These can be scary times for Great Danes. Colleen Leahy, who co-founded Great Dane Rescue of Northern California in the Sacramento area back in 1987, says it's a rare day that she doesn't hear from someone looking to re-home a Dane. Sometimes it's just a mismatch, in which the humans are simply unprepared to deal with training and caring for a big dog. More often, people lose homes and jobs and have to give up their companions.
The economy packs another whammy: Leahy says more and more of the dogs who arrive in rescue need medical care for issues their previous owners couldn't afford to treat, with cherry eye being an especially common problem. Then, she adds, there's a growing problem with backyard breeders looking to supplement their income by breeding Danes, with little regard to the dogs' health or their placement in suitable homes. Net result: more dogs landing in shelters in need of extra TLC.
Currently placing about four dogs each month, GDRNC is committed to rescuing Danes and getting them the care they require until the right home comes along for each dog. Like the beautiful Brennan here, who's looking for a loving and Dane-savvy home. At 4 1/2, she'd be happy as your only dog but could probably live well with an easygoing male. Her obedience skills and leash manners are excellent; she loves people and greets them happily. If you think she's the one for you, get more info here.
