Central Illinois German Shepherd Dog Rescue
I want to...
Adopt a Dog
Help these Dogs
Rehome a Dog
Transfer/post a Shelter Dog
Information
About Us
What We Do
Frequently Asked Questions
Our Vets
Policies
Alumni
Other Services
Match-a-Pet Program
Community Dogs Page
Articles of Interest
Email Newsletter
Helpful Products
Education
In Honor of...
In Memory of...
Links
Navigation
Site Map
Home Page

See also:
The Community Dogs page has a listing of dogs that are adoptable through other individuals, shelters, and rescues.
Community Dogs
Check this out...
Try the ASPCA's "Is your Home Poison Safe?" Interactive Quiz on the ASPCA web site.
Did you know...
The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) answers the question Why Spay or Neuter? (PDF—15K). This low-cost surgery keeps your animal healthier and helps fight pet overpopulation.
In Memory of...
Sam
Sam: He was a star student in our eyes.
In Memory of...
Gypsy
Gypsy: She was such a sweetheart and one of a kind.

 

Be informed: HB4212 is an IL bill you should be aware of.

Alumni of 2003

The following are dogs that were adopted from the Central Illinois German Shepherd Dog Rescue in 2003.

Reno — Adopted on December 28, 2003

RenoWhile in Rescue  Reno was a black/tan, male, neutered, 90 pound, German Shepherd Dog. He was 2 years old and an extremely sweet boy that was very cuddly (a gentle giant). He apparently had experienced some very sad things. The fact that a huge male German Shepherd would cower at a raised voice is a sure sign of a yellow-bellied human interaction. Some spineless idiot must have thought he was something at some point, to cause Reno to be so submissive to a raised voice or a loud noise. Reno was just a perfect dog and didn't deserve or need a heavy hand. We hope that the person who hurt Reno in the past gets what he deserves someday.

A special thank you goes out to [an error occurred while processing this directive]
Would you like to be a sponsor?

Romeo — Adopted on December 21, 2003

While in Rescue Romeo was a black/tan, neutered, 6 month old German Shepherd Dog, puppy. He was handsome, sweet, and very puppy. Only families that were ready for a large and rambunctious addition to their family were asked to apply.

View the Romeo Photo Gallery for photos and updates!

A special thank you goes out to Romeo's sponsors: Terry and Janie O'Donnell
Would you like to be a sponsor?

Riese and Vinnie — Reclaimed November, 2003
While in Rescue Riese and Vinnie were senior citizens at 8 and 9 years old. They were fully vaccinated and neutered. They had lived together most of their lives and therefore had to be placed together. Vinnie was having a bit harder time with his change in location, but his brother helped him out a lot. Riese (getting his neck scratched in the photo) was a gorgeous purebred male, and Vinnie was an adorable Shepherd mix. Their daddy became very ill and had to be moved to a nursing home. Their owner's daughter would have loved to have been able to take them, but lived far away and in an apartment dwelling where two large dogs were not welcome by the landlord. It was a heartbreaking decision for her to leave the dogs in someone else's care. Fortunately, Riese and Vinnie's owner recovered and reclaimed them. Both dogs were so happy to see him!
Junior — Adopted on November 1, 2003

JuniorWhile in Rescue Junior was a 10-12 month old, neutered, solid black, male, German Shepherd Dog. He was very active and sweet, loved to play, and got along with other dogs, annoyed cats a bit with his energy, but was not dangerous around them. He had been around horses, but liked to chase, so was never off lead around the horses. Junior was willing to please. His training was going well, but he needed an active home that wanted a dog they could spend time and play with. Junior was a great dog and wouldl be an outstanding dog with some direction and more training.

View the Junior Photo Gallery for photos and updates!

A special thank you goes out to Junior's sponsor: JBWC25, who loves German Shepherds as much as we do!
Would you like to be a sponsor?

