Curly 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.

Curly: Looking for a loving home

Curly’s story is a classic “rags to riches” tale. This handsome young Schnauzer mix was living in an overcrowded backyard with 17 other dogs over the summer before the Arizona Humane Society stepped in to help.

When AHS’ Emergency Animal Medical Technicians arrived to rescue him, Curly was understandably nervous and shy. Slowly, they were able to coax Curly and the rest of the dogs out, so they could begin a new life.

At first, Curly was unsure of his new environment, but the staff and volunteers at AHS worked to build Curly’s confidence and bring this sweet, little dog out of his shell. Curly proved to be a quick learner. He has already learned to walk on a leash and "sit" and he’s eager to learn more new tricks — in exchange for some yummy treats of course.

Now, Curly is looking for a home of his very own. Curly would thrive with a family who will give him lots of love and be patient with him as he continues to learn. He is available for adoption at the Arizona Humane Society’s South Mountain Campus.

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 Curly, and schedule an appointment online at azhumane.org/adopt.

— Arizona Humane Society

Mystee: Attention seeker

Mystee is looking quite ready to welcome the fall season and pretty comfy in her wicker bed. This 3-year-old tabby was surrendered to Sun Cities 4 Paws Rescue when her owners moved to a location that did not allow kitties, not an easy task for them.

This cute girl loves lots of attention and enjoys making herself heard in a nice way. Mystee likes to play with feathery toys and doesn’t fuss about being picked up — she also looks forward to gentle brushing.

Mystee doesn’t get along with other cats. Maybe she realizes that means more attention for her.

How to adopt: Visit Mystee at 11129 Michigan Avenue, Youngtown. Call 623-876-8778 after 10 a.m. Tuesdays-Saturdays, also adoption days. Other locations are 10807 N. 96th Avenue, Peoria, 623-773-2246, same hours and days; Surprise PetSmart, 13764 Bell Road; and Lake Pleasant Towne Center PetSmart, 25372 Lake Pleasant Parkway, Peoria.

— Beverly Bormann, Sun Cities 4 Paws

Darcy: A sweet senior

Darcy is a lovable senior dog who has embraced the finer things in life: yummy treats, cuddles on the couch, and belly rubs! She loves belly rubs!

Darcy has overcome a lot since she first arrived at the Arizona Humane Society. This sweet Labrador Retriever mix was rescued by one of AHS' Emergency Animal Medical Technicians after she was found outside in the summer heat with no food or water back in July. Despite everything she has been through, Darcy’s tail has never stopped wagging.

Her sweet disposition has earned her many friends among the staff and volunteers at AHS, but now she is looking for a family of her own. Darcy is very affectionate and loves to soak up all the attention from her human friends. She is very polite and greets new people with a big tail wag.

Darcy also walks well on a leash. At six years old, she does enjoy a leisurely stroll but she is really a couch potato at heart. She would love to find someone who can spoil her with lots of belly rubs and treats! Darcy is anxiously waiting to meet you at AHS’ South Mountain Campus.

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 Darcy, and schedule an appointment online at azhumane.org/adopt.

— Arizona Humane Society

Possum and Boat: Pure entertainment

Meet Possum and Boat! These young boys are full of energy. They can spend hours playing together but once they are done being cute and mischievous they will snuggle up with you and make you feel like the best human in the world.

Possum loves to make biscuits on top of you on his favorite soft blanket. Boat loves to play in the water and can keep you entertained for hours. No need to watch television or play video games when these boys are around. They are pure love and entertainment. They are both about six months old and their adoption fee is $225 each.

How to adopt: Friends for Life Animal Rescue is located at 952 W. Melody Avenue, in Gilbert. At Friends for Life, animals are altered, vaccinated, microchipped, and dewormed. Cats are also tested for FELV/FIV. For more information on Friends for Life, Possum, and Boat, or other cats or dogs looking for homes, visit www.azfriends.org, or call 480-497-8296.

— Jannelle Cosgriff, Friends for Life

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