Austin 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.

Austin: Provides their own socks

After originally being rescued by a good samaritan as an injured stray in August and with nowhere else to turn, Austin found his way to the Arizona Humane Society. He received medical attention from AHS’ Trauma Hospital and underwent surgery to amputate part of his tail. In addition to this medical care, Austin was also treated for a painful ear infection. After he healed and after months of searching for a forever home, Austin was adopted but unfortunately recently returned due to the other pet in the home not wanting to share their space.

Austin is a 4-year-old American Bulldog mix who has been on the search for his family for much too long. The lively pup loves nothing more than playing with his toys and making his humans laugh with his silly antics. According to this “sock-wearing” cutie, he is not just any ordinary dog, as he promises to keep you entertained and in good spirits all day long.

His shelter friends say he is a sweet and friendly boy who is perfect in every way. Wanting all the kisses and hugs from his humans, Austin would be best in a cat and critter-free home, as well as meeting any other dogs in the family to ensure their personalities and energy levels are the perfect fit!

How to adopt: Interested adopters can meet the adorable Austin at the Arizona Humane Society’s South Mountain location. His adoption fee is waived to help him find his forever home and includes his neuter surgery, current vaccinations, a microchip, and a follow-up wellness exam with a VCA Animal Hospital. Visit azhumane.org/adopt to choose one of three convenient ways to adopt based on your schedule.

— Erin Jackson, Arizona Humane Society

Black Jasper: Ready to snuggle

Black Jasper is a mellow fellow, a very sweet boy who loves people but not animals.

This 6-year-old should be the only pet in any new home.

Although he appears to be only half there, the other half is guaranteed to be included when he is adopted! Jasper likes to snuggle under a coverlet when napping and also likes to lap sit.

Bonus: His front claws are declawed.

How to adopt: He would love to have a visit from you at Sun Cities 4 Paws Rescue, 11129 Michigan Ave., Youngtown. Call 623-876-8778 Tuesdays-Saturdays, 10 a.m.-3 p.m., also adoption days. Don’t forget to drop into the thrift store right next door — you won’t be sorry. Other adoptable cats are at the shelter, 10807 N. 96th Ave., Peoria. Call 623-773-2246, same days and hours; also visit the Surprise PetSmart, 13764 Bell Rd.

— Beverly Bormann, Sun Cities 4 Paws

Blu: Looking for a new best friend

Blu is an outgoing and friendly pup who was adopted from the Arizona Humane Society alongside her sibling Red all the way back in 2019. While they enjoyed playing with each other, their previous family was unfortunately unable to continue caring for them when some medical issues arose and recently had to surrender them back to AHS. But, despite finding her way back to the shelter, Blu is excited to discover another loving family that will provide her with the attention and care she needs to thrive.

This beautiful 10-year-old Staffordshire Bull Terrier mix is now on the hunt for her forever home, again! Blu is a loveable pup who is sure to steal your heart with her amazing personality and wagging tail. She is a true “blu” companion who will be by your side through thick and thin.

Blu is a seasoned pro when it comes to making friends, but she will need to meet the other dogs in her new home before she moves in to ensure it is the perfect fit. Ready ready to show you all the love she has to give, Blu knows the happy ending she deserves is just around the corner!

How to adopt: Interested adopters can meet the phenomenal Blu at the Arizona Humane Society’s South Mountain location. Her adoption fee is waived to help her find her perfect forever home and includes her spay surgery, current vaccinations, a microchip and a follow-up wellness exam with a VCA Animal Hospital. Visit azhumane.org/adopt to choose one of three convenient ways to adopt based on your schedule.

— Erin Jackson, Arizona Humane Society

Casanova: Will listen for food

Casanova is a 5-year-old, 13-pound Chihuahua that made his way to Friends for Life Animal Rescue by way of a county facility.

Casanova has won over the hearts of his human kennel buddies. They tell us he is a friendly, playful, and wiggly dog with a tail that never stops wagging! Casanova likes to play fetch, and he will eventually return the ball (work in progress)! He is treat-motivated, so it will be easy to work with him and teach him new commands.

Casanova is a sweet boy who would do best as your only canine companion.

How to adopt: Cassanova is currently residing in a foster home. If you would like to meet him, please fill out a consultation form found at www.azfriends.org, visit the adoption center, or call 480-497-8296! Casanova will also be at the adoption center on Saturdays until adopted Casanova is neutered, licensed, microchipped, and current on vaccinations and his adoption fee is $150. Friends for Life Animal Rescue is located at 952 W. Melody Avenue in Gilbert.

— Jannelle Cosgriff, Friends for Life

This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: Adopt a pet: Austin and more pets up for adoption in Phoenix-area shelters