Spring (renamed Dottie) — Adopted on October 9, 2003

Pup 4While in Rescue Spring was born 7/29/03. Her and 3 others from her litter came into rescue together. Two black and tan two fawn with black masks and four very distinct personalities! The largest fawn was the pack leader. She was very intelligent and curious. She would give her future owners the greatest rewards in obedience and training. She was always looking for something to do and to lead her sisters around on adventures. The smaller fawn was a absolute doll. She was very affectionate and searched for love and approval. She stuck close to her sisters for reassurance and support. The black and tan with the tan mask was very affectionate and would come up to you to get attention. She was a cuddler and a smoocher. She wanted to be loved and let you know it. She had a very nicely balanced personality. The black and tan with the darker mask was very sweet and lovable, but a bit more secure in herself and would check things out herself. She was a good dog and would be great for someone wanting a loyal loving pet, that could entertain themselves if when their owner is busy, rather than being under foot, glued to your side for the next 16 years.

View the Dottie Photo Gallery for photos and updates!

Summer (renamed Sammie) — Adopted on October 11, 2003
Pup 3 While in Rescue Summer was born July 29, 2003. Her and 3 others from her litter came into rescue together.

View the Sammie Photo Gallery for photos and updates!

Fall — Adopted on October 12, 2003

While in Rescue Fall was born July 29, 2003. Her and 3 others from her litter came into rescue together.

Winter (renamed Wrigley) — Adopted on October 26, 2003

While in Rescue Winter was born July 29, 2003. Her and 3 others from her litter came into rescue together.

View the Wrigley Photo Gallery for photos and updates!

Jazz (renamed Giselle) — Adopted on October 5, 2003

JazzWhile in Rescue Jazz was a black/tan spayed female German Shepherd Dog that weighed about 60 pounds. She was 1-2 years old and was a very human-oriented dog (the ultimate velcro accessory to any outfit!). She loved hugs and kisses and was more interested in you than anything else. She got along well with the other dogs and is okay with cats. She had been around our child and had done well. She was a more dominant female and asserted herself when playing.

View the Giselle Photo Gallery for photos and updates!

Paige (renamed Sadie), Piper, Phoebe — Adopted on September 28, 2003

While in Rescue Phoebe had the blonde face, the other two were interchangeable (Phoebe and Piper shown left). They were 12-14 weeks old and were going to be huge! They were very sweet and cuddly and would be wonderful dogs. They had a very rough life. Their previous owner's intact dogs bred together (unplanned) and resulted in a litter of nine pups. The owner sold three, and was going to shoot the other six. He wound up taking them to his local pound. They had excellent care from the people at the shelter, but during a brief visit to the veterinarian, contracted Parvo from another litter of puppies. They were in foster care when they became ill, but due to the nature of Parvo, three puppies didn't make it. These three sisters were the only ones left, and after all of this movement and trauma, through cooperation of multiple shelters, rescues, and foster homes, these girls have been saved. We want to thank everyone who was involved.

View the Sadie Photo Gallery for photos and updates! (formerlly Paige)

Mischief— Adopted on September 20, 2003
While in Rescue Mischief was a black/tan, neutered male, 8-9 week old, German Shepherd Dog puppy. He was living up to his name! This little guy was very active. He needed a lot of love, obedience, and time from his new owners for training. He was sweet, but had a strong personality that would require a skilled hand throughout his life. This little sweetheart was left to fend for himself, abandoned by a lake. He was very scared when we picked him up, and thankfully came around quite well.

View the Mischief Photo Gallery for photos and updates!

Alli— Adopted on September 15, 2003
While in Rescue Alli was a black/red, 3-4 year old, spayed, female, German Shepherd Dog that was very friendly with puppies, small dogs, male and female dogs, and cats. She had a stoic personality and was a very cuddly people-dog, but still liked to play with other dogs. She had adopted Habibi (the puppy) as her friend and little pup to raise.

View the Alli Photo Gallery for photos and updates!

When Alli was spayed, there was evidence that she had several litters in her life and her maternal instinct was apparent around the other small dogs and young animals. Alli did have three lumps removed (that were discovered during her spay surgery) and they were all benign. These mammary lumps are not unusual in unspayed and bred females. This is another reason pet owners should always have their pets spayed and neutered.

