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.
Loki: Big guy with an even bigger smile
For any comic book lovers, they are sure to be fans of Loki who is named after the Prince of Asgard — a favorite of many Marvel movie fans. Although he has had a bit of a lifestyle change recently, the five-year-old German Shepherd is hoping he makes a comeback fit for any superhero by finding his perfect home.
Loki was surrendered to the Arizona Humane Society in mid-February after his owner unfortunately was evicted and they had nowhere to take him. The handsome pup was given a check-up in the shelter’s trauma hospital where it was found he is not a fan of having his ears touched but was otherwise healthy and in great shape.
Those who know Loki say he is a sweet and social guy who can be a bit reserved at first but quickly warms up to those who are slow and patient with him. With a smile that can light up the cosmos, the almost 90-pound pup is a gentle soul who leans into petting and never says no to a little snack.
How to adopt: The Arizona Humane Society’s new Papago Park Campus is officially open! Interested adopters can meet the lovable Loki at AHS’ Papago Park Campus location. His adoption fee 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. Additionally, all adult dogs 1 year and older will be just $50 through Sunday, March 10, thanks to Bissell Pet Foundation.
Big Chungus: Snacks and socializing are his favorite things
At a little over 11 pounds, it is clear to see why this adorable kitty is named Big Chungus. Not only is he big in stature but he also has a big heart that is full of love to give to those who are willing to accept it.
Big Chungus has made an incredible recovery since he was picked up as an injured stray by an Arizona Humane Society Emergency Animal Medical Technician™ in January of this year. The three-year-old domestic shorthair tabby was found to have a severe degloving injury of his front paw that had become infected. Treated with medications, honey bandages and surgery to close the wound, this big boy has made a big recovery in his time at the shelter.
Even though the handsome kitty was undergoing treatment for a painful wound, Big Chungus continued to be extremely friendly and always looking for someone to pet him. Extremely social and outgoing, petting time is his favorite part of the day, closely followed by time to eat, play and nap (not necessarily in that order).
How to adopt: The Arizona Humane Society’s new Papago Park Campus is officially open. Interested adopters can meet the bright Big Chungus at AHS’ Papago Park Campus location. His adoption fee 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.
— Kelsey Dickerson, Arizona Humane Society
Stubbles: A silky four-pawed investigator
Stubbles is a 3-year-old female with black, silky, medium-length fur. This soft girl was with a family since she was a kitten but they couldn’t take her with them when they moved. After she was returned to the shelter, Stubbles developed a left eye corneal ulcer. She underwent treatment with the eye specialist and is now cleared. She does have minimal scarring on the eye. She is very investigative and loves standing up on her back legs to see what is happening on the counter or in the fridge. She is okay with other cats in the house; she may just ignore them. She loves being brushed and playing, especially with humans. She is fond of receiving pets and is very lovable.
How to adopt: If you want to give this special girl a loving, forever home, come see Stubbles at our Peoria Shelter at 10807 N. 96th Ave, Peoria Tuesday to Saturday 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. or call during those same days/hours with questions at 623-773-2246. We have more available cats at our Youngtown Adoption Center at 11129 W. Michigan Ave., Suite 1, Tuesday to Saturday, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., or call 623-876-8778 and at the Surprise Petsmart, 13764 Bell Road.
— Deb Heise, Sun Cities 4 Paws
Stewie: Golden-eyed tabby
Stewie is a very handsome, domestic short-haired tabby and white can about 6 years old. He is a kind and gentle soul. His gold-colored eyes tell a thousand stories. Stewie has been neutered, and microchipped.
How to adopt: If you’re interested in Stewie, his adoption fee is $175.00. To find out more about Stewie, other cats and dogs looking for homes, visit AZ Friends for Life Animal Rescue | Pet Rescue & Shelter | Gilbert, AZ. You can also visit Friends for Life Animal Rescue at 295 W. Melody Lane in Gilbert or call 480-497-8296.
— Jannelle Cosgriff, Friends for Life
