Pete 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.

Pete: Master of the head tilt

Pete the Poodle loves pets by the pool with poignant people! While you are working to say that 10 times fast, this 6-year-old curly-haired pup is hoping you are also quickly making your way to the Arizona Humane Society to adopt him.

Although he is as pristine as they come now, this master of the head tilt has not had an easy road to AHS’ adoption floor. Pete was rescued as an injured stray on Christmas Eve after he was found with an incredibly painful wound, as his front right paw’s skin had become necrotic due to matted fur so bad that it was cutting off the circulation to his leg. A reminder that grooming is not always just for aesthetic reasons.

With surgery, daily medication, treatments and bandage changes, Pete was finally cleared to head to a Foster Hero home where he continued his recovery for additional wounds, a puppy cold and a dental. During this time, it was discovered that this button-nosed dog prefers to interact with others on his own terms and would do best with a family that can teach him the ropes of indoor living (AKA being pampered). In his time with his adoring foster, Pete has truly grown into a bouncy, wiggly and excitable pup who also loves a nice little snooze in his favorite people’s arms.

How to adopt: Interested adopters can meet with perceptive Pete at the Arizona Humane Society’s South Mountain location. His adoption fee includes his neuter surgery, current vaccinations, a microchip and a free 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.

— Kelsey Dickerson, Arizona Humane Society

Tio: A sweet boy

This is Tio, a beautiful 2-year-old gray-striped tabby. He was one of too many cats for his owner to take care of, so he is now in the care of Sun Cities 4 Paws Rescue and hoping for a new permanent home.

Tio had been awaiting a dental procedure for many months but that has now been taken care of and his mouth is spic and span. He’s a very sweet boy who gets along with other cats.

How to adopt: Visit him at 11129 Michigan Ave., Youngtown. Call 623-876-8778 from 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Tuesdays-Saturdays, also adoption days. Other locations to view adoptable cats are the shelter, 10807 N. 96th Ave., Peoria; call 623-773-2246, same hours and days, and the Surprise PetSmart, 13764 Bell Rd.

— Beverly Bormann, Sun Cities 4 Paws

Charlie: A fluffy boy

Aloof and a bit shy with some of the cutest facial expressions a puppy can perfect, Charlie is certainly taking the whole “being adorable” thing very seriously! At just 8 months old, the German Shepherd pup with teddy bear ears is sure to bring an equal amount of joy and love to the table.

Charlie was originally surrendered to the Arizona Humane Society earlier this month when his previous owner could no longer care for him. Given vaccinations, neutered and other preventative care, the fluffy boy found an adopter rather quickly. Unfortunately, he was recently returned but is crossing his paws that “third time’s the charm” rings true for him this go around.

AHS has a 100% adoption guarantee for pets just like Charlie. Whether it is one day or 10 years, AHS will work with adopters to give resources such as behavior tips, pet-friendly housing options or additional ways to help keep them with their family. If that does not work, AHS would much rather have the pet back in their shelter so the pet can find its true forever home. After all, it is important to ensure that both sides of the leash are taken care of when it comes to making the lifelong commitment of adopting a new furry friend.

How to adopt: Interested adopters can meet with caring Charlie at the Arizona Humane Society’s South Mountain location. His adoption fee includes his neuter surgery, current vaccinations, a microchip and a free 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.

— Kelsey Dickerson, Arizona Humane Society

Cookie: Perfect walking buddy

Cookie is one sweet treat!

This friendly girl is estimated to be around 7 years old. She is a retriever blend and weighs around 49 pounds.

Cookie greets everyone with happiness and a wagging tail! Cookie is living in a volunteer foster home of Friends for Life Animal Rescue and is available every Saturday at their adoption center, and also available for weekday appointments (based on foster parent availability).

Cookie's foster mom says that she is doing great! She has free run of the home without any restrictions.

Cookie is potty trained and will let you know when she needs to go outside. She does good on walks and loves to meet other people. Cookie enjoys taking naps and snuggling with you during the day. She is super sweet and enjoys being petted.

How to adopt: Cookie is spayed, licensed, microchipped, and current on vaccinations. Her adoption fee is $95. Friends for Life Animal Rescue is located at 952 W. Melody Ave., Gilbert. For more information on other dogs or cats looking for homes visit azfriends.org, call 480-497-8296, or visit the adoption center.

— Jannelle Cosgriff, Friends for Life

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