Successfully Rescues & Rehomes German Shepherds
By Susan Spisak
Tuesdi Woodworth has been a longtime rescue advocate and lover of German Shepherds, GSD’s. She was one of the founders of Miracle GSD Network, aka Miracle GSD in 2012, focusing on southern CA shelters where this breed of dog was perishing. They’re an informal organization dedicated to helping rescuers navigate the shelter system to pull at-risk dogs quicker. Eventually, Tuesdi knew she wanted to start her own rescue based in the Midcoast/Belfast area and be a partner with the Miracle GSD Network.
So, in 2017, armed with determination, she initiated the foster-based Miracle German Shepherd Dog Rescue of Maine. Woodworth, who has a busy career as CFO for Front Street Shipyard in Belfast, understood the importance of having essentials in place when going live. While she had plenty of experience under her belt, the first few things she did for her own initiative was to file the 501(c)3 and other necessary import paperwork, find a trainer, and secure competent foster homes.
Their dogs come from a variety of avenues. In the past, they rarely took in local relinquishments because at the time there weren’t many requests, but she said that’s changed for a variety of reasons, “I get owner surrender requests every day, and I take in many.” They also still take dogs from out-of-state, primarily from those southern California shelters. She said recently they received two dogs who were victims of the horrific fires in that state. The number of GSD’s she can accept is fluid due to open foster homes. That said, she will board dogs that they’ve taken under their wing to save lives.
Her big need is for new fosters. They preferably need to live about 60 minutes from Belfast so they can transport the dog to vet appointments, etc. as needed. Fosters are asked to provide a good home environment and TLC. A food subsidy can be provided if needed. They’re involved in housebreaking, crate-training, and working on basic commands. Fosters have a thorough application process. (If you’re interested, fill out an application at miraclegsdmaine.org/foster.)
As far as adoption regulations, “We have a pretty detailed process to get people approved.” Expect vet references to be checked and a detailed interview. She wants to match the right person to the right dog. She’ll look for similar personalities, activity level, stamina, and strength of both to get the best fit. If there’s a resident dog, it must be present during the meet and greet to ensure they’ll mesh.
You’re invited to their next event in August at Ales for Tails at Lake St. George Brewing Company in Liberty. Watch their website for details. Tuesdi said it’s a great time with music, a food truck, and plenty of dogs. There’ll be volunteers and adopters that you can chat with as well. She’s so appreciative of them because they’re an amazing support system.
If you’d like to aid their efforts, monetary donations are welcome to cover the sizeable medical/veterinarian expenses, boarding costs, and high-quality bagged kibble which is always needed. Besides new fosters, volunteers are greatly appreciated. Contact her at miraclegsdmaine@gmail.com.
LEAH
9-10 Month old
Playful, goofy Leah arrived here from CA. She’s been with her foster for a couple of months now and has learned a lot! She is a smart puppy. She LOVES baths and is also happy to snuggle on the couch with you! She loves car rides, being groomed and is crate-trained and loves sleeping in it. She is dog-friendly and has been fine with kids. Ok with cats that are dog savvy—she sometimes wants to play rough with the foster's kitty but is responsive to the family’s corrections. She is housebroken as long as she has her routine. She is shy when meeting new people but does warm up and is sweet! Because of this, Leah needs an ACTIVE and PATIENT home that will continue her manners training and make sure she blossoms! Leah and her adopter will receive 2 free training sessions with our trainer too, to get you off on the right foot!
JAMES
6-7 years old
A pup looking for a dedicated and patient owner to help him build his confidence. Once he trusts you, he will shower you with love and loyalty. Desperado thrives with other dogs and would do best in a home with at least one canine companion. His ideal home will be calm and nurturing, with an owner who’s experienced with timid dogs. If you're ready to invest your time and love you may just find a lifelong companion. His adoption fee’s waived, the adopter will receive a $250 stipend if they complete training classes within 4-8 weeks of adoption
If you are a loving home with a big heart, please fill out our application to get the approval process started. We will not schedule any meet and greets without an approved app on file. For more info on Leah, James and all available dogs, all rescue info, and link to application: miraclegsdmaine.org/.
PLEASE NOTE: Thorough vet checks will be done if you’ve had/have pets, including proof of rabies and distemper, an annual heartworm test, and at least 6 months of heartworm preventative purchased annually. Any current pets must be spayed/neutered.