Severe weather, changes in travel plans, and vehicle breakdowns can all influence whether you are able to return home according to your original schedule. If you have your shepherd at a boarding facility, he's not going anywhere until you can pick him up. If you have employed a pet sitter to care for your shepherd while you are gone and can't get in contact with her, she should be prepared to continue taking care of your shepherd until you have safely returned home. If the sitter leaves her key on the table thinking that you are arriving that evening, a delay in your return could leave your shepherd lonely and hungry.

Additionally, double-check that the emergency contact information you leave with your shepherd's caretaker is current and accurate. The contact that you list should be someone who knows you well, knows your dog well, and will know exactly what to do if something serious happens to you. No one can anticipate a car accident, a sudden and serious illness or injury, or death. However, for your shepherd's sake, it is important that your emergency contact knows your desires for the dog should you be separated from him for a great length of time or permanently.

Dogs are considered property, and therefore they cannot receive any inheritance. But if you want to ensure that your dog is provided for should the unthinkable happen, make sure that the person you've asked to take your dog really wants him. Often, just to be kind, friends or relatives will say, “Yeah, sure, I'd take him for you.” But when the situation becomes real, they are unprepared to follow through with their promise.

If you leave money to someone to care for your dog, they could keep the money and get rid of the dog. If you leave your dog to someone, she doesn't have to accept the dog. Unless you know someone who truly adores your shepherd and would follow through in adopting him, it is wise to make other arrangements. Contact your local German shepherd rescue and ask them questions about willing the dog — with funds to support the rescue — so that they can take him in and place him in an exceptional home.

Though dogs are legally considered property, they're more than this — and they deserve more. Your dog is a member of your family, and he requires just as much love and attention as a person. As long as you keep your shepherd's best interests at heart at all times, you and your dog will always be prepared to handle any situation.