Sampson was born Oct. 1, 1995

He's a great fella, extremely smart, affectionate and loyal to his family, great with his kids, but unfortunately, not with outsiders---especially the neighborhood children. We suspect that the children were teasing him through the windows when we weren't home, as the behavior worsened during his second year.  He grabbed one by the back of her shirt during the summer of '97, and raked one of his teeth across her back.  Due to the fear that he might do this again ( or worse ), we put out word that he needed a new home.  The vet's office let us put up a sign, and we listed Sampson through German Shepherd Rescue.  The Rescue organization was extremely helpful.  They had one of their people examine Sampson to determine if we were dealing with a aggressive dog, or simple juvenile behavior caused by the environment (teasing children).  Barbara worked with him for half an hour, putting him through his paces (Sam and I took obedience classes together), and testing his behavior.  She made abrupt movements meant to startle, pinched sensitive areas, handled legs, ears and tail.  He was extremely friendly throughout the test, so they deemed him placeable.  This would have to be with a family or person without children, who had had a shepherd in the past and could continue the training; thus avoiding a repeat biting.

We did eventually place him two months later(via the vet) with a semi-retired gentleman from Absecon, NJ.  They are doing very well together.  The day we gave him up, however, was one of the worst, since it was like giving up a member of our own family.  We missed him terribly, and our other dog was lonely.  So I went scanning through webpages looking at dogs for adoption.  I was distressed to see how many dogs are out there, in foster homes, kennels and shelters, just waiting to be adopted.  So many never find homes.

We did adopt a 7 year old black labrador named Roxie. She came to live with us on the Monday before Thanksgiving '97, and settled in as if she had always been here.  It wasn't like having Sampson, since no one could expect another dog to be the same, but she has such personality!  We adopted her via our friend Tommy ( his friend Jimmy had to give her up---she was in a shelter up in Bergen County ), who bailed her out and kept her for a week to make sure that she was free of illness, then brought her over.

I really encourage anyone who is thinking about getting a dog, to adopt one if possible! You skip all the puppy stuff ( which is okay, if you like wet carpets, chewed furniture, etc. ), and gain a lifelong friend!  All most of those dogs need is a little love and obediance training!
See www.petfinder.com to find one!