These Amazing Pups Would Like To Remind You It's 'Adopt A Shelter Dog Month'
The details of how these 52 dogs came to be available for adoption are varied, inspiring and sometimes tragic.
Sophie, it's thought, was used as a breeding dog, later abandoned in an attic with a litter of pups. Caliber is one of 26 dogs rescued out of a dogfighting ring in Apopka, Florida.
Sweet Kit was found running about as a stray in Washington, D.C. And someone -- we can't imagine who would do this -- left precious little Columbo in a box at a gas station in Indiana.
This is Columbo. He's up for adoption through Casa Del Toro Pit Bull Rescue.
Whatever sad and mysterious circumstances led to their availability, what we know for sure is that each of these doggies is now hoping you'll heed October as "National Adopt a Shelter Dog Month" to make one of them your own.
“Shelters have all types of dogs in need of new homes for a variety of reasons,” says Jessica Vaccaro, adoption manager at New York City's Animal Care & Control. “These dogs deserve a second chance, and the love they’ll give you when you open up your heart and home is immeasurable.”
-
Justice is a 3-year-old boy who is super affectionate and loves playing fetch. Find out more about this goodhearted goofball on his adoption page.
-
Everyone just loves Aiden! This super cute boy with the adorable polka dots, goofy smile and pink nose will just steal your heart. Aiden is so much fun and will make you laugh all the time. He loves to play ball and dribble a soccer ball. He is all about the kisses and cuddling and is super snuggly. He loves to take walks and is great on leash. He is wonderful in the car, crate trained and housebroken. He also knows all of his obedience too! Aiden would make a wonderful companion for someone looking for an only pet not because he doesn't like dogs but because he lived with another dog that wasn't very nice to him. He is fine around other dogs and is very calm around them. No kitties; they are just too fun to chase! Please consider giving Aiden a chance, he is an amazing boy who would make a terrific best friend! For more information, please contact Lilo's Promise Animal Rescue at lilospromise@live.com.
-
Oscar de la Renta is a stylish Staffie mix who originally hails from North Carolina. He's approximately 3-4 years old and weighs around 70 pounds. Oscar's pretty mellow but would enjoy hiking, long walks or just relaxing by your side. He knows basic obedience commands, is crate trained, good on a leash and gets along well with people. He's quite affectionate and just likes to be near you. Oscar has proven himself with all ages of humans and gets along with other large dogs. Oscar is neutered, up to date on vaccinations and microchipped. To foster or adopt, please visit the Brooklyn Badass website for an application.
-
Tyrion Pittister! He is a sweet, snuggly, goofy little boy who was rescued from a dog fighting case, and thanks to the Humane Society of the United States, he made his way to the rescue group Hello Bully. Tyrion bears a lot of scars on his face from his past, but he is in no pain and totally ready to snuggle with a family. Tyrion is about 3-4 years old and still some some spunk so he gets all kinds of fun stuff to do! He loves to chew on nylabones, do enrichment activities, eat pupsicles and, most important, snuggle with all the volunteers. He is puppy-like when excited, and loves to run around in the play yard with tennis balls, and tends to snort extremely adorably. Tyrion's all time favorite thing to do is lounge on the couch or big fluffy dog beds with his humans. Tyrion is working on his polite ways with other canines and furry creatures, he seems to be extremely dog social. If interested please submit your application at www.hellobully.org/adopt or email ashley@hellobully.com for more information on Tyrion Pittister.
-
Pehu is a 3-year-old cuddlebug who loves to snooze on your lap! He also loves to play, is a master of fetch the stuffed squeaky toy and has enough pep in his step to accompany you all your adventures. Penu enjoys the company of other dogs, playing and roughhousing with them until he's had enough and will come to you as his safe zone. He is food and toy motivated, and knows basic obedience commands. And would you get a look at that gorgeous underbite! Find out more from the Kauai Humane Society.
-
At 10 years old, Princess the Shih Tzu needs a comfy place to settle down in. Princess still has plenty of spunk and enjoys dogs her size -- she has also lived with cats! She also loves meeting new people and kids, as long as they are gentle and not too rough with her. The Providence Animal Rescue League thinks this girl would be the perfect addition to a family looking for a constant companion. Please give her a chance today! Find out more on Princess's adoption page.
