Avanna 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.
Mrs. Floofa: A couch potato
The aptly-named Mrs. Floofa, an absolutely gorgeous eight-years-young Chow Chow, loves showing off her luxurious, fluffy coat these days. This lovely girl has made an incredible transformation in the short time she has been at the Arizona Humane Society in early December of last year.
Alerted to two dogs who were left unattended after their owner, unfortunately, passed away, AHS Emergency Animal Medical Technicians found her living in unsafe conditions. Additionally, Mrs. Floofa’s fur was badly matted and dirty. Once she was safely in our care, Mrs. Floofa was treated in AHS' Second Chance Animal Trauma Hospital and given lots of TLC with a full makeover by the shelter’s wonderful groomers.
Now that she looks as good as she feels, she is working to sniff out a new home for herself with a loving family. Mrs. Floofa moves a bit slower than some of the younger pups but walks well on a leash and loves getting pets from her people. If looking for a "couch potato" to cuddle with, this is the girl for you as she is a gentle lady who loves to take things slowly and would also benefit from meeting the whole family to ensure a good fit.
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 the marvelous Mrs. Floofa, and schedule an appointment online at azhumane.org/adopt.
— Kelsey Dickerson, Arizona Humane Society
Avanna: An adorable tabby who loves head rubs
This cute tabby seems to be leaning in for a kiss, and it wouldn’t be far from wrong as she is VERY affectionate, according to her caregivers. Avanna was a stray, as noted by her slightly tipped left ear, indicating that she had been spayed and then released and has found her way to Sun Cities 4 Paws Rescue. Not quite 2 years old, she likes nothing better than to get lots of loving attention in the form of head rubs, brushing, picking up and cuddling, and a great home for her would be one that is quiet and without other cats. Avanna likes to settle down in high places and also likes to snuggle under blankets. No doubt she will be close at hand at all times.
How to adopt: Visit her at 11129 Michigan Ave., Youngtown. Adoptions are Tuesdays-Saturdays from 10-3 p.m.; call 623-876-8778 at those times. Also visit the Surprise PetSmart, 13764 Bell Road, and Lake Pleasant Towne Center PetSmart, 25372 Lake Pleasant Parkway, Peoria, for more adoptable cats.
— Beverly Bormann, Sun Cities 4 Paws
Beatrix: Fun-loving, sweet cat
As sassy as she is beautiful, Beatrix definitely has a lot to say and is not afraid to say it. The lovely four-year-old diluted tortoiseshell shorthair kitty loves to chirp and meow at her people whenever she is in the mood for attention or just wants to let you know she is there.
Brought to the Arizona Humane Society in November 2021 by a Good Samaritan, she was found as a stray living at an elementary school with what appeared to be a broken leg. Upon evaluation in AHS’ Second Chance Animal Trauma Hospital, it was determined that Beatrix has a malformation of her front limb due to a previous fracture that has healed and does not cause her any pain – she even uses it to ambulate on but it will need to be kept an eye on with her future vet.
Beatrix can be a bit of a handful at times but she promises that she is a fun-loving and sweet girl who just needs a cat-savvy person that understands her. Those who know her say she is outgoing and sweet but also loves to have her independence. An enjoyer of making biscuits, lounging on cat trees and playing with toys, Beatrix is an all-around delight who is sure to bring lots of joy to her future forever home.
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 bright-eyed Beatrix, and schedule an appointment online at azhumane.org/adopt.
— Kelsey Dickerson, Arizona Humane Society
Ruff Lauren: An active puppy
Ruff Lauren is a 2-year-old Lab blend, weighing about 50 pounds, and has a typical energy level for a 2-year-old dog! He was adopted at 6 months old but returned recently due to incompatibility with the young children in the home, so he'll do best in a home with older children (age 6+) as he might knock someone down if he's not paying attention!
Ruff is very affectionate and likes to give kisses in exchange for belly rubs. He loves to play fetch, and roll in the grass. He gets very excited to go for a walk, and the volunteers have been working with him on leash manners.
Ruff knows basic commands, such as "shake," "sit," and "stay." He is a very smart boy and a quick learner!
How to adopt: Ruff is living at Friends for Life's adoption center located at 952 W. Melody Avenue in Gilbert, and is ready to go home! Ruff Lauren is neutered, licensed, microchipped and vaccinated. His adoption fee is $250. If you are interested in meeting Ruff Lauren, please call 480-497-8296, email FFLdogs@azfriends.org, or visit online at azfriends.org for hours of operation. If Ruff is adopted by the time you inquire, there are many other dogs, and cats too, waiting for homes.
— Jannelle Cosgriff, Friends for Life
This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: Adopt a pet: Avanna and more pets up for adoption in Phoenix-area shelters
