Willy 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.

Willy: Looking on the brighter side of life

At just six weeks old when first brought in, adorable Willy is an incredible gray domestic shorthair kitty that was brought to the Arizona Humane Society as a tiny, injured stray. This sweet boy certainly went through a tough time prior to being brought in by a Good Samaritan as his eye was proptosed and actively bleeding.

Upon examination in the shelter’s trauma hospital, it was determined this brave boy was in need of surgery to remove the injured eye, which was too damaged to repair and causing pain. While recovering, sweet Willy received care in AHS’ Kitten Nursery, a lifesaving space for kittens that are eating on their own and undergoing medical treatment or awaiting a Foster Hero home.

As with most kittens, Willy loves to play and is definitely full of energy! His chances of surviving on the streets with such a horrific wound were pretty slim but thankfully he was brought to AHS on time and is now ready for his forever home. A perfect example of a homeless pet given a second chance at a great life, thanks to the staff, volunteers and community that supports the lifesaving work of AHS.

How to adopt: Interested adopters can meet the wonderful Willy at the Arizona Humane Society’s South Mountain location. His adoption fee includes his neuter surgery, current vaccinations, a microchip, and a follow-up wellness exam with a VCA Animal Hospital. Additionally, all pets one year and older have totally free adoption fees through Sunday, June 11, visit azhumane.org/adopt for more information.

— Kelsey Dickerson, Arizona Humane Society

Night Force: Looking for a friend

Night Force was found living at a drive-in movie theatre and obviously existed on something other than spilled popcorn. He got a good checkup by the Sun Cities 4 Paws Rescue vet and was found to be adoption-ready. He has had all of his necessary shots and is, of course, neutered and microchipped.

This handsome 2-year-old black and white kitty with a funny black and pink nose is very sweet and not a bit afraid of humans, not objecting to being picked up and petted. He also enjoys the company of other felines.

How to adopt: He would love to see you at 11129 Michigan Avenue, Youngtown. Call 623-876-8778 Tuesdays-Saturdays from 10 a.m.-3 p.m., which are also adoption days. Other adoptable cats can be seen at the shelter, 10807 N. 96th Ave., Peoria. Call 623-773-2246, same days and hours, and the Surprise PetSmart, 13764 Bell Road.

— Beverly Bormann, Sun Cities 4 Paws

Dayton: The zoomie king

Originally brought to the Arizona Humane Society in May as a sick stray by a Good Samaritan, adorable Dayton was reported to be throwing up with diarrhea. Upon examination in AHS’ trauma hospital, it appeared he was doing well and there were no signs of him being physically ill other than being in need of a dental.

Along with his neuter, the handsome 4-year-young Doberman Pinscher had a few teeth extracted to ensure his mouth was in tip-top shape, as dental health is very important to the overall health of pets. Upon recovering, Dayton found himself quickly adopted but unfortunately returned due to the family not having enough time to commit to him.

This serves as an important reminder to not only do research on a pet that best fits your family but also that AHS’ 100% adoption guarantee allows for returns in any timeframe to allow the shelter to find the perfect fit for every pet. Those who know Dayton best say he loves to run, is a zoomies king and enjoys a nice bone to nibble on from time to time. As smart as he is good-looking, he also knows how to sit but is very motivated to learn more tricks!

How to adopt: Interested adopters can meet the delightful Dayton at the Arizona Humane Society’s South Mountain location. His adoption fee includes his neuter surgery, current vaccinations, a microchip, and a follow-up wellness exam with a VCA Animal Hospital. Additionally, all pets one year and older (including Dayton) have totally free adoption fees through Sunday, June 11, visit azhumane.org/adopt for more information.

— Kelsey Dickerson, Arizona Humane Society

Fonzie: Looking for his person

Fonzie is an 8-year-old Yorkie blend who found himself at a county facility and is now at Friends for Life Animal Rescue where he hopes to find a forever family soon.

Fonzie lost his home due to his owner having severe medical issues and was no longer able to care for him. Fonzie is living in a foster home and doing well. His foster family tells us that Fonzie is a very sweet boy. He wants to be near you at all times and will follow you from room to room.

He loves squeaky toys, belly rubs, and going for walks. He sleeps all night in his bed in the bedroom. He is house-trained. He also did great with grooming during a recent spa day!

Fonzie will do his best as your only canine companion and with kids 16 years and older for his quality of life and will need to be in a home with an enclosed yard as he's not a fan of walks. He can bark at other dogs on walks, so he'd love it if he found a "couch potato" home that will just let him hang out and relax!

How to adopt: If you would like to set up an appointment to meet Fonzie, please email debbie@azfriends.org. Fonzie is neutered, licensed, microchipped, and current on vaccinations. His adoption fee is $50. For more information on Friends for Life or other cats or dogs looking for homes, visit azfriends.org, call 480-497-8296, or visit their adoption center located at 952 W. Melody Ave. in Gilbert.

— Jannelle Cosgriff, Friends for Life

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