The Independent Southern Utah Adoptable Pets Guide features adoptable pets from various animal shelters throughout southern Utah. Get a new pet today!
Best Friends Animal Sanctuary
Best Friends Animal Sanctuary is located five miles north of Kanab at 5001 Angel Canyon Road. All adoptable cats and dogs are spayed or neutered and up to date on vaccinations. If you have questions about a specific pet or the adoption process, please email adoptions@bestfriends.org. If you’d like to apply to adopt one of these featured pets, click the link to their bio where you will find the adoption survey.
Bermuda
Bermuda may have gotten his name from his favorite pastime of lounging in the sun. He is independent and loves spending time outdoors. He has a lovely poodle-type coat that needs frequent grooming. Born in 2008, Bermuda loves riding on golf carts and in the car. He is shy and fearful with strangers, but once he is comfortable with someone, he is an easygoing lap dog who loves being around his people. Bermuda had a bite incident in his previous home, and for that reason, he will need potential adopters to come to the sanctuary for more than a week to get to know him and to make sure he feels comfortable with them. Bermuda does not do well when being introduced to strangers, and he needs a home that understands this and can accommodate it. Despite his small size, Bermuda would not be an ideal apartment dog. He’ll do best if he has access to a fenced-in yard. He can be a picky eater and has shown aggression toward other dogs in the past, so he cannot live with them. At Dogtown, Bermuda’s caregivers are working on helping Bermuda find ways to feel more comfortable when meeting new people.
Chance
Chance sometimes has a hard time meeting new people and other dogs. He just needs time to build some trust and learn that he is safe. Once that happens, he turns into a loving, cuddly, and playful dog. He loves training and is very motivated. He also loves to wrestle and play with his squeaky toys. Born in 2012, Chance is an active boy who would make a great hiking or jogging partner. If you’re willing to take a chance and get to know this loving boy, he promises to make it worth your while. Sanctuary visit required.
Dukey
Dukey is a very happy boy who enjoys the simple things in life: tennis balls, walks, and attention from people he knows. He does well with people as long as they aren’t too touchy right off the bat and are willing to take the time to earn his trust. Once he’s comfortable with you, Dukey is very sweet and likes belly rubs and leaning into legs. He does well with other dogs at the sanctuary, though he prefers dogs who don’t have a rough-and-tumble play style. Born in 2009, Dukey is an overall mellow boy, though he does love going for walks. He’s earned a reputation as a professional escape artist, with the ability to jump five-foot fences and to open latches. For that reason, he will need a secure environment. Dukey will also guard food and toys. He has some handling sensitivities around his neck and collar, and he gets very nervous and stressed during medical exams. At Dogtown, Dukey has been working on trading food and other items to help with his guarding behavior. His caregivers are also helping him get more comfortable with handling, medical exams, and muzzle training. He’s looking for an understanding person or family who will help him feel safe.
Bruce
Bruce loves people and likes hanging out with them. He’s not all that crazy about other cats. He’s declawed and has no teeth, so he may act tough with other felines as a defense. He has stomatitis and should be eating wet food, but he only likes dry food. He does, however, like to eat chicken. Born in 2009, he had a home with one other cat, but his person took ill. He’d love to have a person of his own again, preferably with no other cats. Bruce is part of our Single Pets program! That means that he is eligible for a free flight home and waived adoption fee! Single pets do best as the only dog or cat in the home.
Camando
Change his future! When he’s not playing with other cats, Camando is keeping a close eye on the birds and lizards outside. Ahh, the elaborate plans that must be running around in his head! This handsome cat is shy around people but will sometimes let you pet and comb his long hair. So if he could find a home with a kind, patient person, he may warm up. In the meantime, he adores other cats and would be a great companion to your cats. Born in 2005, Camando is in good health. But he came from a terrible situation of hoarding and neglect in Pahrump, Nevada. If you’d like to change a deserving cat’s life, Camando is ready to capture your heart!
