Susan M. Bufano

1952 - 2003

Susan's life was woven amongst the animals she befriended and cared for. Central to her life was a love for German Shepherds. Her first GSD relationship took place when Susan was yet a toddler with a neighbor's German Shepherd, Ping. Susan's family was so taken with Ping that they adopted one of Ping's offspring, Rex. From the time Susan was five, and for twelve great years, Rex was an important part of her life. Later Susan was "mother" to two more German Shepherds, Kip and Pandy.

Throughout her life Susan would befriend countless other dogs and cats, pet-sitting for friends and neighbors when they needed her. Her love for animals was even extended to llamas, as she helped out with a local family that raised llamas. Local squirrels mysteriously appeared regularly at her windows, looking for handouts.

At the time of her sudden death, she was caring for two cats of her own and two "strays". She also cared for her brother's senior Shepherd, Shali, when the need arose. A supporter of various animal rescues, Susan never drove by a dog or cat that appeared lost. She never refused to help any animal in distress. She was always there for the dogs and cats that shared her life. But in her heart was a very special spot for German Shepherds.

VGSR is deeply grateful to Susan's family for the very generous and substantial gift to VGSR in her memory. We think Susan knows that it will go a long way to help the German Shepherd Dogs that she so loved.

Ellen Witherell

VGSR offers very sincere thanks and gratitude to the friends and family of Ellen Witherell. Ellen died recently, and her family requested that in lieu of flowers, memorial contributions be made to VGSR. We have received close to $2,500.00 so far! Thank you so very much for your support and your vote of confidence.