued from a Texas shelter and brought to the Phoenix area courtesy of Animal Rescue Flights, where he was quickly adopted by his forever mom, Jen.
Jen, wrote, "I just wanted to let you know that Duke crossed the rainbow bridge on Tuesday. I can't believe he made it as long as he did and I miss him so much. I don't think I'm ready for another pooch just yet but when I'm in the market I will let you know."
JACK DANIELS (aka "Jake") Pulled from Los Angeles, East Valley Shelter October 2012 ~ Adopted by our Founder December 27, 2014 ~ Lost to us November 21, 2023
Jake first came to our attention when he was surrendered to animal control officers in October 2012 with allegations of a bite. After examining Jake, who had multiple lacerations on his legs and body, one officer in particular did not believe the bite story and went to the home to investigate further. She first encounted the father, who repeated the allegations of a bite by Jake on his son. When asked about the lacerations on Jake's legs and chest, the father said he beat Jake to punish him for the alleged bite, and Jake went through a plate glass window in order to escape the beating. The officer requested and was granted permission to speak to the son. The officer asked if he had been bitten. When the boy replied "yes," the officer asked him to show her the wound. After pulling up one arm then the other, no bite marks were seen. The officer then asked what was happening when the dog bit him, to which the boy replied in a very annoyed tone, "I was trying to cut off his tail ... and it wouldn't come off!!" We, therefore, gave Jake the benefit of the doubt and agreed to take him into our rescue. It should be noted that for his entire life, Jake was never able to be around young boys. He never forgave or forgot the cruelty that was shown to him.
 Transport to Arizona by John - we wound up replacing John's leather leash after Jake chewed through it on the trip from California
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 Jake started Boot Camp almost immediately with volunteer Traci
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 He attended the Grand Opening of Doggie District (on Traci's lap) on November 17, 2012
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 Jake was Herding Instinct Tested March 17, 2013
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 Adoption Day! Our founder could resist Jake's charms no longer so she made a pact with Southwest's Founder, Steff -- she adopts Jake and Steff adopts Brady. It was the best deal they ever struck.
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"Jake was my faithful protector for 11 years. I was never afraid to be alone in the house when Jake was on patrol. I knew he would lay down his life for me without hesitation. He was my husband's ball playing crazy dog until he could no longer run and he could never use the weedwacker in Jake's presence. Taking care of the lawn is going to be a lot quieter now. He will be missed ..."
ELLIE (Formerly "Angel") Adopted October 2015 ~ Lost to us November 2023
Ellie's mom, Sarah, wrote, "I thought it would be years before I would be writing again. Last weekend we made the devastating decision to put Ellie to sleep. I can not express how incredibly shattered my heart is to have to let go of Ellie, so soon after Loki.
At the End of September, Ellie and I were on a beafutiful fall walk together. She sat down and was unable to get back up. It was so odd. No yelp of pain, nothing to explain why she couldn't get up or walk. We rushed her to the vet and she underwent an emergency MRI for an obvious spinal cord issue. The Vet diagnosed her with an Acute noncompressive nucleus pulpose extrusion of the L4-scaral segments(ANNPE). Initially she had no feeling or movement in her back right left and her back left left was weak and numb. She had flaccid paralysis of her bowels and bladder.
Over the subsequent weeks, we stayed with her around the clock to make sure she was dry, clean and comfortable as we hoped to see some improvement. At her follow up visits with the vet, she had very little recovery and any additional recovery was thought to be unlikely and would be faced with a future of continous bladder leakage. After lengthy dicussions with her vet, despite my desire to keep her going, we all felt that this was the most loving course of action.
I had sincerly hoped that I had years to spend with Ellie and we could spend that time spoiling her and going on adventures. We savored every minute with her since Loki's passing by going on walks, camping, and giving her all love that she deserved. She was best friends with my Fiance and his dog (prior to his dog's passing). She truly was the sweetest and gave the best hugs."
FYNN (Formerly "Quinn") Adopted February 2012 ~ Lost to us October 9, 2023
Fynn's dad, Keith, wrote, "It is with much sorrow that we made the very hard decision to put Fynn to sleep this evening. She had steadily lost the ability to rise off the floor without assistance and walk. Today she wouldn't eat or drink and it seemed it was time. I will miss her very much."
| IGGY (Formerly "River") Adopted November 2015 ~ Lost to us November 2023
Deb wrote, "I've put off saying anything for a bit, because it's been so hard to say- but we lost Iggy a little while ago. It's probably been a month at this point. Earlier this summer he had some issues and had to go in for emergency exploratory surgery and that's when we found out he had tumors all over his spleen. It was starting to go to his liver, and after the biopsy doc told us he had on average about 4 months left.
