Etta

Before Etta arrived at Coastal, she was singing the blues. Poor doesn’t even begin to describe her situation. Etta is so skinny that you can actually count the bones in her spine. We had a difficult time judging her age because her teeth appear to be worn down by gnawing on something unnatural such as rock or chain link. The saddest part of all is that Etta wasn’t picked up as a stray, she was turned into the shelter by her owner in this almost hopeless condition.

Second helpings of yummy food and a soft, warm bed to sleep on were probably only things that Etta could have dreamt of before arriving at Coastal. Now that she is living the good life in a temporary foster home, Etta has started whistling a much happier tune. However, we need to find Etta a long-term foster or forever home soon to keep the music flowing in her heart.

You would think that going from rags to riches so quickly would spoil a girl, right? Not Etta, she is as sweet and humble as they come. Etta is grateful for every ounce of affection bestowed on her and is always happy to reciprocate with twice as much love.

Etta wasn’t always so under-loved and unappreciated. At some point someone cared enough about her to teach her the basic commands. Etta eagerly performs SIT, SHAKE, DOWN, and SPEAK. We wouldn’t be surprised to hear her belt out a song when she meets you.

At last, my love has come along
My lonely days are over
And life is like a song…

9/21/09 Update from Etta's foster mom:
Etta came home with us and met a large pack of dogs (big & small), kids, parents, grandparents - she was pretty puzzled but in a very short period of time, she has caught on and bought into the progam very quickly! (Etta IS a German Shepherd after all!) The pack accepted her almost instantly. Her newest pictures tell the story that she likes all dogs big or small!

Etta is quickly buying into obedience - she now has perfected the automatic "sit" when her foster mom stops, walks really well on a leash but will lead you if you allow her to. She sits and waits for her food but will not touch it until you give her the "ok" command. Thankfully, Etta is starting to put on some much needed weight.

The coolest thing about Etta is that she makes sure to have a toy in her mouth and prances around the room until someone grabs the toy and plays with her. She is starting to understand the concept of a squeaky toy. She is starting to learn how to share. She will do well with someone with strong leadership. We have not heard her bark at anyone. She also likes to keep you in her sight at all times when we are in public. She loves to go in crates but does fine without one, i.e., she is reliably housebroken. When we go out and she is left alone at home, she will just go in the room and sleep on her bed. She loves all kids, big or small and will be a great family member.

Etta's only "no" is no kitties - she likes them with salt & pepper!

If you are interested in meeting Etta, please contact Tiffany via email at tiffanycgsr@sbcglobal.net. Don't forget to fill out our online application

The minimum adoption donation ranges from $400 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.

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