July 25, 2025:  After 2 weeks in foster care, Ava is blossoming.  She is gaining confidence, gaining weight, showing her playful side, and learning the household rules.  She has the potential to be an athletic dog, and may enjoy playing with another dog. She enjoys her walks, and would likely make a good hiking or running buddy.  She has some separation anxiety but it's not extreme.  She does better when another dog is with her. She has a good "off" switch and can spend a lot of the day snoozing on her bed.  She is a delightful dog!

July 11, 2025:  Ava is a gorgeous, young German Shepherd who has experienced a major disruption in her life.  She arrived quite frightened of everything but is slowly settling in and learning to trust.  She is looking for a stable, quiet home where she can bond closely with her people. Although not a fan of the crate, she has good house manners, and seems to be completely housebroken. After a period of introduction and under close supervision, she is currently living with another dog, one inside cat, and two outside cats.  Ava walks nicely on a leash, and could excel with formal obedience or scent work training. She has a beautiful gait and is a pleasure to watch run.  Her ideal family would be one whose members were home and able to give her attention throughout at least part of the day in order to give her the continuity she needs to bring out the goofy, fun shepherd that is hiding just below the surface.  Ava is being fostered in southwestern Virginia, near Blacksburg.  If you are an approved adopter and would like to find out more about Ava, please contact her foster at bvfgsdfosters@gmail.com.