Shadow's Story

Only two days after a traumatic experience, I came across a breeder in Tampa, Florida with one last male pup from her litter of nine.  The moment I met him, it felt like Shadow needed me just as much as I needed him.  I brought him home that very same day.

​

Shadow is the third shepherd in our family—but our first purebred AKC.  Since day one, life with him has been a whirlwind of adventures.  From earning his S.T.A.R. Puppy title and mastering potty training, to swimming in the pool and attending a Tampa Bay Rays game, Shadow has embraced every experience with curiosity and wonder.

​

Beyond exploring, Shadow has been working hard in training.  Our current goal is for him to pass the Canine Good Citizen (CGC) test with the hope of becoming my service dog.  He’s already earned multiple titles, including Trick Dog Performer, Fit Dog Silver, S.T.A.R. Puppy, Virtual Scent Work Beginner and Virtual Home Manners.

​

At just nine months old, Shadow was diagnosed with Large and Small Intestine Disease—an incurable condition he's possibly had since four months of age.  He also faces other health challenges: Panosteitis, Cryptorchidism, Environmental Allergies, and Allergic Dermatitis.  On his six-month birthday, he suddenly developed reactivity to other dogs.  With the help of our private trainer, we are working to overcome this challenge.

Despite it all, Shadow remains full of life and love.  He learns with enthusiasm, explores with purpose, and "brings light and jazz to the shadows".  He’s my reminder to keep fighting, keep growing, and never give up.

​

- Shadow's Mom