Sad News

I'm sorry to send this message but wanted the rescue to know... my girl, Gabby, crossed the Rainbow Bridge this morning, peacefully. She was sadly afflicted with DM and her quality of life had declined dramatically. Gabby would be 14 years old next month. Gabby was my foster dog, rescued from life on the streets of DC at 8 months old in 2009. She cheated death at least 5 different times since then, with all sorts of diagnoses, and we often joked that she had 9 lives. Gabby never gave up and fought the good fight. Gunnar and Teddy and I will miss her every day. Thanks to MAGSR who rescued her, then placed her with us. RIP Gabby - you were the very best!

Nancy Stec, and Gunnar and Teddy

Kia joined our family on April 15, 2018.  From the moment Mommy saw her picture on the MAGSR website, she knew that Kia was meant to be a member of our family.  She was believed to be around 7 years old already when we adopted her, but as she was picked up as a stray there was not any information on her background.  She was a beautiful and well behaved dog, very mild mannered for a GSD and just the perfect match for our young children at the time.   We weren't sure how long we may have with her, adopting a dog already 7 years old... but with young children we weren't able to take on a dog that might be too much for us and them.  Kia blessed us with 5 and half amazing years, more than we anticipated!!  She was close to 13 by the time she passed.  She was the sweetest and most loving dog.  She was also the softest, most fluffy (and twice as hairy as a normal GSD we think!), and quite large dog.  We called her our big Bear, because she looked like a black bear.   Her favorite things were Daddy (#1 to everything), treat time, walking to the bus stop, sleeping on her bed, and chewing on her large bone.  Her presence around our home is dearly missed, but we know it was her time.  She was struggling with bad hip dysplasia and hind leg issues, so by the end it was very painful for her to move around on her own.  But she was so brave through it all.  She passed on October 30th peacefully at home, on her bed, right after getting her favorite treats, with Daddy and Mommy right by her side.  She deserved only the best. 

November 4,2018 is Rex day. He was 4 years old at that time. It was a sunny morning when we picked him up. He was afraid of falling leaves and sick with heart worm. When we got him home we learned he was unfamiliar with wood floors and didn’t know how to go upstairs. He urinated on the floor whenever we tried to put his leash on to go outside. And so our love for Rex began. Rex recovered and successfully beat heart worm. We foster failed with Rex feeling he was in the right place at home with us. Rex was never a problem at home no destructive behaviors. He became totally housebroken. He walked well on a leash. He and I covered many miles together during our daily neighborhood and Meadowood Park walks.

We were totally heart broken when we discovered Rex was limping and lame on a Saturday October 21, 2023 morning. The emergency vet tests and X-rays were perfect. Rex cried all night despite pain meds.   We put Rex down Sunday October 22. Maybe he had a stoke? I still can’t write this without tears. He was our reason to get up at 5am everyday. His basic diet was Salmon and rice Purina Proplan. He and I shared carrots, green beans, apples, and yogurt daily. We kept fresh vegetables in the fridge for Rex and me. He had a sensitive stomach and over time we landed on this diet. He was such a good pup. He never stole food, jumped up, didn’t get on the furniture. Our neighbors and strangers were terrified of Rex. His bark was menacing. The UPS lady left his dog food on the sidewalk refusing to come to our door after only seeing a glimpse of Rex at the door. I had to laugh. I told her he wouldn’t bother her but doubt she heard me. Needless to say we didn’t need an alarm!

Rex loved his squeaky balls. He would sleep with them, squeak them, shake them and he didn’t want us to touch them. He would signal us at night to go outside and go to bed. He would lead me into the kitchen to fix lunch, dinner or cook. He was so much a part of our daily life. I’m at a terrible loss without him. It was just so sudden and way too soon. I must say we loved having Rex in our life for these past 5 years. 