Summer— Adopted on September 13, 2003
While in Rescue Summer was a black/tan, female, spayed, 55 pound. 8-10 months old German Shepherd Dog. She was a very sweet female puppy that had a lot of energy, but was very cuddly and loving. She got along with all of the dogs and cats, had been very gentle around the baby, and was a generally well adjusted puppy with no signs of abuse. She was a little cautious in new environments and people, but her caution usually melt quickly into a waggly tail!
Sheba— Adopted on August 23, 2003
While in Rescue Sheba was a 10-11 month old, black/silver, spayed, female, plush coat, petite German Shepherd, weighing only about 53 pounds. She was very gentle and knew her basic commands. She could play off lead without worry. She got along with other dogs and would chase cats, but without any real prey drive. She had been around horses without incident. She was extremely gentle and calm around small children.
Fancy— Adopted on August 22, 2003

While in Rescue  Fancy (renamed Mattie by her new family) was a black/tan, spayed, female, German Shepherd Dog that was about 8 months old. She was an active young pup, who loved people and got along with other animals. She was a top dog which means she could share a home with certain dogs, but would definitely need to meet her future companion to make sure their personalities would be compatible. Fancy was very sweet, loved to play, and had been around horses without incident.

Due to poor breeding (backyard breeding), Mattie was found to have severe hip dysphasia. Although her new family was willing to provide surgery for Mattie, the reality is that surgery and recovery for dysphasia of this degree would not be a humane decision. Mattie's family made the humane decision in January of 2004 to euthanize. Mattie's new dad was present and held her while her vet respectfully put her to sleep. Although all our dogs are special, Mattie was very special to one of our volunteers, and she has been missed.

Those who do not practice good breeding are backyard breeding. Read our FAQ on What constitutes a good breeder?

Kiah— Adopted on August 21, 2003

KiahWhile in Rescue  Kiah was a 2 year old, spayed, female black/tan German Shepherd Dog that weighed about 65 pounds. She was a sweet dog that knew her basic commands and enjoyed playing with her doggie friends, and did well around babies, children, and horses. She was a little excited when a cat ran by, but she didn't waste her time hunting them when they were just walking around. She was a more independent dog that enjoyed cuddles and playing with her people, but was just as content exploring on her own, or laying in the shade. A beautiful girl, she has done well around babies and children.

View the Kiah Photo Gallery for photos and updates!

Mahina— Adopted on July 29, 2003
MahinaWhile in Rescue Mahina (the moon), a 1 year old, male, neutered White German Shepherd didn't seem to know how to play with toys at first, but he soon found a liking for playing with tennis balls! He also loved his Nylabone! He walked well on a leash, but needed some more experience in this area. In general, he just needed to experience most things — he looked like a country fella in the big city with wide-eyed wonder at everything he saw. He was eager to play with other dogs, even when they barked at him. He didn't usually bark back, but instead didn't understand why they didn't want to play with him! He loved attention and petting, and, most of all — belly rubs!

View the Mahina Photo Gallery for photos and updates!

A special thank you goes out to Mahina's sponsor: George Mucher, in memory of his wife's childhood pet.
Would you like to be a sponsor?

Malea — Adopted on July 18, 2003

While in Rescue Malea was a spayed, female, 1.5-2 year old black/red German Shepherd Dog that was sweet and gentle. She loved to sit and be petted,but would also go lay down when you were doing something. She knew basic commands such as "sit" and "down," and she was very good on a leash which was such a arm saver! She came when called and would stay close when off-lead. She obviously was somebody's dog. She loved to fetch, and if you asked her to go get her ball, she will search until she found it! She seemed to be fine around dogs and cats and didn't have any food or toy aggression. She had also been around a one and a half year old and did wonderfully with him (under a careful eye of course!) Malea was house and crate trained. She had NEVER had an accident and had the house to roam while her foster mom was at work. Really, this dog was a dream!

View the Malea Photo Gallery for photos and updates!

Leiah — Adopted on July 6, 2003
While in Rescue Leiah was a 1.5 year old black/red female that was born on December 24, 2001. She was a joint rescue effort by Faery Tails Corgi Rescue of St. Louis Inc and the Central Illinois German Shepherd Dog Rescue. Leiah was found to be heartworm positive and needed to undergo treatment along with supportive care during this time. She stayed in her foster home for the months during her treatment. Thank you to everyone that sponsored Leiah so that she could receive the treatment she needed.

View the Leiah Photo Gallery for photos and updates!

