What Does It Mean to Surrender a German Shepherd?

A question often asked by those thinking about giving up their pet is, “What does it mean to surrender a German Shepherd?” As the name implies, it means you’re giving up your rights to the animal. It also means you’ll have no say as to what happens to your dog once you turn them in. While shelters work hard to find good homes for the pets in their care, finding a home for every dog isn’t always possible. That’s why rehoming your dog yourself may be a better option.

Shelter Life 

For some dogs, the shelter environment is frightening and causes them to behave either timidly or aggressively. Either way, if the shelter brings out the worst in your German Shepherd, then they will have a very hard time getting adopted. Even some of the sweetest, most friendly dogs can behave in ways that are out of character once they are in the shelter.

This is something else to consider before surrendering your dog to a shelter. Fortunately, there are better options if you find you can no longer keep your pet.

Tips for Rehoming Your Dog 

Instead of surrendering your dog, why not find them a great home yourself? You already have an advantage as German Shepherds are a popular breed. If you’re thinking that you like the idea of rehoming, but don’t know where to start, you’ll be glad to learn that help is available.

Most shelters and private rescues are happy to offer advice about how to find a great home for your pet. Some private rescues may even be willing work with you to help with adopter screenings and home visits, but they may already be stretched too thin.

Using an online resource like Rehome by Adopt-a-Pet is a great way to find the support you need from the comfort of your own home. Not only will you find tons of tips and expert advice, but Rehome could also be the place where you find a new home for your German Shepherd, as pets who are uploaded to Rehome appear on Adopt-a-Pet where millions of pet adopters are searching for their new best friend.

The site allows you to create a profile of your German Shepherd, and that profile will be available to the millions of people who are looking for a pet every month. You can also answer questions from potential adopters, review applications, and more. 

It’s a difficult to realize you can no longer keep your pet. You owe it your German Shepherd—and to yourself—to do what you can to make sure they’re healthy and happy in a loving new home!