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Shelter dog becomes service dog
Rufus, a King German Shepherd, was surrendered to the Hall County Animal Shelter on Nov. 2, 2011. "Behavior issues" was the reason the previous owner no longer wanted him as a pet. Rufus was given a second chance and was adopted out to a new family the next week. A month later, he was back. "He chases the neighbor's goats." Strike two against Rufus. Marie McDonald, a foster mom for the shelter, saw past his "issues" and was convinced he could be trained. She went on a mission to find him a suitable owner.
Healing Paws for Heros took on Rufus as its next project. The organization trains dogs to become service animals to disabled veterans. He is being trained to pull wheelchairs, pick items up from the floor, and act as a brace when someone falls and needs help getting up. Thanks to Marie and Healing Paws for Heros, a former shelter dog is thriving and loving his new life! |
