Dove the GSP Was Dropped at the Shelter — Still Lactating

What would you do if you saw a mother dog in a shelter staring back at you with wanting eyes—surrendered while still lactating? For our volunteer, he knew immediately. That dog was Dove, a five-year-old German Shorthaired Pointer whose heartbreaking surrender left her confused, stressed, and overlooked.

In her kennel, Dove barked loudly, just as so many frightened shelter dogs do when the world has turned upside down. To a passerby, she might have seemed unapproachable. But in truth, Dove was simply waiting for someone to see past her fear and notice the gentle, loving soul hidden beneath the noise.

When Greg from California GSP Rescue stepped up to her kennel, everything changed. With a few quiet moments and some treats, Dove began to soften. The barking slowed. Her eyes brightened. A connection was made—and in that instant, Dove’s story of rescue and hope began.

Once out of the shelter, Dove showed her true self. She hopped into the car, calm and trusting. She strolled on leash with ease, ran errands alongside her rescuer, and even joined for a stop at a coffee shop—earning smiles from everyone who met her. In less than 24 hours, the fearful dog in the kennel had transformed into a loving companion, eager to be by her person’s side.

Dove is five years old, healthy, and ready for her next chapter. She gets along well with people and other dogs, and she’ll thrive in a home with a moderately active lifestyle. Most of all, she’s looking for someone who can give her the patience, stability, and love she deserves.

Watch the full video of Dove’s rescue here

If Dove’s story touched your heart, imagine the joy of welcoming her—or a dog like her—into your home. Not ready to adopt? You can still make a difference by supporting California GSP Rescue so we can continue saving dogs like Dove. Together, we can turn heartbreak into hope.