Susan & Arnold Greenspun

Sweet Howie was picked up as a stray and brought to a local shelter. Cute as pie this little guy was lucky to have been found by the right people. Upon arrival at the shelter, staff members knew something was not right with Howie. They immediately began pooling resources to determine how they could help. Tests were administered and it was determined that Howie is positive for parvo. Although they knew Howie deserved every chance to survive, the shelter could not provide the 24 hour care needed to help Howie move forward. So, an emergency plea went out. When we learned that Howie needed immediate support, we began working with our team to help him move forward.  Howie is still so very young. In order to survive, he will need to fight and fight hard. He does not yet know it, but MAGSR will fight right alongside him. Parvo is a highly contagious virus; it is particularly challenging for puppies to survive. Although there is no cure, with 24/7 monitoring and supportive care, he has a chance at survival. As we move Howie forward, our vetting partners will be working with Howie to keep him hydrated, control his GI upset, and prevent secondary infections, while also keeping him monitored and warm. Parvo care is very expensive. We need the GSD community's help in order to provide Howie with every chance at survival. Please consider donating to Howie's care now so that this special boy has every opportunity to fight. Howie is in the fight for his life. Will you help him by being his hero?  Tragically, sweet Howie was no longer able to fight and passed away in the middle of the night. May he fly high with the MAGSR dogs who have left before him.

This is with deepest sadness to inform you that Amber passed away today at the age of 12 1/2 years. She was a great pup and will live forever in our hearts. Her sister, Rosalee also adopted from MAGSR crossed the rainbow bridge nine months earlier and she lived to be 16! Run free sweet girls!!!

It's with a heavy heart that I share that Hunter (fka Windsor) crossed the rainbow bridge today. He was taken to the Emergency Vet's office where they found he had carcinoma, fluid around his heart, and internal bleeding. He left peacefully surrounded by his family. Sincerely, Amanda

It is with a very heavy heart to let MAGSR know that Hemlock, who we adopted in September of 2016, went over the Rainbow Bridge on 9/2/2023. Hemlock started to show subtle signs of a disorder in his hind legs after turning 7 years old and when he turned 8 the hind legs were not operational at all. We took him to his usual Vet and even to a 2nd Vet to get a second opinion. Hemlock had Degenerative Myelopathy and lost all use of his hind legs and became incontinent. My son teleworks so he was home with Hemlock to make sure he stayed clean and took Hemlock outside for potty time. This went on for a year and we bought the necessary wraps and training pads and shampoo for when I had to wash Hemlock up.  The Vet reminded me and my son Alex that we have to think about the quality of life for Hemlock. Hemlock loved to run and play and be with us everywhere in the house. Hemlock turned 9 years old on August 2nd and then on September 2nd we took Hemlock to the Vet so my precious boy could go over the Rainbow Bridge.  I am still very sad and life has not been the same without my beautiful Hemlock. He was a very loved German Shepherd. Even my neighbors ask what happened to Hemlock. We were always out walking or going to the dog park.  Hemlock is greatly missed! 

We wanted to let you know that our beloved MAGSR girl Sweet Pea died last week.  She came to us in February, 2013, was only around 12 years old (young by our standards!), and had been completely healthy and spry until just a few weeks ago.  Despite multiple trips to the vet and a stay in the Pet-ER, we never did get a firm diagnosis, but we do know that she had some type of malignancy, her kidneys were degenerating, and she was declining very fast.  At least we were able to bring her home and have a vet come to our house, so she could die on her bed, surrounded by her family.  She was indeed a sweet pea, a real “bomb-proof” dog as our MAGSR adoption coordinator had said, wonderful with children and other people and dogs.  We miss her terribly.  Here are some favorite photos.  Her canine companions (GSD Bear and our daughter’s malinois Finch) are both alums of BARCS.  (Two other companions, Joey and MAGSR alum Bailey, died before her.)  You’ll probably get another adoption application from us soon.  Finch is only an occasional visitor and Bear needs a new partner.  He’s pretty lost without his Sweet Pea. Thank you for having brought this wonderful girl into our lives. Margaret

It is with heavy hearts that we are notifying you of the passing of Andy, renamed Jax, adopted July 18, 2012. He became ill and over the weekend became much worse.  We took him to BeL Air, Md Pet ER. He had fluid in chest and abdomen and heart was failing, nothing could be done so we made the decision then to euthanize then, we did not want him to suffer. He was a sweet, loving gentle Giant and will so miss him.
Thank you for letting us take this wonderful dog into our home for 11 years.

