Zemo is one of the sorriest looking fellows that we've rescued in awhile. His pictures don't reflect it - we weren't able to get before photos, rather these are in his foster home after a buff and polish.

When rescued, this poor guy couldn't (or wouldn't) lift his head, his eyes were glued shut from an infection and he had mats of hair all over him (take a look at Lobo's before photos, take it times 3 and you'll have an image of Zemo upon rescue). Dogs like Zemo keep us going. We think (as does our vet) that he is about 5 years old (his paperwork reflects 8 years old).

He was admitted to a hospital late on the night of his rescue because our volunteer was sure that he needed fluids and not general boarding. He was whisked off the next day for a bath and you are seeing the results of that simple act. So many dogs are overlooked in a shelter because their hair is matted or their eyes have gunk or their ears have flystrike. We try so hard to look beyond the initial picture and see the gorgeous shepherd behind the mess.

Zemo had a cold, along with ear, eye and skin infections. However, these are all easily treatable - he has a marvelous appetite, he LOVES being inside (especially in a cozy crate) and he knows simple commands. We are going to help Zemo get 100%, get him neutered and we can't wait to see photos of him just two weeks after rescue!

Zemo is doing great, well on the road to a complete recovery!

Here is an update from his foster mom:

Every once in a while we meet a dog that can truly be called a gentleman. Zemo is one of those rare dogs. Want a dog that will insist that you throw a ball until your arm falls off? One that will keep you to your training schedule by waking you up at 5 am to go for a run? Zemo is not for you. But, if you would love to have a loyal, calm companion who will contentedly lie at your feet while you watch TV, who will sleep quietly at the foot of your bed, whose idea of a work out is a stroll around the block, who walks nicely on a leash and will lie down and go to sleep during a car ride-Zemo is your man! He is completely house trained, and his eyes, ears and skin are pretty much all cleared up. He might be hard to spot at adoption events-he prefers to hang out in the back of the car than associate with the other dogs. But, if you take the time to come over to meet the Z-Man you just might find your new best friend.