I'm so sorry for not telling you sooner. It was really hard to do. We miss him so. ...
I'm sorry for dumping this bad news on you. I kept meaning to tell you but it was difficult.
Love,
Deb"
CLINT Rescued October 2023 ~ Lost to us to bloat November 2023
This one was heartbreaking. We had rescued Clint at the 11th hour from a kill shelter and were preparing to have him neutered, updated on shots, groomed and readied for introductions in search of his forever home. Sadly, he didn't make it. Clint bloated on the night of November 2, 2023, and was rushed to the emergency vet. Sadly, we had to make the decision to let him go. We're sorry, sweet boy. We just didn't find you in time.
TROOPER & JUNIOR Adopted May 14, 2014 ~ Lost to us May 2023 (Trooper) / September 2023 (Junior)
Trooper and Junior were littermate brothers who lived in the same family for approximately five years, when they were surrendered due to a move. We were given a three week deadline to get the boys out of their current home in California or they would wind up in a kill shelter. Some loving family, right? Our thanks go out to our Globe team, Michael & Bob, who graciously volunteered to make the trip to California and pick up the boys.
 Pit stop along the way
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|  Arrival in Avondale
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The boys first went into foster with Tom and his family -- they did very well!
As time went on, we worried that the boys would have to be split up, but Dave and Laura weren't about to let that happen and adopted both boys for the holidays!
SYDNEY (Formerly "Wolfy") Adopted August 2011 ~ Lost to us August 2023
Sydney's mom, Jen, wrote, "I just wanted you to know that I had to put her down today. She got some sort of gastric disease and went down fast. My heart is broken."
| DESTINY Adopted November 2014 ~ Lost to us August 2023
Destiny's mom wrote, "It has been a few years. I adopted Desi back in 2015. I wanted to let you know that she lived a wonderful life with our family. Yesterday, we laid her to rest and she is with her forever family in heaven.
She was such an important part of our family. I wanted to thank you for bringing her to us."
ZULU Adopted November 24, 2019 ~ Lost to us August 8, 2023
Zulu's mom, Gail, was already on the lookout for a younger male to add to her family -- she had had to put down her 13 year old female GSD and a 10-1/2 year old male GSD (both due to age & health related issues). She was looking to fill that void (and her heart) by helping another furkid have a forever home -- when Zulu popped up on our radar. He had been surrendered to a shelter after his owner passed away. We had nowhere to put him, so we took a chance and send his picture to Gail to see if she would consider adopting him.
Gail was curious and committed to taking him on the spot, immediately changing his name from "LouLou" to Zulu, and we set about getting him from California to Phoenix ASAP.
 Arrival in Phoenix with Michael & Bob (Zulu at left)
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|  ADOPTED!
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 Zulu and his pack
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 Cooling off
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 Sharing a cookie with his best friend, Wolf Child
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 Relaxing in the hay
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After less than a year with his new family, Zulu had to undergo hip surgery. In early 2023, Zulu became paralyzed due to a massive bacterial (staff) infection along his spine. Surgery was done and Zulu started to show improvement; however, in July a CT scan showed an incurable strain of fungal infection that was causing his spine to deteriorate and was likely spreading throughout his whole body.
Gail wrote, "Nancy, I've been trying to write this since yesterday morning but each time I get physically sick thinking about it. I had to let Zulu go to the Rainbow Bridge yesterday morning. There was nothing more that could be done and he was in constant discomfort & pain. His best friend (Wolf Child) went ahead on 6/21, so at least I know, in what's left of my heart, that they're together again. He was only just over 4-1/2 yrs old. He weighed 112 lbs in Feb.; 79 lbs. last week. I'd like the world to know that such a wonderful, sweet and loving soul was lost way too soon. He was only 4 years & 7 months old and he put up such a courageous health battle for most of his short life. It's been 6 1/2 weeks now and I still cry about losing him every single day (and as I write this).
Lacey and Quinn are quiet and feeling the emptiness here now as badly as I am. Sadness and a heavy, broken heart."
