Wilma and more pets up for adoption in Phoenix-area shelters this week
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.
Wilma: Wants to be the center of attention
For anyone who is a fan of the Flintstones, you will absolutely love this modern kitty straight from the classic Stone Age cartoon. Wilma is fun and sassy 3-year-old brown shorthair tabby who came to the Arizona Humane Society in March after she was abandoned in an apartment.
Unfortunately, AHS Cruelty Investigators and Emergency Animal Medical Technicians respond to situations like this much too often. This is a stark reminder that no pet owner should resort to abandoning their pet, since AHS and other animal welfare organizations have resources to help both pet and pet owners alike.
Once in the shelter’s care, she was treated for some stomach issues but has made a quick recovery and is now one of AHS’ longest resident kitties after being at the shelter for over a month. Wilma is a very independent girl who loves to be the center of attention and is as sweet as they come – especially when neck scratches are involved. Although she loves attention, this tiger-esque mama prefers all four of her feet stay on the ground as she would prefer not to be picked up.
How to adopt: The Arizona Humane Society’s Virtual Matchmaking Adoptions by appointment is available to place pets with their forever families. Interested adopters can view available pets, like wily Wilma, and schedule an appointment online at azhumane.org/adopt. Additionally, Wilma’s adoption fee is waived thanks to a generous supporter.
— Kelsey Dickerson, Arizona Humane Society
Dingo Starr: Stuffed animal enjoyer
Dingo Starr is a 4-year-old, 11-12 pound Chihuahua blend that is looking for a forever family. He was returned recently when his adopter found herself with some medical needs and could no longer keep up with this little guy.
He answers to Jackson, and he has done great with children of various ages and has lived with another dog previously and he is very playful with other dogs.
Dingo Starr is crate trained and dog door trained, so he is "move-in ready!"
His favorite pastime involves his love of stuffed toys. He loves to sleep in his dog bed at night. Dingo Starr does great with grooming and getting his "pawdicures"!
How to adopt: He is residing at Friends for Life's adoption center located at 952 W. Melody Avenue in Gilbert and can’t wait to find his forever home. Dingo Starr is neutered, licensed, vaccinated, and microchipped, and his adoption fee is $325. For more information on Dingo Starr please contact Friends for Life at 480-497-8296, e-mail FFLdogs@azfriends.org, or visit http://www.azfriends.org.
— Jannelle Cosgriff, Friends for Life
Inari: Unique in her own way
With all breeds, shapes, sizes and personalities that pets exhibit, they are each unique in their own ways. Inari’s bright white fur and coal black nose definitely give her a gorgeous contrast that is only heightened by her amber eyes.
Inari found herself wandering the streets of Phoenix as an injured stray in early March with a laceration on her side and her body riddled with smaller abrasions. Most likely a victim of being hit by a car, this 1-year-young Alaskan Husky was rescued by AHS Emergency Animal Medical Technicians and transferred to the shelter’s animal trauma hospital.
After a few weeks of medical care, it was found that Inari may not have had a life where she learned “normal” dog behaviors such as how to use a leash. Thankfully, AHS’ amazing Behavior Team has been committed to helping her through the process and has been helping her learn each day through positive reinforcement. Though she has made great strides, this smart and energetic pup would benefit from a home equally committed to learning and teaching each other as a family. Plus, Inari loves treats and will do about anything for chicken meatballs!
How to adopt: The Arizona Humane Society’s Virtual Matchmaking Adoptions by appointment is available to place pets with their forever families. Interested adopters can view available pets, like imaginative Inari, and schedule an appointment online at azhumane.org/adopt.
— Kelsey Dickerson, Arizona Humane Society
Saffron: Friendly tabby
Orange tabbies don’t seem to be in need of new homes very often, so no doubt this 5-year-old cutie with the green eyes will be snapped up.
Saffron was recently brought to Sun Cities 4 Paws Rescue when her owner passed away, and it is obvious that she had a loving home. She is a very sweet girl who loves lots of attention, likes to be picked up and enjoys a good brushing. She does get along with other cats as well. It seems she passes all of the best feline tests with flying colors!
How to adopt: Visit Saffron at 11129 Michigan Avenue, Youngtown. Adoptions are Tuesdays-Saturdays, 10 a.m.-3 p.m.; call 623-876-8778 during those times. Other adoption sites are the shelter, 10807 N. 96th Avenue, Peoria, same days and hours as Youngtown; Surprise PetSmart, 13764 Bell Road; and Lake Pleasant Towne Center PetSmart, 25372 Lake Pleasant Parkway, Peoria.
— Beverly Bormann, Sun City 4 Paws
This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: Adopt a pet: Wilma and more pets up for adoption in Phoenix-area shelters