If you’re new to the area, and are unsure of where to find your next pet, or you are just interested in finding a new furry friend, here are a few places you may want to check out:
1) One of the largest sources of adoptable animals here in the Valley of the Sun can be found at one of the two locations operated by Maricopa County Animal Care & Control. All adoptable animals will be spayed/neutered before being eligible for adoption, and will also receive a rabies vaccination and dog license tag as part of their adoption fee (cats are exempt from both in Maricopa County). The cost to adopt dogs and cats is among the lowest in the Valley, and ranges from $0 (for cats who have been at the facility for 30 days or more) to $100 (for dogs under 6 months old).
2) Another, less-overwhelming source of pet adoption to consider may be one of the six adoption locations run by the Arizona Humane Society. Their website has an easily searchable list of adoptable animals, complete with photos and details about each animal. Arizona Humane Society features dogs, cats and various other pets such as rabbits, hamsters and guinea pigs. They also feature a variable adoption pricing structure, which helps to finance medical care or other services needed by other animals in their care.
3) If you’re looking for a smaller dog for your condo or patio home, check out the Arizona Small Dog Rescue. While specializing in the adoption of small breed dogs, this organization also hosts some cats and a few larger breed canines. This non-profit, no-kill shelter rescues most of its animals from kill shelters around the Valley, but also accepts strays and owner surrendered animals. This rescue organization spays and neuters, vaccinates, microchips and evaluates and socializes all of its animals before making them available for adoption. Arizona Small Dog Rescue permits you to bring in your current animal to visit with potential adoptees, to see if they get along.
4) Another option may be searching for adoptable pets on websites such as Petfinder.com which compiles an extensive list including photographs and pertinent details of the many animals available for adoption here in the Valley of the Sun. The search parameters will let you narrow down by size, breed, age and desired characteristics, which will make your search more focused.