needing advice on purchasing a german shepherd - Page 6

Spartan, it does sound as if you've been burned. I'm sorry for your experience, but I've found there are some wonderful "mentor-type" breeders who are happy to share knowledge. I had a super mentor that I miss every day. Now, he sure had his way of doing things, but isn't that how you learn? From people who have done it, and along the way, you do it yourself and add to your knowledge bank? There are things I'd argue and do differently, but knowing what he thought and why he thought it was an important part of my thought process. Why reinvent the wheel if you have someone to help you? There are people, even breeders, who really do care about the dogs! 

eshelman, actually i am very interested in the possibility of therapy training for my future pup.  yes, i do work with kids with disabilities - most of my students have learning disabilities, or behavior issues - i do have a few on the autism spectrum, and one or two that are considered MR (which is no longer an acceptable term, but i for the life of me can't remember what we're calling it now - they're always changing stuff in special ed), but would never realize they were MR unless you read their sped folder.  i love my students, and i love my job.  i would absolutely be thrilled if i could certify my pup eventually and be able to bring her to school every now and then to work with the kids! 

i just want to give a shout out to everyone who has pm'd me and shared your advice and stories.  i am truly grateful, and though i don't know nearly enough, i do feel a tad bit more comfortable that number 1 - i can learn, and number 2 - that there are plenty of people who are willing to help me learn. 

like i said, i'm going through a divorce, and it's funny how so many times, when you tell someone that, they say their so sorry to hear that.  well, I'M NOT SORRY   i am so pumped at the possibilities for the future for me, my boys, and my plans with our future pup!  this is something i've always wanted to do, and i am finally getting the opportunity to do it!

two moons - actually, my parents never did realize callahan was a shepherd!  what my mom always said though (and she's frankly a little scared of dogs - always has been), was what a great dog he was!  they know now, of course, as this was close to 20 years ago, and i told them the day he passed away.  she was very surprised and kept arguing that he must have been another type of dog

anyhow, i would love to continue to share my journey with anyone who is interested! 

Sent you a PM Suzy,  good luck.

Yes,
by all means share.
That's what this is all about, people sharing.

OK moons, I mentioned Jenni78's litter to Suzy.

wish u luck suzy, yeah i dont get on here anymore cause ppl r asses, some are cool as hell, most are asses. KNOW IT ALL ASSES