Adopted May 2005 Rudy was an owner give-up. His family discovered that they really couldn't handle a German Shepherd. Rudy had AKC papers, although his pedigree wasn't impressive unless you are moved by fancy-sounding names. When purchasing a puppy, one must learn how to read pedigrees for health and titles. When the "breeder" (puppy producer) was contacted about their own dog potentially going to a pound, their comment was that they were full and couldn't take him back. A reputable breeder will always take their dog back because they consider them family.

Even Rudy's adoption paperwork was illegal in Illinois, stating a 24 hours health guarantee and no refund of money (only a puppy exchange). In the state of Illinois, a breeder must provide a 7 day health guarantee and either refund the cost of the dog OR exchange the puppy. A refund of money is required by law, so their paperwork is not legal.

Despite his beginnings, Rudy was an exceptional dog. He had been very clean, friendly, and well behaved. He won over his caretakers early on and had continued to be a good dog. He was an awkward teenager with gangly legs and was very thin. We don't know why his previous owners didn't feed him well, but he had enjoyed regular meal times and attention while in rescue.

A special thank you goes out to Rudy's sponsors: Michael and Sherry Eckert in memory of Ezekial and Lechariah.

People who breed without bettering the breed are not reputable breeders. They are "backyard breeders" or "puppy millers." They sometimes refer to themselves as "small breeders" or "family breeders." They are no more than people making a buck. Reputable breeders better the breed by showing their dogs and gaining titles that prove the fitness of their dog's breeding lines. Please read What constitutes a good breeder?