Neptune & Gary: Two GSPs Rescued from a Shelter in Crisis
In our minds, dog shelters often feel like a holding place for stray dogs. They temporarily shelter stray dogs until their owners pick them up. A few are also up for adoption. A recent mission to save Neptune and Gary, two young German Shorthaired Pointers, uncovered a more pressing issue. The shelter, and other shelters throughout the state, are full of adoptable, healthy pets. There's simply not enough space or awareness of them.
The Kern County Shelter Neptune and Gary came from is a testament to tireless dedication. They have remarkably placed over 1,500 dogs this year alone – and that doesn't even count the felines and other creatures. Still, despite their hard work, they remain overcapacity. They take in many new arrivals every day, and are busy doing what they can to network the dogs that go unclaimed. California GSP Rescue gets daily requests for assistance from this shelter and other facilities. They desperately need help as their kennels are overflowing.
Take Gary, a one-year-old GSP with an eager spirit. He is currently a bit under the weather but shows immense promise for affection and activity. Then there's Neptune, a two-year-old GSP mix. He's a blur of energy who, as our video shows, loves playing with other dogs. He's an intelligent dog whose previous owners denied engagement and exercise. We’ll see Gary make a full recovery and spend time exercising Neptune. This will get them ready for the loving homes they both deserve.
The profound message from their story, and countless others, is this: there is nothing "wrong" with most of these dogs. They are loyal, intelligent, and often playful companions, waiting for a chance. If you are contemplating bringing a dog of any breed into your life, please visit your local shelter. Spend time there looking into their eyes and playing with them. You will discover incredible dogs, like Gary and Neptune, yearning for a connection.
The collective effort of many paved the path to rescuing Gary and Neptune. We thank the Rescue Heroes, tireless Volunteers like Ray and Irene, and the kind Adopters who open their homes and hearts. But the need is still immense. Your role in this critical mission might be simpler than you think: share their video. Share this post. Let others see the quality and quantity of dogs waiting. A single share can connect a forgotten dog with a loving family. What if that share were yours?