Dilly
Dilly can go from sweet to sassy in 0.2 seconds, but we love her dearly. Dilly was born with paralyzed back legs and is incontinent, so we express her bladder twice a day. One of her back legs was removed because it was getting caught on the other leg and impeding her ability to get around well. Now, she can race across the cattery as fast as any fully functioning four-legged feline. Just ask her roommates about their narrow escapes when Dilly is on the chase! And this little athlete can quickly pull herself up to the top of the tallest cat tree whenever the urge to climb strikes her little tabby fancy. She can be very chatty, and she enjoys the company of people. She came to Best Friends as a kitten and loves playing with toys. In all the ways that count, Dilly is just like every other cat. All she wants is a chance to pull herself up every day, into a loving forever home. Dilly’s story is featured in our Animals with Special Needs section of the website, which highlights special-needs pets at our Kanab sanctuary.
Providing Animals With Support (PAWS)
PAWS Adoption Center is located at 1125 W 1130 N in St. George. Please submit an application at dixiepaws.org. Call (435) 688-9748 or email officepaws@gmail.com. All pets are microchipped, spayed or neutered, and current on vaccinations. Below are the pets currently available for adoption from the shelter.
Henry
Meet the best dog ever! Henry is a 1-year-old shepherd mix. He gets along with other dogs and people and would be a great addition to an active family. Henry is an all-around great dog whom you have to meet. He is from Texas. His adoption fee is $125.
Honey
Honey is a darling and smart 6-month-old cattle dog mix. She is very loving and playful and will be a medium-size dog when fully grown. Her adoption fee is $200.
Sophia
Sophia is a 2-year-old tabby. This sweet girl does best with other cats in her presence. All the boys have eyes for this doll. She loves to play, and once she claims you as her human, you’re all hers. Her big green eyes are stunning. This girl deserves her own home and family. Stop in and meet Sophia and see for yourself how special she is. Her adoption fee is $65.
Wilma
Wilma is a 1½-year-old tabby who is playful, will play dress up if you want her to, loves toys and games, and is very social. Give her a lap and she will cuddle up on it. She is easygoing and gets along with other cats. Wilma also likes to run on the cat wheel. She is amazing! Her adoption fee is $65.
Lizzy
Lizzy is a darling. Give her a cuddle and you will win her over. She prefers to be the one and only cat. Her adoption fee is $65.
The City of Mesquite Animal Shelter
The City of Mesquite Animal Shelter is located at 795 Hardy Way and is open for adoptions Mondays through Saturdays from 11 a.m. until 1 p.m. and Sundays from 1 to 3 p.m. Please call (702) 346-7415 during these hours to speak to the front desk, or visit mesquiteanimalshelter.petfinder.com. Animal Control may be reached by phone or voicemail at (702) 346-5268. Adoption fees include spaying or neutering and a one-year rabies shot. Mesquite residents only receive one-year city pet licenses.
Ottis
Otis was found as a stray. He enjoys the wading pool, can fetch toys, loves having his belly rubbed, and is doing great with his leash training. He knows “sit” and “kennel.” He does not show any interest in the other shelter dogs. Otis needs to get to know you and will bark at new people when in his cage. His adoption fee is $60.
Murphy
Murphy was found as a stray. It is obvious that he was someone’s cat as he is super friendly, follows you about the room, comes when called, and loves attention and being with people. He is quite talkative. He was well cared for and has a shiny, smooth coat. He is a large cat. His adoption fee is $40.
Mia
Mia’s owner moved and could not take her with him. She is 7 years young and declawed. Mia is in need of a diet and exercise plan. She is shy due to the change in her living arrangements, but she is calm and easily handled. She would make a good companion for someone wanting a couch potato to keep them company. Her adoption fee is $40.
