GSD Rescue Indy

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GSD Rescue Indy

Located in Indianapolis IN, GSD Rescue Indy is a no-kill shelter dedicated to saving the GSD breed. Located in Indianapolis, Indiana.

Specializing in fearful, feral, medical, senior, and behavioral, the rescue/sanctuary has saved over 1300 dogs since 2011. German Shepherd Rescue Indy's mission is to save hard-to adopt purebred GSDs in kill shelters in the tri-state area.

08/10/2025

I don’t know how much easier to make things.

08/10/2025

There is a difference. Dogs have incredible instinct. First picture is of Amy at Indianapolis Animal Care Services (IACS). Second, is at the rescue.

IACS does the very best with what they have so I’m not criticizing them. I’m posting this to demonstrate that even though they are contained, they have a much more peaceful environment at the rescue.

They have a full view with very little sight restraint. They have comfortable mesh or padded beds and the seniors are given crate pads for added comfort.

Some may say, “Oh, those poor dogs!” Please know, they were facing being killed. Yes, I would love for them all to have homes but the reality is when a dog reaches the age of 5 years and up, their chances of being adopted greatly declines.

I’ve wanted to move toward full sanctuary but there’s so many younger dogs that I’ve pulled that have found great homes. It may take me longer than a city shelter but rarely do I have a return.

A shelter employee revealed that (not divulging which shelter) out of 10 shepherds they adopt, an average of 3 are returned with a bite and they are immediately euthanized.

German Shepherd Dogs should not be free to inexperienced homes. Said it. Meant it.

Obviously, I can’t be at the shelter ready to scoop up each one that enters. I wish I could. No GSD would receive a death sentence because their owner is inexperienced and couldn’t foresee a bad situation. If they did bite, I wouldn’t kill them over it.

One would think with access to SO much information on the the breed that people would be well-informed and educated prior to adopting any breed.

However, when people are in a shelter viewing dog after dog after dog (all free), and when they see a GSD with all its beauty, they naturally want them. I mean, it would make them look cool to their friends and neighbors.

I speak the truth and it needs to be said because they are getting killed at an unprecedented rate nationwide.

I want them all to be given a reasonable chance at a better life for whether that is in a home or perched on a bed at the farm.

07/10/2025

This is where I spend 10+ hours of my day. Every Day.

Some see dogs in cages. These people are uneducated in animal welfare. They don’t have the slightest clue how many dogs are in need everywhere.

Those who don’t work in animal welfare probably wonder why all the dogs aren’t loose and living in a Disney-like wonderland. I get that question a lot.
If you ask me, you must ask all shelters including well-funded humane societies. We all keep them contained.

They are loved.

The dogs at the rescue have huge outdoor runs that allow a full sprint. They aren’t placed in square runs. They have 80’ feet long runs and of course the open fields at the farm (all fenced).

All but three dogs have window and outdoor views. The doors are usually kept open regardless of the weather. They have fresh farm air, an air ventilation system that pulls fresh air inside from the outside and an internal fan that pulls inside air, outside. They have a duo HVAC system in case one fails.

Approximately 75% of the shepherds that the rescue saves were facing euthanasia due to space. They aren’t old dogs, they are young friendly shepherds in danger simply because more dogs need their kennel. It’s damn near criminal.

The remaining 15% were due to health or behavior. I’m rescuing less with behavior issues because there is a decreasing number of families that will consider them.

Sometimes I stop and look at all the shepherds and wonder…how can THIS many people NOT be able to deal with their responsibilities? This many people couldn’t “do it”? I bet they all have full bellies and a home. I bet they’ve never lost their bed or were abandoned by someone.

Gone is the hard work, replaced by the lure of convenience and addiction to comfort and ease. I see it with applications. Hardly anyone will consider a dog over three years of age. It makes me angry, quite honestly.

God help the working breeds, the dogs that don’t fit in a purse or end in “oodle” in today’s society. We’re screwed.

