What a beautiful dog--inside and out! I saw this on TV today, and the first thing I thought was that big boy needs to be tested for SAR potential. I am glad that Heidi, the trainer is able and willing to do that. If she wasn't, and Hero didn't have 50 people so far who want him, I would have gone there to see if I could adopt him myself. It is not that he is a GSD, and I have GSD's. And it is not just that I do K9 SAR. It was his phenomenal behaviour, and I wanted to be sure that such a wonderful animal would have a happy life. I know I can't save them all, and one person can only do so much. But, Hero's story touched me. Kudos to you, Hero boy, and may your life be filled with love and a new family.
As for the family who signed him over to the shelter because they could not keep him from escaping--AFTER they learned he was a hero? I am beyond tired of hearing this as a reason to throw away an animal. As a trainer I get calls routinely from people who don't care enough about their dogs to teach them, neuter/spay them, try to understand their behaviour, provide a healthy, loving environment for them, and be committed to their care. I am sorry if I sound intolerant and harsh; but, I have heard of, seen or known dogs killed at shelters(euthanized) or suffer and/or die from abuse or neglect so many times it makes my heart hurt. In fact, for the most part I am taking a break from rescue for my own well being right now.
Lion