-
Sophie is a 2 or 3-year-old pit whose time was up at a local shelter. Sophie was thought to have been used as a breeder dog for profit, and was found in the attic of an abandoned home with her litter of puppies. Now that Sophie has learned that there is life outside being used and discarded, she has embraced happiness and fun! She is super athletic and has been spending time at an agility course where she has a chance to prove her innate intelligence. Sophie loves to be goofy and makes her foster family laugh every day. She is terrific with people and children of any age and other dogs that match her energy level. No kitties for Sophie, please! For more information about sweet Sophie, please e-mail her foster mom at HSpeeks@msn.com.
-
Rock is a very happy-go-lucky 2-year-old Dachshund mix who loves to run and play. Despite his little size, Rock loves to sprint at lightning-fast speed and is sure to make you laugh at his goofy antics. Rock is extremely clever and even has a few tricks up his sleeve, like opening doors! He is very affectionate and loves to snuggle with his humans and follow them everywhere. Rock can sometimes be a little unsure around strangers and children, so he needs some time to warm up to his surroundings. He is looking for an experienced, adults-only home. He is also very cat-friendly, so he would do great in a home where he can have a feline friend to play with. If you are interested in adopting, please call PAWS Chicago at 773-938-PAWS, visit www.pawschicago.org, or email adoptions@pawschicago.org.
-
Jesse Pinkman's a loving and dashing pittie mix who's trying to put the past behind him. He's approximately 2 to 3 years old and a solid 60 pounds. Jesse loves to swim, cuddle, hike, play with sticks and do all of the usual dog things. He's also received top notch training and thrives with a strong and confident leader. Jesse's done great with his cat buddy, but we do think he'll do best in a home without other dogs or small children. He's a great, perfectly trained dog for the right pittie lover! Jesse is neutered, up to date on vaccinations and microchipped. Find out more from Brooklyn Badass.
-
Mississippi is such a good pup. This 2-year-old already knows how to sit and walk on a leash. She love snuggles, treats and playing with people. What do you like to do? She is up for anything. Mississippi is so polite she only chews on her own bone and will wait be taken out for a potty break. After chasing balls in the yard or going for long walks in D.C.'s Rock Creek Park, Mississippi dreams about getting to curl up on the couch with a forever family of her very own. E-mail Mississippi’s foster family at bjfitzpatrick@gmail.com to meet her.
-
Cricket is a friendly guy who was rescued out of a dog fighting ring in Florida. He's available for adoption now through the Southampton Animal Shelter, in New York.
-
Grover is an adorable Shih Tzu who is looking for his perfect home. He loves treats, leisurely strolls, head rubs and snoozing on the couch -- though he doesn’t like to be picked up or having his stomach or sides touched. Grover arrived at PAWS Chicago after he was picked up as a stray. Soon after arriving, Grover started having some seizures. With the addition of some medicine, his seizures have been well-controlled. Grover would adore a quiet, adult home with experienced owners -- but preferably a house without stairs. If you are interested in adopting, please call PAWS Chicago at 773-938-PAWS, visit www.pawschicago.org, or email adoptions@pawschicago.org.
-
Adorable. Sweet. Fun. That's Sparky, a chunk of love who's very eager to be your best friend! Sparky walks great on a leash and enjoys car rides. Most of all, Sparky loves to snuggle and spend time with his favorite person... you! Come meet this special boy today! For more information, visit la.bestfriends.org or call (818) 643-3989.
-
Looking to add some fun to your life? Adopt Scruffy! This adorable terrier mix is guaranteed to make you smile with his endearing, affectionate personality. He's great with other little dogs, too, and loves to go on walks. He'll make a fine best friend for any active household! For more information, visit la.bestfriends.org or call (818) 643-3989.
-
This handsome boy came to Animal Care & Control of NYC in mid-October. Sebastian is a friendly pup, only about a year old. Meet him at Animal Care & Control of NYC’s Brooklyn Care Center at 2336 Linden Boulevard if interested, or email adoption@nycacc.org with his A#: A1016924. AC&C adoptions include vaccinations, spay/neuter, a pre-registered microchip, an identification tag, a collar, and a certificate for a free initial exam at a participating veterinarian. For more info, check out http://nycacc.org/Adopt.htm.