A special thank you goes out to Leiah's sponsors: Rod & Susan Clement in memory of Niki 7/3/1997 - 7/2/2003, Bruce and Kim Long who spoil their German Shepherd the way every dog should should be spoiled . Peter & Penny Lundquist in memory of Sam, their gentle black Shepherd. Richard Jones, on behalf of Jonesy and IKC champion Natasha vom Dukes. Jeff Timmerman and his German Shepherd, Nikki , The Hehns family, in honor of Buddy, a fellow heartworm survivor. Korrin Malen in memory of her beloved, Shadow. Jan Miller, in memory of Cain. Terri Maxwell.Rebecca Kuk in loving memory of her beloved, Oscar. Mark Biagi and his German Shepherd, Bella. Eric Blum in honor of Freia. Jessie Arian: "To one Leiah in memory of another Leia."
Would you like to be a sponsor?

Bruno — Adopted on June 30, 2003
While in Rescue Bruno was a 4-5 year old, male, black and tan German Shepherd Dog. He was truly a gentle giant that stole all of our hearts the second we met him. We didn't dare believe he was just as wonderful as his first impression appeared, but he proved all that and more. This over 100 pounds of sweetie and is happy indeed to be in his forever home!
Jimmy Buffett— Adopted June 2003
While in Rescue Jimmy was a sweet, male, neutered, 5 year old, large, black and tan, German Shepherd Dog and "ladies man" who LOVED to play with the female dogs. He was an independent guy and would entertain himself for hours — if he had a girlfriend, he was even happier. He warmed up to his people and was a playful spirit. He had completed a round of obedience courses, and loved to ride in any vehicle. He did pull hard when he wanted to run to the car, but was a great dog. Jimmy was very happy when he found himself adopted into a home with a beautiful German Shepherd girlfriend!

View the Jimmy Photo Gallery for photos and updates!

A special thank you goes out to Jimmy's sponsors: Carolyn & Scott Wallace (fellow parrotheads) in memory of Tigger the cat. Rebecca Kuk has provided a triple sponsorship in loving memory of her beloved Oscar the GSD. Don Maxon (in honor of Becky, and in memory of Samantha, his black/tan Shepherd). Also sponsoring Jimmy: Kathleen Braun.
Would you like to be a sponsor?

Habibi— Adopted on June 1, 2003

While in Rescue Habibi (meaning: beloved) was a very active, very out-going, and very bouncy spayed, female 22 week old, little White German Shepherd Dog. She loved people, ignored the cats for the most part, and just had a blast bouncing around. She walked on a leash without pulling (it was more like walking Tigger since she bounced). She would be a perfect agility dog or happy at any other active sport that someone would like to do with their pet. She aimed to please, had a sparkling personality, loved attention and anyone that would give it to her!

View the Habibi Photo Gallery for photos and updates!

Holland— Adopted on June 1, 2003

While in Rescue Holland was a sweet, fun-loving, playful 10 month old, female, spayed, German Shepherd pup that was black with tan boots. She had a squeaky toy that she loved. She didn't squeak it much, but would rather carry it around and show it off! She enjoyed playing with the other dogs and had been super-friendly to all the rescue volunteers. Her tail just couldn't stop wagging!

A special thank you goes out to Holland's sponsor: Susan Caley, in honor of RJ
Would you like to be a sponsor?

Monty— Adopted on April 27, 2003

While in Rescue Monty was a handsome 1.5 year old, neutered, male, black/tan German Shepherd Dog. He had the most brillant eyes! He was always ready to play with his doggie friends, but was laid back and well mannered around his human companions.

View the Monty Photo Gallery for photos and updates!

Arrow (renamed Kaiser) — Adopted on April 19, 2003

While in Rescue Arrow was a cute, 12 week old, neutered male German Shepherd mix. He was very outgoing and was not phased by much. He was pretty compliant and clean, but would be a very active member of his family! He had been good with the cats and dogs, but then again, they were bigger than he was!

View the Kaiser Photo Gallery!

Trinity— Adopted on April 14, 2003
While in Rescue Trinity was a 1 year old,black/tan, spayed, German Shepherd that came to us after her mom passed away. Trinity was a sweet, yet shy girl. However, it took only a few pets and hugs to get her to warm up to you. She also got along well with other dogs.
Buddy — Adopted on April 14, 2003
BuddyWhile in Rescue Buddy was a 2-3 year old, neutered, large, black/tan, German Shepherd mix that completed his adult heartworm treatment while in our care. Click here to read Buddy's story...

