Keira is a 3-year old black & tan female German Shepherd dog that was an owner surrender to the Monterey County SPCA.

Although Keira was found to be a dog who was very shy, the SPCA Staff worked with her and saw quick improvement, and ended up placing her in their obedience training program at Salinas Valley State Prison. She came a long way in the 1-2 months there, and they were looking to move her on to her next journey in life, and subsequently reached out to GSRNC for assistance in finding her an appropriate home.

Upon evaluation, Keira was found to be hesitant when approached by strangers; however, once the leash was handed over, she recovered quickly and followed along with whatever was asked of her. During her time in the training program, she learned basic commands. When introduced to a young male black lab, she had a great time interacting and playing with her new friend.

After only a few days in her foster home, she is beginning to feel safe, although we continue to take things slow. She is now crate trained, and has great house manners. She has met other dogs in her foster home, and while initially cautious, she ends up having a grand time running the yard. She hasn’t shown much interest in toys as yet, but we suspect this will also change in time. She walks fairly well on leash.

It is pretty clear to us that Keira was not given the love and attention that she deserved in her prior life, and that her interactions with humans were not pleasant. We will do everything possible to help her recover from her ordeal. Because of her shyness, she will need a committed adopter to helping her overcome this behavior and gain confidence, providing her guidance and lots of TLC.

Her reaction to children is unknown at this time, but because of her shyness, either an adult home or one with older children would be best. Her interaction with cats or other small animals is also unknown at this time.

It will be necessary for an adopter to have experience in raising a GSD or other large working breed dog, as well as continue obedience training, based upon positive re-enforcement, to help Keira continue to gain confidence.

Keira is a Level 3 dog being fostered in the Santa Cruz area.