-
One look at that sweet little Cinnabar smile and you will fall head over heels in love. Cinnibar is still fairly new to the HSCC and here is what we know so far: Cinnabar is doing very well in playgroups with other dogs and loves everyone that she meets. She is spunky and outgoing and appears to be house trained. Cinnibar is soooo charismatic and she just draws others towards her, both dogs and people. In the short time that she has been with HSCC, we have totally fallen in love with her and we promise that once you meet her, you will, too! Find out more from the Humane Society of Calvert County.
-
Columbo is one of a litter of motherless, bottle-fed puppies, and a precious little black furry baby who is patiently waiting for the right family to come along and choose him! Columbo has learned how to use a doggy door and is very close to being fully house trained. What a smart puppy! Find out more on this little guy's adoption page.
-
Big Z is a big teddy bear. He's easygoing, calm, sweet and very friendly. Find out more from the Kauai Humane Society.
-
Frisby is an adorable 2-year-old "wiggle" (whippet/beagle mix) and is looking for a terrific family. Frisby really loves other dogs and feels happiest when she is around dog friends. She hasn’t met any cats yet, but from what she hears, she thinks they are pretty cool. E-mail Frisby’s foster family at tsrankin7@gmail.com to learn more.
-
Meet Ferdinand, a 5-year-old neutered male who is such a big gentle dog that the Milton Animal League named him after the beloved children's book character Ferdinand, a bull who would rather smell flowers than fight in bullfights. Ferdinand likes to sniff all the interesting smells around the shelter, as well as give big sloppy kisses to volunteers. He loves dogs, cats, humans -- the world! -- and is ready to be living in a home not a shelter. This dog is in at the Milton Animal League in Massachusetts, and can only be adopted to someone who is willing to come meet in person.
-
This approximately 6-year-old gal has a bright and sunny disposition that will keep you warm long after the chilly fall nights give way to winter’s freeze. Visit AC&C's Brooklyn Care Center at 2336 Linden Boulevard if interested, or email adoption@nycacc.org with June’s A#: A0993015. AC&C adoptions include vaccinations, spay/neuter, a pre-registered microchip, an identification tag, a collar, and a certificate for a free initial exam at a participating veterinarian. For more info, check out http://nycacc.org/Adopt.htm.
-
Beautiful Sienna is a 1.5-year-old Rottie/shepherd mixed breed who was found by a Lilo's Promise volunteer running in the woods. Sienna took a little while to learn to trust people but once she did, she now loves with her whole heart! Sienna's favorite activities are car rides for burgers or ice cream, rolling in the grass, hiking and swimming. Sienna is great with other dogs and would love to be adopted into a home with a playmate or two for company. For more information about adopting Sienna, please E-mail Lilo's Promise at lilospromise@live.com.
-
Pic is a 2-year-old Boston terrier who is looking for a home where he will get all the love he deserves. He is a fan of people, toys and playing fetch. He would love to go for a long walk with his new family and explore his new neighborhood. Pic spent some time in foster care where his family described him as sweet and playful. He can’t wait to find a home in the suburbs or somewhere else quiet where he can shower his humans with love. Pic is not a big fan of other animals, so he would love to be the only animal in his future home. If you are interested in adopting, please call PAWS Chicago at 773-938-PAWS, visit www.pawschicago.org, or email adoptions@pawschicago.org.
-
Easygoing Donna makes friends with everyone she meets! Her happy spirit shows in her gentle wagging tail, and Donna also boasts some of the most adorable ears around. Donna's idea of a good time is walking, napping, belly rubs and spending quality time with you! She's a great, low-key girl who would make a super best friend. If you're in the market for a big, sweet dog, put Donna at the top of your list! Best Friends pets are spayed or neutered, microchipped, vaccinated and ready to go to their forever home immediately. Adopters also receive one month of veterinary insurance, a bag of pet food and a customized tag for their new pet. For more information, visit la.bestfriends.org or call (818) 643-3989.
