Vida is a striking, soulful senior German Shepherd who is ready for a fresh start with someone who truly understands her. At approx. 6 years old, she carries herself with the quiet dignity of a dog who has seen a lot of life and is now looking for stability, comfort, and a person she can call her own. She is not a dog who gives her trust instantly, but when she does, it is deep, loyal, and incredibly meaningful.
There are so many wonderful things about Vida. She is fully housetrained, crate trained, and has a solid obedience foundation. She knows sit, stay, down, come, and leave it, and she clearly takes pride in working with her person. She travels well in the car and has made noticeable progress since coming into foster care, showing that she is capable of growth when given time and consistency. Like many German Shepherds, she is intelligent, observant, and deeply bonded to the people she trusts. Her foster family has seen that while she may initially gravitate more toward men, she is absolutely capable of forming strong, affectionate bonds with women as well, once she feels safe.
Vida is currently on daily medication that will need to be continued by her future family. She received Gabapentin and Onsior to prevent pain/discomfort from her arthritis and she is also on anti-anxiety medication (Fluoxetine). A 30 day supply of all of her medications will be sent with her into an adoptive home and an adopter will need to be vigilant about veterinary care and continuing these prescriptions.
Vida prefers having her people to herself and thrives best when she does not have to share space, attention, or resources with other pets, so she would be best suited to a home where she is the only pet. Due to her sensitivities and need for a calm, predictable environment, Vida would do best in an adult-only home without children. She is also naturally protective of her space and can be wary of strangers in her home, which is very true to her breed. The ideal home for Vida is one with an experienced dog owner (ideally someone familiar with German Shepherds) and someone who is comfortable working on reactivity through trust-building, routine, and continued training. A person or couple who values loyalty over instant affection and who finds joy in earning a dog’s trust will truly appreciate who Vida is.
Vida is not looking for just any home. She is looking for the right one. In return, she offers steady companionship, intelligence, devotion, and the kind of bond that only comes from patience and understanding. For the right person, Vida will be a deeply rewarding companion and a loyal presence.
Our adoption fees cover all up to date veterinary needs, including but not limited to: full veterinary examination, age appropriate vaccinations, fecal test and parasite prevention, wellness bloodwork, spay or neuter, and microchip. All dogs will be started on a 6 week trial of pet insurance after adoption. Local adopters can take advantage of 50% off a training course at Ruff Haus in Barrie (www.ruffhaus.ca) and all adopters will also be signed up for Petcademy to offer 30 days of free text-based behavioural support.