Gail Shell, Lacey, Quinn & Pumpkin
MOON Adopted September 2016 ~ Lost to us July 2023
On Monday we had to say good-bye to our most beloved Moonie. I'm heartbroken as I write to you and miss my happy, loving girl. She was taken far too young. It seems she developed a tumor that encapsulated her entire chest cavity. I couldn't understand how this could happen so fast. She was almost due for her annual checkup, but I decided to take her in early because she had developed a cough and her belly looked bloated. I was hoping it was a foxtail or something else. Even our Vet was shocked at what he saw in the x-rays. He told us these things are hard to detect early. It grew quickly and made it difficult for her to breathe. I felt so helpless, but I knew we couldn't let her suffer either. We all miss her and it doesn't even seem real.
As Jerry and I talked, we both felt it was important to not only let you know about Moon-Boon, but to thank you and your team for allowing us to be her family. She was an amazing girl; my Moonie-boonie-looney-tooney. She, Sheriff and Yogi have brought so many wonderful memories into our lives. It's difficult to believe that our original dynamic duo is gone. After losing my big boy, Sheriff, you knew exactly who to pair us and Moon with; Yogi (aka Brando). He and Moonie were just as wonderful together. In fact, Moon became quite protective of her Yogi around other dogs, but she grew to be more accepting in time. On walks it was always a competition on who would lead. The two were inseparable. We've been on many RV road trips with us and wherever we go people always admire our well-behaved beauties. Countless kids have also given them both cuddles. Moonie has always been a bit more reserved though. But she loved attention and any critter that moved. She loved chasing birds, lizards, bunnies, you name it. Through the years, Yogi still nibbled on Moonie, like a puppy, but she never minded. I always worried she would develop a bald spot, but she never did.
Please extend our love and gratitude for you and what you do to your team. Without you taking a chance on us outsiders from Kingman, we wouldn't have had these wonderful additions to our family and lives. I'm hoping that when the time is right, you can find us a new member to play with Yogi and us. I know you will know the right fit for all of us. At the moment, Yogi is always at my side. I know he grieves along with us.
I thought I'd add a few photos and a video to share what joy you bring into the lives of both the dogs and families you serve. We love our WGSD's. What you do is truly special and it takes caring and loving people to be there for these beautiful babies. Thank you again,
Kathey, Jerry and Yogi "
STEVE (Formerly "A.J.") Rescued & Adopted July 2019 ~ Lost to us June 2023
AJ's family wrote, "I'm not sure if you remember me. We live in Anthem, my husband and son and I came to your home and met your sweet A.J. (who became Steve) and adopted him a few years ago and it was very successful. However, we recently lost Steve to bone cancer. We were devastated, and our son is only now ready to consider another dog."
| LOKI (Formerly "Samuel") Adopted October 2012 ~ Lost to us June 2023
Loki's mom wrote, "With a heavy heart, I wanted to share with you that 10 days ago Loki (aka Loki Bears, previously Samuel) crossed the rainbow bridge. I adopted Loki 10+ years ago and we have been glued to the hip ever since. He had me wrapped around his paw with his enormous, goofy, mischievous personality.
Loki was an amazing dog and friend. We had many adventures over the years with hiking and camping. We spent most of our evenings going for walks and goofing off in the backyard. He loved food, hunting lizards/bugs, and playing fetch. I wish we had more time together, but 100 more years still wouldn't have been enough time."
DIZNEY (Formerly "Snow White") Rescued February 2014 ~ Adopted May 14, 2014 ~ Lost to us May 19, 2023
Dizny's heartbroken parents wrote, "Dear Nancy- the reason for this note is a sad one – Dizney has been suffering from some degenerative health issues and the symptoms are getting worse - she has progressively lost strength in her hind legs … she can now no longer stand for more than 5-10 seconds at a time. We have tried all versions of cures from the traditional to holistic (CBD)…with little benefit. In consultation with the Vet, we have decided that it would be most humane if we put her down - we will be taking her in for this procedure later today (Friday, 19th) at 1 pm - ET … it is very, very sad - we are heartbroken … as we think of our time with Dizney, I am not sure who rescued who!
Diz has been with us for the last 8 years as we moved residences from Phoenix to Missouri most recently to the DC area (Northern Virginia) last July … she has charmed our friends and neighbors everywhere we lived.
Please keep Diz in your prayers -- thank you for bringing this Angel into our lives, she enriched it in so many ways."
