Welcome!
Greater California German Shepherd Rescue is an all volunteer group dedicated to rescuing German Shepherd Dogs from unacceptable situations and finding them permanent, loving homes with qualified owners.
To find out how you can help us in these efforts, please see our How to Help section, where you'll find information about donating, volunteering, and fostering.
If you are interested in adopting one of our German Shepherds, please see the Dogs section for listings of adoptable dogs and our Calendar for a schedule of our Adoption events. The first step toward adopting one of our dogs is to fill out an Adoption Questionnaire. Click here for our Adoption Questionnaire (pdf).
See us also on Petfinder.
About German Shepherds
German Shepherds aren't for everyone. They're big, energetic dogs with long tails, and can clear a coffee table with one swipe. They have a lot of hair with a double coat, and that means they shed year round - and they shed a LOT.
They're active, alert, assertive, noisy and mouthy. They take work - a LOT of work. They need socialization, leadership, exercise and a job, or they'll find their own amusements, usually by chewing, digging, barking or escaping. They tend to get territorial and protective.
If you don't mind all that, if you understand and love the breed, and are willing to put the necessary work into one, you'll end up with a very intelligent, very devoted, and very responsible member of the family. There isn't a finer family dog or for all-around purposes than a good German Shepherd that is well trained and well socialized.
"The German Shepherd Dog is known throughout the world for his uncanny intelligence and faithfulness. This versatile breed has well-earned the reputation as family companion, guide dog, police dog, and, of course, herder."
– American Kennel Club
Donate
Our rescue dogs need vaccinations and other preventive care, and some need more extensive treatment. When we have more dogs than foster homes, we need to board some dogs in commercial kennels. Since our adoption fee covers less than half of our costs per dog, we need revenue from other sources. Checks, cash, and dog supplies are always helpful. Easiest of all, you can donate directly from this Web page, using PayPal!
Thank you! Greater California German Shepherd Rescue is a public nonprofit (501c3) charitable organization, and your donations are tax deductible.
We also need a variety of supplies, including dog bowls and leashes. We are short on German Shepherd-size dog crates and choke, prong, and flat collars. We need camping canopies and a small trailer to support our adoption events. Donated supplies can be dropped off at our Adoption Days or by appointment, and we'll send you a thank-you note for your records.
Adoption Days
First Saturday of every month in Modesto:
Petsmart
2100 McHenry Ave
Modesto, CA 95350
(209) 574-0441
Second Saturday of every month in Vacaville:
Petsmart
1621 East Monte Vista Ave
Vacaville, CA 95688
(707) 469-9066
Third Saturday of every month in Sacramento:
Petsmart
10830 Olson Drive
Rancho Cordova, CA 95670
(916) 851-1813
Fourth Saturday of every month in Benicia:
Pet Food Express
838 Southampton Road
Benicia, CA 94510
(707) 748-4477
See additional information and directions on our Calendar page.