07/10/2025

Still waiting on second opinion and estimate for Charlie’s FHO surgery and prognosis.

He is mobile, taking his medication and eating well.

Waiting on Diamond’s bloodwork interpretation prior to mass removal (pictured is her mischievous self).

Working simultaneously on several medical issues with numerous dogs.

The rescue will be closed next Monday and Tuesday, October 13 & 14. If you need to reach the rescue, the only way is email. No text. Unknown numbers go to message spam folder. Emails will receive automated response that rescue is closed those particular days. Always closed on Sunday.

Shelters: Private number is always available 7 days a week. If you’re a shelter and do not have new private number, please email. Trying to expedite urgent dogs in need.

To ensure I don’t miss an important message and to keep numerous communication manageable and organized, please just use email. I check it religiously.

Email: [email protected]

04/10/2025

I’ve sent Charlie’s medical information to another trusted veterinarian just to be sure I have as much information as possible.

I used to feel guilty asking another veterinarian they’re opinion but one of my vets (Dr. Mills, Franklin Animal Clinic) said he appreciates it because they could find out useful information from each other.

I’ll keep everyone posted. I won’t let Charlie wait too long without a plan.

Thanks for following him.

04/10/2025

If I see Charlie free, I will use Lap of Love and he will be given peace and respect. This is a very hard decision. I’m praying for a clear answer.

04/10/2025

I don’t have great news about Charlie’s health. His left hip has severe dysplasia. He will require a FHO however a biopsy is recommended to determine if there is cancer. He has minor bone growths on his spine. The prostrate is also enlarged.

I don’t know what to do. Charlie is not a young dog. Said to be 5 years of age. That’s middle-aged for a GSD.

I could have the FHO surgery and they could find cancer via a biopsy. In time, because of over-compensation and existing arthritis in his right hip, he would may need a total hip replacement costing upwards of $10k.

Nothing can be done until his skin condition improves.

For transparency, I’ve included the results and email from Dr. Glick at Brookville Road Animal Hospital.

There are so so many GSDs that are waiting on the rescue. I’m absolutely overwhelmed emotionally.

I need to search my soul and pray about what is best for Charlie. Of course finances unfortunately is also a concern.

I don’t want Charlie to be in pain. He doesn’t understand any of this. He just wants to be happy.

His former owner contacted Indianapolis animal care services to inquire about Charlie. They were worried about him. They loved him but they couldn’t afford his vet care. I approved the shelter telling the owners that he was with me and that they could reach out.

04/10/2025

Thank you for the lovely comments regarding Bjorn. 💔

Today is his day.

Thank you all for your Friday donations. They are greatly needed and so appreciated.

Tomorrow I will provide an update on Charlie and share a video.

Good night.

03/10/2025

God & Bjorn,

Thank you for this heartbreak. For without it, I would not know such amazing love.

Bjorn, thank you for refining my depth of patience. For pushing me when I frankly, was very frustrated with you. Thanks for keeping me on my toes and for reminding me how perfectly imperfect you were.

Thank you for ultimately trusting me. You turned into such a good boy! You rewarded me with kisses and believe beyond many of the other dogs who had much better beginnings.

I hope you’re enjoying Heaven! Are you among the sun-kissed flowers? I know you’re basking in the omnipotent holy light. Enjoy your perfect body, no more pancreas problem, huh boy? I see you running with reckless abandon without restraint! I hope you’re running as fast as possible. As my earthly body releases the leash, I want you to Run, Bjorn, RUN!!!!!

God, give me more. In your name, AMEN.

03/10/2025

A perfect boy. Bjorn. Two years later. (2023)

03/10/2025

Progress…Bjorn

03/10/2025

Ouch. Bjorn showing promise.

Address

Opening Hours

Tuesday	09:00 - 18:00
Wednesday	09:00 - 18:00
Thursday	09:00 - 18:00
Friday	09:00 - 18:00
Saturday	09:00 - 18:00

Website

http://www.GSDrescueIndy.org/

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