KODA Adopted April 2012 ~ Lost to us May 15, 2023
Koda's parents wrote, "We worked with Nancy to adopt Koda back in April 2012 and I'm incredibly sad to say we had to put him down yesterday. He had troubles with his back legs for about a year now and we've been giving him Cosequin to make him more comfortable, but he was no longer able to get up, so we called out our Mobile Vet to perform an in-home euthanasia. This was a much better experience for him than having to carry him into a vet clinic. We miss him terribly. He caught Valley Fever several years ago, but with meds over an extended time he was able to kick it and was cured! We were so happy about this! We loved how he used to watch TV with us, hoping to catch a glimpse of an animal; he loved Dr. Pol's Vet show.
I attached some pictures. The first picture is Koda in the forefront. The second picture is Koda hanging out with the boys (my dad and my husband). ... We're so grateful that we found Koda through you. He has been such a wonderful part of our family!
LILA Rescued June 2018 ~ Adopted by our Founder April 2023 ~ Lost to us May 9, 2023
After four months, I am finally able to sit down and write this memorial for our girl. Lila was brought to our attention by our good friend, supporter and adopter Michael (Sawyer and Amy's dad in Globe). Lila had been dumped in a Vegas shelter by her family -- a family that had obviously been using Lila as a puppy factory! We immediately reached out to our good friends Becky & Phil in Las Vegas to see if they could help -- of course they could! They knew as well as we did that Lila was not going to make it out of that shelter alive. Becky & Phil not only arranged for Lila's release, but got her to a vet for boarding (and paid the bill) until we could come for her!
Two of our staff members (Nancy & Bert) headed to Vegas to pick up Lila. She was so overweight she couldn't even get out of Becky and Phil's van without a ramp.
 Lila and Becky (Bert in background)
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|  Unloading with Phil & Becky's help
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 She introduced herself to Stella on the ride home
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|  A potty break in Wikieup was in order
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Once we got Lila back to Phoenix, we had her weighed at our vet's office -- almost 100 pounds! Lila was immediately put on a green bean diet and took off an astonishing 20 pounds in no time at all. She was then spayed and readied for adoption ... but there were no applicants for this older gal. After spending 5 years in our rescue, Nancy decided to adopt her and make it official. Lila was home! Sadly, within a very short time, Lila suffered what we believe to be a hermangiosarcoma and was gone within hours. There are no words ... She was one of a kind and will never be forgotten, at least not by the folks at White GSD Rescue who loved and took care of her during the last five years of her life.
BROOKLYN Rescued October 2010 ~ Adopted November 2010 ~ Lost to us March 25, 2023
Brooklyn came into a city shelter in San Bernardino, CA, when she was just about a year old. We pulled her from the shelter and she took up residence with Sara in Tucson to await her spay surgery. Upon meeting her, Sara was smitten, and we have to say the feeling was entirely mutual.
 In very short order, she became the ruler of Sara's pack
Brooklyn's mom, Sara, wrote, "I lost my Pretty Precious Princess, Brooky Lynn, on Saturday. She has been fighting what I believe to have been cancer for several months. As you know, I kept this very quiet, and to myself until just a week or two ago. I just couldn't face the fact, or admit it, that I was losing her. I have been doing my best to keep her comfortable and happy with things like eating all people food...she would sniff the air every day when I got home and look at me like, "Mom, what did you bring me today?" She fought with all she had in her. Friday night she started to go downhill, and could not really stand up to get herself water, so though I was not ready, I knew the end was near. I laid down on her bed with her, and had a good talk. When I laid down in bed Saturday afternoon to take a nap, she kind of moaned a little, and I told her it was OK, I was there with her and going to take a nap with her. When I woke up a couple hours later, she had passed in her sleep. She went quietly and quickly without pain. I am happy for that, and our little talk. I miss her greatly, but she is in Heaven with Qerc, who she mourned greatly in January, and all of her other siblings. Eleven and a half years was not long enough. I will always love her."
QERC
Not a rescue dog, Qerc's mom, Sara (our Tucson friend, volunteer and multi-dog adopter), fell in love with him when he was just a baby. He joined her family at 9 weeks of age.
 Qerc's "Gotcha Day"
|  6 months old
|  Just a few months later
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From Qerc's mom, "Nancy,
Ten years ago today, you and I were sitting at breakfast, and you told me we had puppies. This morning ten years to the day later, I have to write to tell you that my loving guardian, best friend of the last ten years, passed in his sleep last night. I will forever miss his love, kisses, and constant companionship. I love him so much, he's gone too soon."
