Every year, approximately 6.5 million companion animals enter shelters nationwide, according to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals. Of those, about 3.3 million are dogs and 3.2 million are cats.
Each week, The Arizona Republic highlights a handful of the many pets up for adoption at Valley shelters. To check the status of a specific animal, please contact the shelter directly.
Gladys: This Shepherd mix loves a car ride
Meet Gladys, a 7-year-old German Shepherd mix who has been in the Arizona Humane Society's care since January. She was transferred to our South Mountain Campus from a local emergency animal clinic after a Good Samaritan found her aimlessly wandering the streets as a stray.
Once in our trauma hospital, veterinarians discovered that Gladys' vision was impaired, and she was suffering from hip dysplasia. With official medical disclosures for dry eye and pannus, an inflammatory autoimmune disease of the cornea, it has been determined that Gladys will need continued treatment to prolong her vision and ensure she's living comfortably. But this sweet girl is more than worth the effort.
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Gladys has been absolutely friendly to all staff members and volunteers who work with her at the shelter and is a pro at walking on a leash. She recently went on a dog field trip, and we learned she loves car rides, too.
While in foster care, her temporary caregivers reported that she was an absolute treasure and shone like the brightest diamond when outside the shelter. At 55 pounds, Gladys would do best in a home that can provide adequate mental stimulation and physical activity for her breed.
How to adopt: Interested adopters can meet the gorgeous Gladys at AHS’ South Mountain location. Her adoption fee is currently waived and includes her spay surgery, current vaccinations, a microchip and a follow-up wellness exam with a VCA Animal Hospital. Visit azhumane.org/adopt for more information.
Emma Helfrich – Arizona Humane Society
Oliver: After a hard life, he's ready for a new start
Meet Oliver, a resilient 1-year-old Blue Nose American Pit Bull Terrier whose journey from a stray to a survivor is nothing short of inspiring. When Oliver was rescued, he bore a litany of injuries, including puncture wounds, a fractured leg, and a bloated abdomen, indicative of a life filled with hardship.
Upon arrival at the Arizona Humane Society, Oliver was swiftly admitted to the Lazin Animal Foundation Trauma Hospital, where x-rays revealed the extent of his injuries — a stomach filled with stones and a fractured leg with signs of bone infection. Due to the threat of sepsis, the decision was made to amputate his damaged limb.
Following a successful surgery, Oliver's adorable personality continued to shine as he tackled yet another hurdle — kennel cough. However, with the loving care of a Foster Hero, Oliver's recovery journey took a turn for the better.
With each passing day, Oliver's strength grew. He has since made a full recovery and is acclimating to life on three legs perfectly. Without the pain and discomfort of his previous injuries, Oliver now has the energy to be the playful and social boy he’s been all along.
How to adopt: Interested adopters can meet the optimistic Oliver at AHS’ Papago Park Campus location. His adoption fee is waived and includes his neuter surgery, current vaccinations, a microchip, and a follow-up wellness exam with a VCA Animal Hospital. Visit azhumane.org/adopt for more information.
Emma Helfrich – Arizona Humane Society
Willow: Shy, sweet, and has extra toes
Willow is a 6-year-old affectionate female. Willow was recently returned to 4 Paws as the owners were moving and could not take her. Willow is loving but a little shy at first. She even has a surprise for you with her extra little toes. When she returned to us, the adopters reported she did not get along with their other cat, but she was very friendly to them. Willow has not had any problems with the other cats at 4 Paws. She loves to be petted and given attention. Can you give this sweet lady a forever home? Willow will be a loving companion.
How to adopt: If you are ready to welcome Willow to your loving home, she is available at our Peoria location, 10807 N. 96th Ave. in Peoria, Tuesday to Saturday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Call for more information at 623-773-2246 during those hours. We have more cats and kittens available — the same days and hours — at Youngtown Adoption Center at 11129 W. Michigan Ave., Suite 1 — find out more at 623-876-8778, and lastly, at Surprise PetSmart located at 13764 W. Bell Rd.
— Deb Heise, Sun Cities 4 Paws
Quartz: Catnip and cat naps make her happy
Gorgeous Quartz is a 7-year-old female spayed cat. She is a Lilac Siamese who is a bit shy and nervous in new situations but loving and affectionate after she has time to adjust. She enjoys spending her day playing with catnip and wand toys. She will never decline the offer of a soft squeeze treat. She is also a big fan of being brushed and taking cat naps.
How to adopt: Quartz is waiting for an adoptive home at Friends for Life Animal Rescue's adoption center at 952 W. Melody Lane in Gilbert. Her adoption fee is $150. For more information on Quartz or other cats or dogs looking for homes, contact Friends for Life at 480-497-8296 or visit them online at http://www.azfriends.org.
— Jannelle Cosgriff, Friends for Life
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