German Shepherd Dog Dogs Available for Adoption in San Marcos, California

URGENT UPDATE! SAMUEL NOW NEEDS TO EXIT BY APRIL 23RD. His adoption fee is just $50 this week at the shelter's adoption event which includes neuter.

We have seen older dogs struggle as there is concrete floors in their kennels and they don't get as much daily exercise as they need to keep their joints fluid. Watch his video - watch him play. He needs a home that can offer him the care and comfort that an older gentleman needs.

WE ARE COURTESY POSTING THIS DOG FOR THE MORENO VALLEY ANIMAL SHELTER TO HELP THEM FIND A HOME. We are helping get the word out of their immediate need. Please save this deserving pooch and clear a kennel for another dog in need today!

This beautiful boy is located in the Moreno Valley shelter. Please contact the shelter directly with questions.

Shelter plea:
We are reaching out with an urgent plea for a gentle giant in need, Samuel (A549014). Samuel is a 7-year-old German Shepherd mix, a big, beautiful boy with a kind and respectful nature. The reporting party that brought him in informed us that Samuel got along well his Golden Retriever, and during his temperament evaluation he met a nervous male Flat-Coated Retriever and interacted gently and appropriately. They were able to play together nicely, showing Samuel’s balanced and social demeanor. Samuel knows “sit,” walks well on leash, and appears to be potty trained. He is an easygoing, affectionate dog who clearly enjoys companionship and connection. Unfortunately, Samuel is showing signs of significant mobility issues. He may be suffering from osteoarthritis in his hips. Despite consistent pain management, he has not shown improvement and has recently begun limping on his front legs as well. He urgently needs a full veterinary workup and may require lifelong medical management, care that is beyond what the shelter can provide. Samuel deserves comfort, stability, and the chance to live out his senior years with dignity and care. He is a sweet, soulful boy who still has so much love to give. Due to his declining mobility and medical needs, Samuel must exit the shelter by 5:00 PM on 04/23/2026.

Samuel #A549014
I am a male, tan and black German Shepherd Dog mix.
The shelter thinks I am about 7 years old.
I weigh approximately 96 lbs.

SEE MORE VIDEOS AND PHOTOS HERE: https://myalbum.com/album/BKLbPanPHXAw7C/

STAFF NOTES:
* Samuel knows sit
* Samuel appears to be potty trained
* Samuel is a gentle giant
* Samuel got along with the RP's Golden Retriever
* Samuel did well on his temperament test with a male flat coat retriever
**if adopted, a sponsor will pay for altering and rabies**

Medical notes:
04/16/26 Quiet, alert, responsive, laying down. Did not attempt to examen. OK to refill pain medications. Recommend medical rescue plea by next Thursday. Recommend bloodwork to continue NSAIDs long term to assess renal and liver values.
Rx:Carprofen 100- 1 tablet by mouth twice a day for 7 days
Gabapentin 300mg - 1 tab by mouth twice a day for 7 days

04/16/26 (Update) Pet was taken for a walk by city employees, when returned employee stated that he did great but when coming back his hips gave out and he was having a hard time walking back. Had to take multiple breaks.

03/24/26 Dog has a difficult time rising, ataxic in hind limbs. Likely osteoarthritis due to age and weight. Rads can be done of hips, stifles etc to further assess.

Moreno Valley Animal Shelter
14041 Elsworth Street, Moreno Valley, CA 92553
General Inquiries: animalshelter@moval.org
951-413-3790
Adoption hours:
Tuesday - Friday 10 am - 5 pm
Saturday 10:30 am - 3:30 pm
Closed Sunday-Monday & Holidays

The German Shepherd Dog, known for its intelligence, loyalty, and versatility, is a popular and highly regarded breed worldwide. This breed excels in various roles such as police work, search and rescue, and assistance for individuals with disabilities. German Shepherd Dogs are strong, agile, and confident with a distinctive double coat that can be straight or wavy. Their character is marked by courage, loyalty, and a strong work ethic, making them ideal companions and protectors for families and professionals alike.