According to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, approximately 6.5 million companion animals enter shelters across the country each year. Of these, approximately 3.3 million are dogs and approximately 3.2 million are cats.
Each week, The Arizona Republic features several pets up for adoption at Valley shelters. Please contact the shelter directly to confirm the status of a specific animal.
Misty: A happy and bouncy girl
Misty was originally rescued by Arizona Humane Society abuse investigators in March of last year on suspicion of abandonment, but unfortunately it was discovered that her owner had passed away and there was no one else to care for her. With nowhere else to turn, she found herself in a shelter.
After an examination at the AHS Trauma Hospital, it was determined that the 6-year-old Australian Cattle Dog/Chow Chow mix needed several worn and broken teeth removed. After recovering from her illness, the beautiful girl was immediately adopted. A few months passed and cute Misty was sadly returned a few days after Christmas as her owner was sadly unable to care for her anymore.
A second examination by a veterinarian at the trauma hospital revealed that Misty had lost weight since being adopted. Laboratory tests reveal that Misty's Valley Fever blood test has a low titer. At this time, it is believed that low titers are related to previous exposure rather than active infection, but should be monitored with future veterinarians.
Recruitment method: Those who know Misty say she is a very happy, energetic, sweet girl who loves attention from everyone around her. Although Misty loves people and dogs that are at least as big and energetic as herself, she will do best in her home where there are no pets smaller than herself. Interested adopters can meet the mysterious Misty at AHS' South Mountain location. Her $49 adoption fee includes spaying, current vaccinations, a microchip, and a follow-up health exam at VCA Veterinary Hospital. For more information, visit azhumane.org/adopt.
— Kelsey Dickerson, Arizona Humane Society
Beautiful: beautiful inside and out
Lovely is also known as Lovely, and both names describe her kind nature. This 5 year old female is looking for her forever home. She was found in the summer, but her foster parents were unable to make a long-term commitment because the other cats weren't ready for a new friend in their home.
They may be shy at first, but once you get used to them, they will show you kindness. She loves pets and will swat you with her paw when she wants more attention. As this cute girl gets used to you, she will show her more mischievous and fun side.
Recruitment method: Visit us at 10807 N 96th Ave., Peoria or call 623-773-2246. Tuesday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Other adoption locations are the Youngtown location, 11129 W Michigan Ave., Suite 1; Same hours and days, Surprise PetSmart, 13764 Bell Road.
— Deb Heise, Sun Cities 4 Poses
JJ: Corey Loyalty
With a face as sweet as a potato pie and the body of the wrinkliest (and cutest) baked potato, there's something truly special about JJ. One look at his adorable face and it's no wonder how loving this 4-year-old American Pitbull and Terrier mix is.
JJ and three other dogs were rescued by emergency abuse investigators from the Arizona Humane Society from being abandoned in a backyard earlier this month. Thankfully, once this beautiful boy was admitted to the shelter's trauma hospital, it was determined that he did not require much treatment. After a vet visit and neutering, JJ is ready for his true forever home.
Those who know his round face say his smile is as big as his heart. Known for his playful personality and loyal spirit, JJ is looking for a human who loves belly rubs as much as he loves getting belly rubs between adventures and playtimes.
Recruitment method: As AHS continues to struggle with capacity, especially for large dogs, the shelter is encouraging the community to share the stories of puppies like JJ and open their hearts and homes to rescue pets in need. By encouraging others, she hopes to help puppies like JJ find their forever homes. Interested adopters can meet the delightful JJ at AHS's PetSmart Her Scottsdale store. His $49 adoption fee includes spay/neuter, current vaccinations, microchip, and follow-up health exam at VCA Animal Hospital. For more information, visit azhumane.org/adopt.
— Kelsey Dickerson, Arizona Humane Society
Fizzy: Amateur biscuit maker
Fiji is a neutered short-haired “thin” calico cat who is approximately 7 years old. Dilute calico cats have a lighter color than most calico cats. This affectionate girl likes to perch in cat trees or stretch out on cat trees for naps. She's sweet and friendly, Fiji greets everyone new to her and never stops purring. She doesn't require much care and is happy cuddling with her afghan or playing gently with her fun toys. Biscuit making is also one of her favorite hobbies.
She tested positive for FIV but is otherwise very healthy. She doesn't need medicine or special food, and she can live a long and happy life. Friends for Life Animal Rescue's adoption consultants can provide more information about FIV and what it means for families looking to adopt with FIV.
Recruitment method: If you are interested in adopting Fiji, please contact Friends for Life Animal Rescue at 480-497-8296. Friends for Life Animal Rescue is located at 952 W. Melody Lane in Gilbert. Her adoption fee is her $175.00. For more information about the adoption center and other cats and dogs looking for homes, please visit her website at Friends for Life, http://www.azfriends.org.
— Janelle Cosgriff, “Friends for Life”
