Viking

When a kind shelter worker notified us about Viking, she described his forgiving nature and wonderful smile. She told us of his proud, noble head and beautiful, soulful eyes…Then, she told us that Viking had endured some sort of horrific and long term neglect that had left his once-beautiful coat with permanent damage…

Photos of Viking made tears come to our eyes because we see all of the beautiful qualities that the shelter worker described beneath an exterior that some uncaring person had created. Viking has bald, leathery patches of skin dotting most of his body–the aftermath of YEARS of untreated skin conditions. It hurts our hearts to think about how much pain he suffered and how much his skin must have burned from open wounds. But looking deeper, we can see the heart of a champion, the spirit of a survivor, and the proud nobility that only a German Shepherd can convey. We knew we had to help Viking and we were proud to be the rescue group that would step up for this deserving dog.

Viking will be treated by our vets this week and we will get an accurate diagnosis of what he needs, probably beginning with some soothing oatmeal baths and some great nutrition. We are seeking sponsors to help us offset the costs of what we suspect will be a battery of tests to get a baseline reading on his overall health. Can you pledge a donation in any amount to help us help Viking get the care that he needs? Simply click on DONATE and you can send your gift via credit card, or you can mail your check to our posted address.

Viking will be available for adoption once we have a better idea of what his care needs will be. Obviously, we are seeking a true, dedicated animal lover to help him find the Love that he has never had previously…someone to help make up for all of the heartache and pain of the past…someone who sees what we see in him beneath the surface.

UPDATE 4/15/08
Viking has been making progress. With a nutritious diet and medicated shampoos his skin is less itchy and his hair is starting to return. Our vet says he is very healthy otherwise.

Viking is a very strong dog who will require an experienced handler. He is already making progress with basic commands, and is smart enough that it should not take long for him to become a model canine citizen. We are still working with him to see if he likes all other dogs. He is gentle, but with his curiosity level, he will need to be introduced to other dogs gradually to see what he thinks.

To arrange to meet Viking, please complete the online application first and then contact Mdalescomm@aol.com for more information about him.