View the Buddy Photo Gallery for photos and updates!

A special thank you goes out to Buddy's sponsors: Lori Broach, in honor of her German Shepherd mix, Leia's, 2nd birthday. Sean Slayback.
Would you like to be a sponsor?

Gentle Ben — Adopted
Gentle BenWhile in Rescue Gentle Ben, a male, neutered 1-1.5 year old, black/tan German Shepherd Dog got along with cats and dogs, was crate trained, house trained, and a good dog. He ould not be left out unattended because he was still very puppy and liked shoes and other household goods for chew toys. His favorite dog toys were his Rhino toy and his Nyla-Bone. He would sit and chew these toys for a long time. Gentle Ben had a very rough beginning to his life and had worked hard to trust his caretakers. He was terrified of leashes, but soon tenatively walked around the block, acting like it is the first time he has ever seen the great big world. He did not like car rides very much, but just needed a boost into the car. He was scared once he was in the car, but he hung in there!
Ritz— Adopted on March 23, 2003

AngusWhile in Rescue Ritz was a 1 year old, neutered, male, White German Shepherd Dog that weighed about 80 pounds. He was a sweet puppy that loved to play with other dogs and loved people.

A special thank you goes out to Ritz's sponsor: Gracie Post
Would you like to be a sponsor?

Angus — Adopted on March 5, 2003
While in Rescue Angus was a cuddle-muffin and as sweet as can be. He thought he was a lap dog and wanted nothing more and to be hugged, loved-on and petted at all times, although at times he would settle for just snuggling up next to his human.

 

Duke — Adopted on February 15, 2003

While in Rescue Duke was a very well-behaved, four year old male German Shepherd Dog. He knew all of his commands well, walked well on a leash, and was a huge fluffy teddy bear of a dog with paws the size of dinner plates.

View the Duke Photo Gallery for photos and updates!

RJ — Adopted on January 12, 2003
RJWhile in Rescue RJ was a a very lovable, one year old, little guy (60 pounds) that loved his people and to cuddle with them! He got along well with all dogs, large and small, and all personalities. He was great around cats and horses too! He had a rough beginning to his life and was ready to start over in his forever home with lots of food and love.

View the RJ Photo Gallery for photos and updates!

A special thank you goes out to RJ's sponsors: Susan Caley, in memory of her German/Australian Shepherd, Elvis (aka: woo woo baby). Also sponsoring RJ: Kate & Dan Muravnick
Would you like to be a sponsor?

 

Return to our homepage, the Alumni main page
or view another Alumni page: 2006, 2005, 2004, 2003, 2002, 2001, 2000, 1999, 1998.

line bar

Elizabeth Riddle, our rescue president, outside of her full-time job and continuing educational pursuits, is an animal behaviorist and an obedience instructor, with a Bachelor's degree in Biology from the University of Illinois with a specialty in Ethology (the study of animal behavior). She officially founded this rescue in November of 1997 while attending the University of Illinois. Learn more about this rescue...

 Did you know... You can support this rescue with purchases...

Approximately 8-12 million companion animals enter animal shelters nationwide every year and approximately 5-9 million are euthanized (60% of dogs and 70% of cats). — Annual Shelter Statistics, ASPCA

Click Here - Save a Dog...

Sammy Meal Time Bib Visit our German Shepherd Dog Shop at CafeShops.com

Sammie's Meal Time Bib now available!
how to adopt a dog | help these dogs | other services | transfer/post a shelter dog | rehome a dog | site map | homepage
You can also visit us at
Petfinder.com
Central Illinois German Shepherd Dog Rescue
P.O. Box 17464
Urbana, IL 61803
E-mail:
Web site: https://www.gsdhaven.org
This page was last updated January 29, 2006 . All Contents Copyright © 1998-2006 C.I.G.S.D.R.
For questions or comments about the design of this website e-mail:
If you are unable to view portions of this page, please upgrade your browser.
Jackson
Lil Princess
Fonzie
Rowdy
Glory
Annie
Cubby
Betsy
Remember, we are always getting in new dogs so check back frequently!
See also:
Check out our Community Dogs page for a listing of dogs that are adoptable through other individuals, shelters, and rescues.
Community Dogs