Zoey 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.

Zoey: Looking for love

In case it is not abundantly clear, Zoey loves her squeaky toys. In fact, the size of the love she has for toys may even surpass her physical size, which is saying quite a bit. At just 4-year-old, this big baby sure is due for all the love she can get herself.

Zoey, along with another pup in the home, was confiscated by Gilbert Police in November of this year after it was found they were being mistreated. Upon arrival to the Arizona Humane Society, the Great Dane was found to have untreated sores throughout her body including the largest one being on her hip, which was already scabbing over. It was also found that Zoey had severe dental hygiene to the point where some of her teeth were not even visible due to the buildup on them.

After some dental care and medical treatment with AHS, Zoey knows that she is safe and well cared for. Now all she needs is a home that understands just how important her toys are to her…and gives her lots of hugs when she isn’t playing. Zoey also loves to show off that she knows sit but doesn’t tend to want to stay in that position for too long…she has many important things to do of course – the first of which is finding her true furever home!

How to adopt: Interested adopters can meet zesty Zoey at the Arizona Humane Society’s South Mountain location. Her adoption fee includes her spay 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

Rudyard: Looking for a home for the holidays

Definitely feeling the spirit of the season, 3-year-old Rudyard is hoping that when the big day comes he will be in a real forever home.

Another rescue from a cat hoarder, this handsome dark gray fellow is sweet as can be and loves attention. He also loves to play with his kitty toys. Not overly fond of being brushed, he takes great care of his soft short-haired coat. He also doesn’t mind being picked up for a quick hug.

How to adopt: Visit Rudyard at Sun Cities 4 Paws Rescue, 11129 Michigan Avenue, Youngtown. Call 623-876-8778 from 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Tuesdays-Saturdays, also the adoption days. Other locations are 10807 N. 96th Avenue, Peoria; call 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

Cornelius: A distinguished gentleman

A sad situation for any pet, Cornelius was found abandoned and seized by Avondale Police after his owners were evicted from their home. With the continued struggles families face when it comes to housing, economic instability and unforeseen emergencies, there has sadly been an increase of abandonment calls that the Arizona Humane Society has responded to recently.

Cornelius, a 1-year-old domestic shorthair kitty, is a great example of a pet who luckily was found in time and given a second chance once in the care of the Arizona Humane Society. However, he is also a reminder that there are many resources for pet owners when it comes to the difficult decision to give up their pet. From behavior tips to low-cost medical resources, AHS’ Pet Resource Center fields hundreds of thousands of calls a year to try and keep pets in their homes when possible or find alternative placement when needed.

As soft as the finest silk, with eyes that are reminiscent of a full moon, Cornelius is sure to charm his way into the hearts of all those who meet him. After being treated for a little kitty cold, this distinguished gentleman is sure to be a huge cuddle bug and a great lap warmer during the chilly winter months!

How to adopt: Interested adopters can meet cute Cornelius at the Arizona Humane Society’s PetSmart Scottsdale 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

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