Susan Shahoda is a lifelong dog lover who has devoted much of the past 15 years to volunteering with Westside German Shepherd Rescue in Los Angeles, CA.  But don’t let the name fool you –  Westside rescues dogs of all shapes & sizes and adopts to families throughout the continental U.S. and Canada. In fact, Westside is celebrating 20 years and 20,000 dogs finding loving homes!
 
What should potential adopters look for in a rescue organization? Why are those adoption applications so long? How do rescues determine which dogs get chosen?  And what do rescues really think about people who can’t keep their dogs anymore? Susan gives us a true behind-the-scenes view of running a rescue organization. 
 
Susan also shares her thoughts on the unsung heroes of the animal welfare community, the surprising benefit of the Nextdoor App, the best & the hardest parts of rescue and what keeps her going even in the tough times.
 
We’ll also learn how Susan’s life has been touched by Laurel, a special needs German Shepherd Dog who suffers from permanent neurological damage after contracting Canine Distemper virus.
                                
In the season of giving, your generosity is appreciated by organizations like Westside German Shepherd Rescue and your local animal shelter and rescue groups.
 
Find Links, Show Notes & Photos at:
https://believeindogpodcast.com/episodes-1/episode60

 
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