Enckhausen Shepherds - Page 1

Hi- Have seen this posted before back in 2006 but I am hoping someone knows someone who can put me in touch with Shelby Yeakle of Enckhausen Shepherds.  Back in 2000 I received a beautiful Shepherd through Shelby- most beautiful Shepherd I have ever known.  The actual owner was Loren Little- it seems that he has also disappeared off the radar.  Sadly, she just passed several days ago.  I cannot believe the agony I have experienced from the loss.  I was hoping to be able to speak with her to find out more about the litter, etc.  I would love to know more about the family members of my dog (I do know who the parents were) and find out if any siblings are still living.  

I have found it sad that there is no available contact info for anyone associated with Enckhausen Shepherds as they seemed quite reputable at the time I found my dog.  The German Shepherd Club of America gave me the original contact info which no longer works.  All phone numbers/contact info are now unavailable.  

Any help is kindly appreciated during a most difficult grieving process.  This dog was more than a man's best friend: she was kinder, more dignified, and more intelligent than most people and signified a nobility and grace that humanity has lost.  

First, my condolences to you on the loss of your girl.  Thirteen years is a long life for a GSD, and speaks well of your care for her...and it's still too short a time to have them with us, as anyone here will agree with you.  I'm so sorry.

That there isn't any contact info readily available for Enckhausen does not diminish their standing at the time you received your girl or thereafter; people's lives change, however, and sometimes they don't want to reconnect with their previous worlds for a variety of reasons. I don't know if this is the case with the principals of this kennel or not, and perhaps someone else will be able to put you in touch with them.

It's also possible that there may be members here who are familiar with the parents of your girl, or who even may have or had dogs related to her; it would be worth telling us about her, and who her parents were, and see if that information draws out some other posters who can share info with you. 


 

Since Mike Diehl was in partnership with Shelby, perhaps try giving Mike
a call or email. Maybe he can help.
 

Thank you hexe and workingdogz- your words were kind and encouraging.  Fortunately, the owners of Enckhausen Shepherds found out and contacted me- my dogs name was Alexis Vom Enckhausen.  Her parents were:

Cay Vom Osterburg Quell (sire)
Rannie Vom Parchimer Land (dam)

I had a very long conversation with the breeders who have always been helpful and supportive.  Alexis was a big boned dog and as with her mom, she had an amazingly soft and beautiful super thick coat (like a mink's coat) that was sable.  She shed the hair of ten dogs!  I never minded the constant and rigorous shedding.  Although meant to be a working dog, I had her as a companion and traveled with her extensively, but always wanted to give her more- she was so loving and loyal.  On her last day, I continued her lifelong journey and traveled to her favorite places before having her put down at her favorite place.  I still cannot believe the loss.  

The initial acute pain of the loss will soften, but the memories will never fade.    

Initially I thought it was her hips- but it wasn't.  She had good hips and her parents had good hips.  She could not walk and I did not want her to suffer.  Once she no longer had the freedom to use the bathroom, I decided to end her suffering (please note- I carried her for weeks after her rear legs failed to help her use the bathroom).  For a long time she could even urinate on command after I carried her.  I also assisted her 24/7 towards the end.  It seems now in speaking with a few experts that she had canine degenerative myelopathy.  I know that from initial signs until her final hours she lived at least a year (with the help of medication).  The vets never recognized the specific disease but thought there was something wrong with her hips and spinal cord.  It was the breeder who knew immediately from the symptoms what her problem was.  What a debilitating disease.  I am saddened to learn that it affects too many other shepherds as well and there is little known to prevent/stop it.  

All dogs are a blessing.  I have had the opportunity to have several dogs, but she was by far my best friend and loyal companion.  Her friendship taught me so much about life and made life full.  Never say never, but I plan to keep her close in memory but I don't think I will ever get another dog- I plan to enjoy nature and realize and reflect on life as she did.  That will be to her honor.  

have been there too many times myself.  the pain eases when you can focus on the good times rather than the last few moments.
pjp

Thank you Abby Normal and ziegenfarm- I appreciate all your kind comments and encouragement.

Honey, every time I lose a dog I say - that's it......  no more dogs for me...... I'm done...... can't bury one more dog. I give away every single dog thing I own and curl up in a corner. I  don't even want to see another GSD. That lasts anywhere from a month to 6 weeks before I begin buying brand new doggy supplies getting ready for my new companion.

Let us know when you get you new dog. I'm pretty sure you will get one, I can tell by the way you talk about your Alexis. It's a disease with no cure.

Thank you Blitzen- I have always loved animals.  But a GSD is a truly amazing creature.  I have never been without an animal for more than a few years.  GSD lovers are often a breed of their own too.  My experience has shown me they are often caring and compassionate- like their companions.  

Regarding your kind prediction- I will definitely come back on here if I change my mind- I have appreciated all the feedback and help- I never thought I would have received so much support.  

I hope everyone here can enjoy their companion to the fullest- they deserve an extra hug.  

Thanks.