Sara
HURRICANE JUDY (aka "Judie Pudie") Rescued September 26, 2008 ~ Adopted May 19, 2010 ~ Lost to us December 17, 2021
Judy and Star were found by county officials during a drug raid. The police found them in a small pen in the back yard laying in mud, completely emaciated, with mange. Their only source of "water" was a pool of drained motor oil which they were both forced to lie in and drink from. Both dogs were barely alive when officials found them, covered in mange and motor oil (apparently the owner had been dipping them in the oil to ward off the bugs). Not far from their enclosure were 5 newly dug graves where the puppies from Judy's litter had been buried--Star was the only survivor. It took MONTHS of dedication and hard work for the Denham Springs (Louisiana) shelter personnel to get Judy and Star to the point where they could even survive transport, and then Hurricane Ike struck. When they asked for our help, we could not say no.
 When the transport arrived in Avondale, at 3:45am, WGSDR volunteer were there to meet it
 Covered in motor oil and scared to death, volunteer foster mom Dorothy knew just what Judy needed ... a hug
|  Judy and her puppy, Starr, were loaded up and taken the rest of the way to Phoenix
 This is how Judy spent her first weeks with Dorothy ~ hiding in the bushes
|  But Dorothy finally won her over and Judy braved the doggie door to join Rascal for dinner
 Judy & Dorothy just 5 months later at Boot Camp
|  Judy was also reunited with Star at Boot Camp
 Judy continues to improve and blossom under Dorothy's care
|  Judy celebrates her birthday with Dorothy in 2021
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We don't know how old Judy was when she came to us in September of 2008, but even guessing she was barely 2 years old -- she spent just over 13 years with her doting mom, Dorothy, who loved her at first sight and never gave up on her -- that would have made Judy at least 15 years old when she passed ... quite an accomplishment for a neglected and starved dog and a testament to the love and determination of her mom. We will miss you, Judie Pudie. From a neglected, frightened shell of a dog, you turned into a beautiful, loving, social butterfly. Thank you, Dorothy, for your love and dedication to this sweet soul.
ROCCO (Formerly "Jeff" and "Walker") Adopted December 10, 2019 ~ Lost to us May 1, 2021
Rocco came into our rescue in September 2019, after being pulled from a California kill shelter. He was transported to Arizona by our dear friends, Michael and Bob from Globe and took up temporary residence with foster parents Dave & Jackie in Globe where his name was changed from Jeff to "Walker" because Dave and Jackie said he walked around an awful lot. His coat and skin were in horrible condition, but after a good grooming, his looks and attitude definitely improved.
In December, Rocco was spotted on our website by Claudia & Ron (prior adopters of ours), and they offered Rocco a winter home in Sun Lakes, with a summer home in Washington.
 Rocco and his "team" (Michael, Jackie, Dave and Bob)
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 Before Grooming ...
|  ... and after
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 Never met a stuffie he didn't like
|  Christmas 2020
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 I'm not spoiled one bit!
|  At home in Washington
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On May 2, 2021, Rocco's heartbroken mom wrote, "Sad news. We lost Rocco yesterday. Another loss to hemangiosarcoma. Another one gone way too soon. He was the best dog we could have imagined and the year and a half with him went by in a blink of the eye.
My friend said he was happy to be with us. I think so, too. He trusted us completely from the beginning. Everyone loved him.
Please let his 'team' know, and again thank you to you and his team who made it possible for us to have time with this boy.."
JINX Pulled from Shelter October 2014 ~ Adopted March 20, 2016 ~ Lost to us April 5, 2021
This one was a heartbreaker for all of us. Jinx was pulled from a California shelter in October of 2014, and for whatever reason, she was passed up by adopters, time and time again. It was a complete mystery to us why Jinx was never chosen, but we didn't look a gift horse in the mouth and put her to work.
After her spay surgery, Jinx started Boot Camp with the new year and volunteer Di. She was a wonderful "demo dog" for Boot Camp newbies and trained with Di and Traci, and helped train new volunteer Wendy. She even went herding with us and did beautifully. She was everything a German shepherd should be, and so much more. Finally, in March of 2016, her forever family found her and she was adopted. We had to say goodbye to one of our very favorite girls, but we knew she was going to a place where she would be loved as much as we loved her.