-
Cleo is an incredibly sweet dog with a calm and loving demeanor. She would do well in almost any home where she could be a valued member of the family. Cleo's favorite things include napping, lounging, belly rubs and t-shirts. She also knows how to sit and walks great on a leash. Come meet this squishy faced marshmallow and see for yourself why Cleo is a staff/volunteer favorite! Best Friends pets are spayed or neutered, microchipped, vaccinated and ready to go to their forever home immediately. Adopters also receive one month of veterinary insurance, a bag of pet food and a customized tag for their new pet. For more information, visit la.bestfriends.org or call (818) 643-3989.
-
Here's Mia, a 1.5-year-old sassy lady with personality for days. Mia is smart and eager to learn, so she will need a family that can devote a lot of time to training her properly as she settles in. Mia is part of a special Providence Animal Rescue League's programs that ensures she will go home with some private training to make sure she gets started on the right foot. Find out more on Mia's adoption page.
-
Meet Nero! At only 9 months old, this Belgian Malinois mix is still a huge puppy. He loves fetch, and will play for hours if you let him -- he is also full of kisses. An adult home with a tolerant, teacher dog would be a great match for this handsome boy. Find out more on this big baby's adoption page.
-
Oscar is a laid back, 6-year-old Lhasa Apso who gets along just fins with cats. This guy is available for adoption through the Providence Animal Rescue League.
-
Caliber is an adult dog who was rescued out of a Florida dogfighting ring. He is now available for adoption through the Southampton Animal Shelter in New York -- here's his adoption listing.
-
Nolan is a 2-year-old, happy, active boy who loves to meet new people and go new places. Nolan is housebroken and crate trained. He is happily living with a canine foster sister and loves to play with her. Nolan is very smart and would love a family to nurture his athletic ability and intelligence. To learn more about Nolan, please contact Lilo's Promise Animal Rescue at lilospromise@live.com.
-
Mustang was rescued from a Florida dogfighting bust. He's now available for adoption through Best Friends Animal Society.
-
Meet Rebel, the most handsome dog around! Rebel is about 3 years old and is a laid back and calm kind of guy -- until it's time for frisbee or swimming! When it's time to play, Rebel loves to show his athletic side. Rebs loves hikes with the Lilo's Promise volunteers, followed by snuggles and hugs from his friends. Rebel is good with other dogs and happily meets new people at events. With his sly smile and fun-loving personality, we think Rebel would make any heart throb. For more information about Rebel, please contact Lilo's Promise Animal Rescue at lilospromise@live.com.
-
Sorento was rescued from a Florida dog fighting ring. This medium-sized girl is available for adoption through the Best Friends Animal Society.
-
Rusty Wallace is a 2.5-year-old basset mix, born and raised with his brother Kenny in Georgia before moving north. He's a short and sturdy guy who weighs around 55 pounds and is an absolute riot. Rusty can be wary of strangers at first, but will love you forever once you get to know each other. Rusty is a BIG fan of belly rubs, enjoys playing with other pups outdoors and just generally living life to its fullest. Rusty's crate trained and housebroken, and would love to find a forever family now that he's recovered so beautifully from ACL surgery! Rusty is neutered, up to date on vaccinations and microchipped. To foster or adopt, please visit Brooklyn Badass' website for an application.
-
Kenny Wallace is a 2.5-year-old basset mix, born and raised with his brother Rusty in Georgia before moving north, when their former owner had to give them up. Kenny's a love who must be one of the most grateful-to-be-rescued pups ever known. He can be wary of strangers initially, but does well with a strong, consistent and loving leader. He makes friends for life with any trustworthy human who takes the time. Kenny bonds quickly and deeply and is all about loyalty. He's got crooked lowrider legs and an adorable smile (that runs in the family), and there's no mistaking when he's having a good time. He likes to romp around with canine friends and apparently lived harmoniously with cats down South. But he's more than happy to lie at your feet and have you rub his belly exclusively. Kenny is crate trained and housebroken and looking for a forever home! Kenny is neutered and up to date on vaccinations. To foster or adopt, please visit the Brooklyn Badass website for an application.
