Suggestions on getting a dog from MN to MI

Make sure you read up on fearful/shy dogs. It is a challenge and isn't easy! I adopted a fearful/shy dog and am working hard to get her used to strangers and so on. She's coming along great though. I just wanted to let you know that it will probably be difficult at first.

fantastic! best of luck to all involved! =]

I can offer loads of advice on working with scared, shy, dogs. Casey is one... and he has come soooo far! Just let me know

DH, Morrison and I just got back from visiting this little girl.  She is shy and DH stayed on the other side of the room while she and I met.  Then Morrison came in to visit with her and she was a little growly with him.  She is a very sweet little girl and was more scared than aggresive in any way.

After 15 minutes she was more interested in meeting Morrison and they had a good sniff fest.  After about 1/2 hour she came over to sniff at DH, who ignored her and didn't make any sudden moves.

With some patience and training she is going to be an awesome pet.  Her initial shyness wears off very quickly so I don't think she will have any real fear aggresion.  The next step is getting her to Detroit!

 That was so awesome of you to do that. *cheers*

Does the rescue require a home visit? I can send an email to the Michigan Dog Rescue group (which has reps from various dog rescues in MI) to see if anyone lives near you to do it if they don't have anyone. 

 Well everyone, we leave tonight for chicago! We've talked extensively with both the current foster and Vanmorrison (who has been very helpful in everyway she can, we can't thank her enough) and feel comfortable that gracie will be a good addition to our family.

I would be lying if I said that both my wife and I were not a bit on the nervous side, but I think its mostly anticipation/excitement. I will be sure to update the boards once gracie is home . . . well, lets hope that she comes to think of our home as her home. I think she will.

Everyone who has offered input into this adoption has been wonderful. I thank you all. It's amazing what the dog community is capable of!

 In the end we decided that it would be best for us to meet in chicago (halfway) as opposed to a bucket brigade. The fewer "transfers" on her journey the better I think.
 

Congrats! And remember we can never have to many pictures  

I know you already have her home, and congrats on your new pup!

I do wish that the foster hadn't used the term 'spade' ..it's one of my pet peeves

It would depend on timing, but I might be able to help with transport.  Like for example if you have transport volunteers or transport through a rescue I might be able to help move the dog from the southwest corner of MI to Lansing-ish.  So if another transport(s) could get her that far then you'd only have to drive to Lansing and back. 

ETA:  oops, nevermind I just read you are meeting in Chicago.  Good luck!  I can't wait for pics/stories...