How To Help With German Shepherd Rescue

Obedient, intelligent, loyal, protective and courageous - these are just some of the characteristics that make German shepherds such wonderful pets. But sadly, some of these animals are abandoned or given up each year, while others may become lost and find themselves looking for a new home.  

Why Volunteer With A German Shepherd Rescue Charity?

Although microchipping has allowed us to make great strides in reuniting lost pets with their owners, some families surrender their German shepherds for a variety of reasons. In fact, they're one of the most common breeds abandoned in the UK. When this happens, it's vital to find a new place for these dogs to live.  

If you want to get involved with German shepherd rescue, UK charities like Dogs Trust run rehoming centres which are perfect for volunteering. There are plenty of other ways you can help out, and you're likely to find the experience very rewarding. You may also find that you pick up some new skills and meet some new friends, both two-legged and four-legged, along the way.  

How To Help With German Shepherd Rescue Charities

VOLUNTEER AT A REHOMING CENTRE 

Shelters like Battersea do lots of incredible work with their efforts to rehome dogs, including German shepherds. There are rescue centres dedicated to this breed in particular, and volunteers are essential in their running. You can help with exercising, socialising and feeding the dogs, as well as making sure their living space is clean. You may also help introduce the animals to their prospective new families.  

BECOME A DOG ASSESSOR 

When German shepherds are surrendered for adoption, assessors visit the homes of owners who are giving them up. They conduct interviews to learn as much about each dog as possible, taking them out for a short walk before taking photographs and completing paperwork that will then be used for the adoption process.  

…OR A FOSTER CARER 

To keep as many animals out of kennels as possible, rescue centres rely on a network of fosterers to look after German shepherds while they wait to be adopted. This is a brilliant way to help, as it allows shelters to cater for as many dogs as possible while preparing them to move to their forever home. This can be very important in the case of dogs who've been mistreated.  

ADOPT A GERMAN SHEPHERD 

If you have the capacity to take on a new permanent family member, then adopting a German shepherd is a wonderful way to help an animal in need. This is not something to be taken lightly. You could take the decision to adopt after volunteering at a rehoming centre for a while first.  

Things To Know Before You Volunteer

If you're interested in a role such as becoming a dog assessor, you'll receive the necessary training to ensure you're fully prepared. In theory, you'll only have to travel to homes in your local area to conduct home visits.  

Where To Get Started

If you're looking for a great cause to support with your volunteering efforts, why not start with the charities below:  

Battersea 

Dogs Trust 

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