-
Black beauty Hedy Lamarr will steal your heart! She's an approximately 2-4 year old Lab mix who weighs around 40-45 pounds. She's housebroken, crate trained, great with other dogs and cat friendly. Hedy's quite shy and frankly scared of lots of things. But she's an absolute goofball when her playful side comes out and has a head tilt to die for. Hedy's going to need a quieter home with a patient but strong adopters who are okay with taking things slowly in order to build her confidence. She's spayed, up to date on vaccinations and microchipped. To foster or adopt, please visit the Brooklyn Badass website for an application.
-
Neal is a fun yet mellow fellow with a gorgeous brindle coat. He's great with other little dogs, walks well on a leash, and enjoys taking long naps and going on car rides. Neal's very favorite thing is to spend time with people. He's a stellar lap dog and would love to snuggle up with you on the couch. Neal is such a unique little guy and wants to be your best friend now! Best Friends pets are spayed or neutered, microchipped, vaccinated and ready to go to their forever home immediately. Adopters also receive one month of veterinary insurance, a bag of pet food and a customized tag for their new pet. For more information, visit la.bestfriends.org or call (818) 643-3989.
-
Kit is a 3-year-old cuddly gal who likes to follow you around and be your wing lady! She'd be an excellent fetch, walking, jogging or hiking buddy but she also likes to wind down curled up next to you or even on your lap if you let her. Kit just loves to hang out with people. She walks well on a leash and has explored all around Washington, D.C. Kit bonds closely with her humans so she will trot nicely near your side. On top of that, she'd be a great companion and play buddy for children. She is also house trained and is so well behaved her fosters leave her loose when they are gone. Kit loves learning new tricks and since she will do anything for a treat and is super smart -- so training is easy; she already knows how to sit, stay and more. Kit’s foster parents recently discovered how some nice classical music makes her really relaxed and sleepy and they think it's pretty cute and funny. Email emmy.phelan@gmail.com to learn more about this sweet girl.
-
Seven-year-old Nyia is the perfect doggy buddy if you don’t really enjoy running, want a furry companion who won’t pull you down the street and are looking for an adult dog who is naturally well behaved and chill in the house. She is a sweet, calm and snuggly gal who enjoys doing just about anything as long as it involves you! Nyia never says no to food, naps, snuggles, play time, walks or the great outdoors. Nyia previously lived with kids and would be a great family dog. She can even go home with other furry friends; kitties don’t bother her at all and she likes chill dogs. Interested in meeting Nyia? Then email her foster at smcupp0902@gmail.com.
-
Samson is a big bundle of love who adores cuddling. At just over a year old, he still has the sweetness and enthusiasm of a puppy. Samson is also a very active pup so he'd thrive in a family that can give him lots of structure and exercise. Samson is friendly with other dogs, and absolutely loves going on runs and frolicking in tall grass. He is house and crate trained and knows basic commands. He could go to a home with kitties with proper intro. Email his foster family at 518fosters@gmail.com to meet him.
-
Dakota is a snuggly 2-year-old who likes to play with other dogs and comfortably cuddles with them as well. She crates calmly, rides well in the car and makes herself at home wherever she goes. Find out more on her adoption page.
-
Bluebelle was found abandoned at a local skating rink. She's about 2 years old and a pup at heart who loves to run and play, and enjoys belly rubs and scratches behind those silly ears. This dog is in at the Milton Animal League in Massachusetts, and can only be adopted to someone who is willing to come meet in person.
-
Hubert is a young guy who was found as a stray. He's adorable, affectionate and playful -- he's also crazy about tennis balls, and has been known to get three in his mouth at once. Hubert has waited well over a year for someone to come in and fall in love with him. Although Hubert is a big fan of cuddling and quiet time with people, sometimes his energy gets too much for him so he needs a loving adult to show him what is expected of him and how to do it. Hubert seems to be invisible to potential adopters. Are you Hubert's person? This dog is in at the Milton Animal League in Massachusetts, and can only be adopted to someone who is willing to come meet in person.
-
Hercules is a 2-year-old neutered boy who was abandoned by his owner with a relative who couldn't keep him. He is a playful, funny, energetic dog who'd enjoy an active family. This dog is in at the Milton Animal League in Massachusetts, and can only be adopted to someone who is willing to come meet in person.