 Transport to Arizona
|  Herding Day!
|  At Doggie District having fun
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 Jinx was chosen to participate (with rescue furkid Rupert) in a 2016 Valentine's Day "wedding" performed by "ELVIS"
|  Helping new volunteer Wendy
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 With Di in the middle of the flooding circle at Boot Camp
|  Adoption Day
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Once adopted, Jinx settled in beautifully and was delighted to find that her new home included a pool, which she was more than welcome to use ... and use it she did.
In November of 2019, Jinx was diagnosed with Aspergillosis, which is caused by a fungus. She received treatment and we were hoping for the best. She rallied and managed to fend off the disease until the spring of 2021 when it invaded her brain and the difficult decision was made to let her go with her dignity intact.
Jinx' mom Debbie wrote, "She packed more living into the years we had her than any other being I've ever known. She brought light and laughter into our home, and was my absolute favorite maniac. She even *slept* with relish -- flat on her back with arms and legs splayed out -- that girl had NO modesty and was the queen of her world! =)
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JACK Pulled from Shelter February 2017 ~ Fostered then Adopted in August 2017 ~ Lost to us March 19, 2021
 Transport to Arizona
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 Adoption Day
|  Jack and his mom
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Jack's adoptive mom, Lauren, wrote, "It is with a heavy heart that I have to tell you Jack is with Matilda. I mentioned a few weeks back he had been diagnosed with DM -- Degenerative Mylopathy. Over last last few months we had been working with another vet for alternative treatment as there is no cure or treatment for this terrible disease. I can't say enough kind words for Dr. Thiel at Integrative Vet Med. She is so knowledgeable and caring; her staff is wonderful and took good care of him. Over the last couple of weeks his strength had declined significantly in his hind end. He was dragging his leg so bad I had to place his foot for him. His knuckles were a mess. Monday night he actually growled at me for helping him. My sweet Jack never did that to anyone. So after his appt on Tuesday with with Dr Thiel we discussed with her his status which wasn't good. I woke to him crying in the early morning so Jack and I had a long chat with me on the floor and his head in my lap. He let me know it was time to be with Matilda. He was tired of struggling with his legs. We made the call to Dr. Hutchinson. On Friday at 5 pm with me and Jeff and his vet family (Dr Hutchinson, Alvin and Garrett), we said our goodbyes and he went peacefully. My heart is heavy once again but I had to put my selfishness aside for my silly goofy big dog aka Jack. He will be missed.
Thank you for him and know in the 4 short years we had him he had a good life."
Miyu (Formerly "Snowball") Pulled from Shelter December 2010 ~ Fostered then Adopted in 2012 ~ Lost to us November 15, 2020
Miyu was pulled from a California shelter and brought to Phoenix just before Christmas 2010, on a transport that finally made its way to Tonopah at 3am.

Our tireless team was there to meet her, but by the next morning she was gone -- up and over the fence at her temporary foster home when someone inadvertently let her out into the yard by herself. After a frantic search, she was found at the westside shelter, having been picked up by animal control within hours of her escape. Phew! Now knowing that she was a "jumper," our efforts to find Miyu a forever home were challenging to say the least.
But Deb and Jake didn't let a little thing like fence jumping deter them. They took on Miyu as a foster and never looked back.
 Christmas 2012
 Getting training tips from Bert ...
|  ... and from Leah
|  Christmas 2013
|  Hiking with mom, Deb
|  Miyu excelled in Agility!
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 We asked Deb for her favorite pics of Miyu, and she sent us these two
Miyu's mom wrote, "We said goodbye to Miyu today. After her initial perk up she started to decline slowly. Couldn't stay standing, couldn't walk, started being unable to hold her bladder. She hadn't wagged her tail at me since last Saturday. So I made the appointment for today and we gave her ribeye last night and a Mcdonald's breakfast this am.
We will miss her so much. She was so special and was such a good girl."
SAWYER Pulled from Shelter December 2, 2013 ~ Adopted January 11, 2015 ~ Lost to us November 12, 2020
Sawyer's is a story worth reading. It's about a dog, with what would seem to be an insurmountable disability, overcoming that disability to lead a wonderful, happy life and the people who cared enough about him to help him on his way and eventually offer him a forever home of his own. Thank you, Michael (and to Bob and Biscuit), for giving Sawyer his forever ...
Click to read about Sawyer
 Michael with Sawyer (left) and fursister Amy at Santa Paws 2019
Sawyer's dad, Michael, shared some of his favorite pictures...