Patricia & Charles Carling 

As a follow up to our previous email, it is with unfathomable sadness that I must tell you that our sweet Zeena passed away on Saturday.  She made it clear to me that it was her time. Although she could still raise her head and she could follow me with her eyes, she could no longer stand up that morning.  I spent 8 hours by her side where she could see me until the vet from Blue Pearl could come to our home and put her to rest. Sadly my family is out of town and could not be here for her. In tribute to Zeena's  2 1/2 years with us, I created the following video for her. 
  Sincerely, The Geslois Family

We rescued Hailey on Jan 2, 2013 when she was 1 1/2 yrs old. She lived to 12 1/2 yrs old. Hailey loved playing, swimming in the pool and being around our family. She was such a loving dog and we miss her terribly. A piece of our hearts are in heaven.

In Loving Memory of Bianca: A Loyal Companion and Faithful Friend It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of our beloved white German Shepherd, Bianca. She graced our lives with unwavering loyalty, boundless affection, and countless cherished memories. We adopted Bianca as a puppy from MAGSR, and her journey began as a ray of light that would shine brightly in our lives for years to come. Bianca was not just a pet; she was a cherished member of our family. With her striking white coat and soulful eyes, she captured the hearts of everyone she met. She had an endearing habit of curling up in front of the fireplace, basking in the warmth and providing us with a sense of comfort and coziness. Her joy was contagious, evident in the way she would eagerly nuzzle up to us for scratches behind her ears. The simple act of petting her brought immeasurable happiness to both her and us. Bianca had an innate ability to connect with people, making her a favorite among our neighbors. She reveled in the attention and affection she received from them, always ready with a wagging tail and a welcoming demeanor. Bianca had a spirited personality that manifested in her playful interactions with delivery drivers. Her vigilant barking at their arrival, though sometimes comical, served as a testament to her protective nature and loyalty to her family. One of her endearing roles was that of a vigilant guardian of our bedroom door against the antics of our mischievous feline companions. She took her duty seriously, ensuring a sense of peace and order in our home. In the garden, Bianca transformed into a devoted assistant to our mother. Her enthusiastic presence made gardening a delightful shared activity, and her companionship provided solace during hours spent among the blooms. Together, they would chase away critters and squirrels, a dynamic duo that kept the garden thriving. Bianca's sociable nature extended beyond our household, as she became a familiar and beloved figure during her daily walks around the neighborhood. She would proudly lead the way, tail held high, stopping to greet neighbors who had grown to adore her presence. Bianca's legacy is one of love, devotion, and joy. She touched our lives in profound ways, leaving an indelible mark on our hearts. As we bid farewell to our dear friend, we find solace in the countless memories we shared and the unwavering bond that will forever connect us. Bianca, your spirit will continue to brighten our lives, and though you have crossed the Rainbow Bridge, your memory will forever live on. Rest in peace, dear Bianca. You will be forever missed and eternally loved. Sincerely,
Jenny  

It is with deep sadness that we share that sweet Gloria earned her wings today. Gloria has only been with us a short time and it didn't take long to see that she has had a rough go at life and was in pain in her backend. We quickly got to work, making her an appointment with an orthopedic specialist and getting her moved to a medical foster home. Upon review of the x-rays, the orthopedic specialist confirmed our fears that she was in need of hip replacements. We just completed the pre-surgery check and she was scheduled to get her first replacement on Wednesday, August 2nd so she could begin her journey of healing and finding a forever family.  At around midnight last night all was well and she was taken out to potty by her foster mom and put to bed for the night. Upon getting her out in the morning her foster instantly knew something was very wrong and put her immediately into the car and headed to the nearest vet as she knew Gloria was bloating. During the ride,  her foster mom knew something wasn't right, she pulled over and it was clear Gloria was passing, so she held her in her arms and loved her. They may only be with us a short time, they may only be fosters but we love them as our own. We are so sad for the loss of our wonderful girl. Gloria was adopted by her loving foster family. Please keep Gloria's foster family and all the MAGSR volunteers in your thoughts as this is very sad day for MAGSR.

In October 2015, we adopted Griffin from MAGSR.  Ever since that time he has brought us great joy and has given us many good memories. On July 25th, with great sadness, we had to say goodbye to Griffin due to a degenerative spinal condition.  Griffin was a wonderful GSD and we were lucky to have had him as a part of our family. Best,
Richard

It is with a sad heart that we inform you that on June 30, 2023 we sent Duke over the Rainbow Bridge. He enlarged our house by four feet and filled our hearts for nine years. He enjoyed dispensing love and kisses to everyone in Damascus (especially in exchange for belly rubs and treats!), He enjoyed beach vacations and snuggling on the couch. The void he leaves is immense.