-
Jelly is happy, energetic and loves hiking and playing fetch. She's also great on car rides. Find out more from the Kauai Humane Society.
-
Kitka is a sweetheart of a dog, Fun and playful, this pretty pup is sure to be a great addition to any family. Find out more from the Kauai Humane Society.
-
Moxie is a 5-year-old female Australian cattle dog mix with tons of energy who is loyal, smart and good-hearted. Find out more from the Kauai Humane Society.
-
Meet Bella, an amazing young dog who loves to hang out with people! This 2-year-old cattle dog mix loves taking long walks as well as snuggling on the couch or looking out the window. She is a big fan of people and is always eager to meet new human friends who will play with her. Bella spent some time in a foster home where she said said to be “the absolute sweetest" -- this smarty pants is house trained and already knows basic commands and can’t wait to learn more! Bella weighs about 30 pounds which makes her the perfect size for either an apartment or house! Bella would be delighted to find a loving family to be the center of her attention. She is guaranteed to be a fun workout buddy as well as an affectionate friend. If you are interested in adopting, please call PAWS Chicago at 773-938-PAWS, visit www.pawschicago.org, or email adoptions@pawschicago.org.
-
Persie is a happy-go-lucky, affectionate pup who is very active. Eight months old, she loves toys of all kinds and is always ready to play or go on a very long walk. Persie is smart and enjoys going to her training classes. She loves working for treats and already knows some basic commands. She would be a fantastic companion for an active adults-only household where she can maybe have a jogging partner. If you are interested in adopting, please call PAWS Chicago at 773-938-PAWS, visit www.pawschicago.org, or email adoptions@pawschicago.org.
-
This adorable, approximately 11-month-old pup is friendly and playful, getting along well with both with people and other dogs. And she absolutely loves belly rubs! An Animal Care & Control of NYC staff member notes that Sindy has helped "fearful, less social dogs feel comfortable. She moves seamlessly between interacting socially with dogs and with people, rolling onto her back while engaging in play...." If you're interesting in adopting this sweetheart, visit AC&C's Brooklyn Care Center at 2336 Linden Boulevard, or email adoption@nycacc.org with her A#: A0993015. AC&C adoptions include vaccinations, spay/neuter, a pre-registered microchip, an identification tag, a collar, and a certificate for a free initial exam at a participating veterinarian. For more info, check out http://nycacc.org/Adopt.htm.
-
An Animal Care & Control of NYC volunteer notes that Blake is a “happy-go-lucky boy” and “social butterfly,” and outside in the yard, “he couldn't decide between zoomies, or cuddling in my lap for hugs and kisses.” Email fosters@nycacc.org if interested in adopting this energetic and sweet pup, who’s just about a year and a half old. AC&C adoptions include vaccinations, spay/neuter, a pre-registered microchip, an identification tag, a collar, and a certificate for a free initial exam at a participating veterinarian. For more info, check out http://nycacc.org/Adopt.htm.
-
Chance is a sweet, approximately 2-year-old girl who came to Animal Care & Control of NYC as a stray in need of some TLC. She was treated for an eye condition, has recuperated in foster care, and is ready now for her forever family! Email fosters@nycacc.org if interested in adopting this brindle beauty. AC&C adoptions include vaccinations, spay/neuter, a pre-registered microchip, an identification tag, a collar, and a certificate for a free initial exam at a participating veterinarian. For more info, check out http://nycacc.org/Adopt.htm.
These dogs -- and their photos and descriptions -- come from these shelters and rescue groups, from around the country: The Providence Animal Rescue League; Florida-based Barkies Legacy; Best Friends Animal Society, with adoption centers in Utah and Los Angeles; Brooklyn Badass; the Washington Humane Society in Washington, D.C.; the Humane Society of Calvert County in Maryland; Casa Del Toro Pit Bull Rescue in Indiana; the Milton Animal League in Massachusetts; the Kauai Humane Society in Hawaii; PAWS Chicago; Animal Care and Control of New York City; Lilo's Promise Animal Rescue, based in New Jersey; and Pittsburgh-based Hello Bully.
Have an animal story to share? Get in touch at arin.greenwood@huffingtonpost.com!