You will be missed, sweet boy. It was our privilege to be a part of your village ...
Jackson Rescued March 2016 ~ Lost to us October 24, 2020
Jackson was spotted at the westside shelter by our good friend, Shelly. He was brought into rescue and almost immediately caught the attention of our long time foster mom, Dorothy.
 To say he wouldn't hurt a fly was an understatement
|  Dorothy was always spoiling her boy
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Jackson had not had an easy life, but Dorothy loved him a lifetime's worth in the four short years he was with her, and he passed in her arms, knowing that he was wanted and loved. Thank you, Dorothy, for giving him the life we had hoped for for him.
Taz Adopted February 19, 2011 ~ Lost to us September 14, 2020
Taz and his sister, Pacheco, were surrendered to the Arizona Humane Society in July of 2010. Before we could get to them HALO (Helping Animals Live On) pulled them and put them up for adoption. HALO soon realized that their shelter was not the place for two young German shepherds, and they reached out to us for help, which we were happy to provide. Taz was adopted after his fosters completed a training course at Dog House Training Academy,
 Adoption Day
 Family portrait April 2013
|  September 2015
|  February 2017
|  February 2018
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Although Taz presented many challenges for his adoptive family, they never gave up on him.
Taz's heartbroken mom wrote, "I just wanted to give you a update on Taz. We had to put him to rest today. It was a tough day and he was our sweet boy that we were blessed to rescue 10-11 years ago from your place! He gave us some challenging times here and there but there were more happy times than bad times with him. Thank you!"
ROSE Rescued June 27, 2020 ~ Lost to us July 1, 2020
Click to read about Rose
| CAPRICE May 21, 2008 ~ Rescued February 2013 ~ Adopted July 2013 ~ Lost to us August 2020
Click to read about Caprice's Rescue
KEL-EL (renamed "Kyle") Adopted April 15, 2011 ~ Lost to us August 2020
Kyle was surrendered by his owner in March 2011 at approximately 3 years of age. Due to his sweet, gentle nature, it didn't take Kyle long to find his forever family.
 Adoption Day
We didn't even have to ask for pictures to add to Kyle's memorial, even though we had quite a few of this handsome boy.
 Kyle and 7 year old Toby
|  Kyle and Buttercup
|  Danny 10, Toby 7 and Kyle at 13
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 Kyle and his dad, Tom
|  Tommy (age 16) and Kyle
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 Kyle and his family (except for mom who was taking the picture
Kyle's adoptive mom, Jennifer, wrote, "Our family has suffered a great loss. Our loving protective wonderful doggie Kyle has passed. He suffered from a neurological disease like muscular sclerosis. We loved him, miss him and hope you can find us another wonderful dog. ... My other best friend is sorely missed. If you can help us, please let me know."
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HAZEL Rescued September 2019 ~ Adopted October 22, 2019 ~ Lost to us August 5, 2020
This one really hurts. Hazel was rescued from a California kill shelter and transported to Phoenix, only to become one of our favorite furkids. She was adopted into what we had hoped would be her forever home ... and it was. Thru a momentary lapse of judgment on the part of her adopter, Hazel jumped out of the back of a vehicle (she was off leash and untethered in the car and the rear hatch was opened) after arriving at daycare, ran into traffic and was struck and killed by a passing vehicle. We are devastated...
VIENNA Rescued 2012 ~ Adopted March 2017 ~ Lost to us June 3, 2020
Vienna was approximately 2 years old when she was dumped in horrible condition by an uncaring owner at a high kill shelter in California in the summer of 2012. After 3 months in boarding at Crossroads in California, she was transported to Arizona by our good friends/adopters/volunteers Jim and Terri to begin the search for her forever home ... and that search took many twists and turns. She was adopted THREE times before she finally found forever.
 Arrival in Phoenix with Jim and Terri
|  She wowed the crowds at "Woofstock" in Prescott in June 2016
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 Vienna and her friends at Doggie District
|  In Boot Camp and at Home Depot with volunteer Wendy
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 In March 2017, Julie came into Vienna's world and offered her the home she had been waiting for.
On June 3, 2020, we received the sad news that Vienna had passed away in her sleep.
CHARLIE (aka "Colonel") Adopted February 2010 ~ Lost to us March 31, 2020
Charlie was rescued from a kill shelter in California in late 2009. He was first fostered, then adopted by his forever dad.
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