"Sage" was my #1 dog, the successor to my long-time German Shepherd friend Buddy. I rescued Sage from the Sac City Shelter on September 13, 2002. He was a mature dog (8-10 yrs old), but healthy and full of life. Originally, Sage was one of many GSRSV dogs up for adoption. However, he quickly won my heart by staying right next to me whenever I was in the corral with the other rescue dogs at the former Yuba City rescue facility. Soon, Sage was off the Website and in the house, sleeping right next to me. Sage was a model to break all the myths about adopting an older dog: he bonded immediately with me, was very obedient, and adjusted well to several different boarding situations. There were times when I had to remind myself that Sage did not spend his entire life with me.
It is heartbreaking to lose Sage, but the happiness that dog brought me outweighs the heartbreak by any measure. In Sage's memory, I ask this of all prospective adopters: PLEASE consider adopting an older dog. Old dogs don't stand a chance in the shelters, and rescue groups are hesitant to pull older dogs, knowing that they will likely not be able to find them homes. Old dogs are so grateful for the gift of love and a home, you'll never regret adopting one. So long, Sage. I loved you so much.
-Brian Foran
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