When we first met Mabel, she looked so old. Her muscles were atrophied from lack of use. Her coat was dull and matted. Her life could have ended in the shelter as a senior, but it didn't. She walked out into the arms of Coastal K9 German Shepherd Rescue.

Mabel and her brother were dumped at the shelter. Mabel's condition was so bad it was hard to believe she was only eight years old, but she was. Her brother wasn't in as bad condition as Mabel and he was quick to be adopted. Mabel's life had been like many of the female German Shepherds that we see, used for breeding and then tossed away when their use is over. We promised Mabel the day we met her that her future would be bright and full of nothing but love.

Mabel could barely walk when she came in. The first thing was a vet check to get any medications she needed and then the volunteers began daily routines with her, short walks, swimming and, of course, massage. She loved the attention, but even more, she loved her new people. When she got her much-needed grooming, Mabel's eyes sparkled and she walked with her head held just a little higher, as though she was no longer embarrassed of the way she looked.

When you watch Mabel today, it's hard not to see the puppy that she once was. That puppy is still there. She comes out when she gets a hug. Mabel lies in the sunshine watching for her friends to come to her yard. As soon as she sees them, that little puppy comes out, ready to play. She is happy to just lay with them and enjoy the breeze, but she is overjoyed when they pick up a toy and toss it to her. She runs and picks it up and shows her skills shaking it from side to side and sometimes tossing it around. Yes, she loves her toys. She loves to collect them so she has your favorite when you're ready to play with her.

If Mabel could speak, we feel pretty sure she would say something like this, "Please don't feel sorry for me. Life was tough, but I made it through. I love my life now and I choose not to remember the one before. If you have room in your home, I would love to come live with you. I would rather not have another dog. I didn't have good experiences with them before. I don't want you to have to share me with another dog. I know I can make you smile. I will even wear silly hats for you. I can be your best friend, your playmate and your sunshine buddy."

Mabel may be a senior, but she is as young at heart as the twinkle in her eyes. In the shelter most seniors don't make it out alive. In the rescue world, we know it will take longer to get seniors like Mabel adopted, but we have to give them a chance.

If you are interested in meeting this dog, please fill out our online application first. Contact us via email at info@coastalK9gsr.org. The minimum adoption donation ranges from $350 to $500. This amount only partially covers the cost of veterinary care, boarding fees, and other miscellaneous expenses involved in the temporary care and adoption of our dogs and is tax deductible. Prior to placement, all dogs will be spayed or neutered, receive current vaccinations, and are usually microchipped. If not, arrangements will be made on an individual basis. Special consideration may be given to those willing to adopt older dogs or dogs with physical problems.