Paris
Paris came to the shelter when her owner could no longer keep her and brought her to the shelter. She is approximately 4–5 years old. Paris never stops purring, loves to be petted, and is easily handled. She loves looking out the windows and napping where she can keep an eye on everyone. While at the shelter, it was discovered that Paris has a chronic medical condition. She is on a special diet and will need to be on this diet for the rest of her life. If you have room in your heart and home for this special kitty, please visit the shelter and meet this lovely lady. Her adoption fee is $40.
RSQ DOGS+
RSQ DOGS+ is southern Utah’s newest nonprofit animal rescue group. It is an all-volunteer group dedicated to saving the lives of animals in underserved, rural areas of Washington County. All of the animals in its care are fully vetted, including spay/neuter, vaccinations, microchip, and any medical care they may need. Please contact RSQ DOGS+ for more information at (800) 897-1136 or rsqdogsutah@gmail.com, or visit rsqdogsutah.org.
Diego
My name is Diego! I’m an 8-month-old Chihuahua, and I came from California! I like other dogs, and I haven’t had any problems with cats, but my real love is people; my friends at RSQ Dogs say I’m like a shadow: Wherever you go, I want to follow. Can I be your shadow?
Hudson
Hudson is a gorgeous 8-month-old blonde husky mix without a tail. He seems so gentle and loving. He loves going for walks and is good with other dogs. Hudson would do well with an active family. Such a beautiful boy deserves a loving forever home. Is it yours?
Boomer
Boomer is a fully grown male border collie/Australian shepherd mix and is approximately four years old. He knows some tricks like “sit” and “come.” He is fine with other dogs but gets nervous if the other dogs start barking. He likes people to be around but really doesn’t pay too much attention. He’s pretty calm doing his own thing. He would need a fully fenced yard to run around in and would love a family to take him on adventures. Do you want to be his forever family?
Hartley
Hartley is a sweet female senior. She loves canned food and sleeping. Hartley is an older gal who is looking for someone to love her in her golden years. Her adoption fee has been generously covered by an anonymous donor for the perfect family.
Peaches and Georgia
This darling set of bonded kittens are almost ready for adoption together. They will still need to be spayed, but we are taking applications now, and you could possibly even “foster to adopt” until they are completely ready to be adopted. They are as cute as can be, so are you interested in these babies?
Hurricane City Animal Shelter
Hurricane City Animal Shelter is located at 2084 S 700 W in Hurricane. Its hours are 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Mondays through Fridays and 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Saturdays. The shelter is closed on Sundays and holidays. They work very hard to keep their facility clean and their adoptable animals comfortable during their stay with them. Adoption fees are $20 for cats and $30 for dogs. The adoption fee includes a goodie bag and a certificate for a free health exam with either one of the veterinarians in Hurricane. All pets must be sterilized prior to being adopted.
Rowdy Patch
Rowdy Patch arrived at the shelter as a stray, so his history is a mystery to them. This is one sweet, good looking dog! They think Rowdy Patch is a mix of shepherd and Rottweiler topped off with a whole lotta playfulness! He looks to be about 6 months old and is just a joy to be around. Rowdy Patch just loves to play fetch. He minds very well and just wants to please. He also comes when he is called and knows a few basic commands such as “sit” and “down.” He is going to be a large dog who will need plenty of exercise to keep him healthy and happy. That will be easy to do; just throw a ball for Rowdy Patch and he is happy as can be! Although they have not officially tested Rowdy Patch with other dogs, he doesn’t seem to mind them. They don’t know how he is with cats. Rowdy Patch seems to love everyone he meets. He is an easygoing, good boy looking for a great home where he will be loved and cherished always. If you have been looking for a super-sweet, extra smart, and exceptionally lovable dog, get in to the shelter to meet Rowdy Patch today!
Vern
Sweet Vern is a beautiful, blue-eyed Siamese mix who is looking for his fur-ever home where he will truly be loved and cherished always. Vern arrived at the shelter because his owners were moving and did not want to take him with them. Vern is about 8 years old and is neutered. This gorgeous kitty doesn’t really care for kids, so Vern is looking for a home with adults only or older kids who will be gentle and kind. They don’t know how Vern is with dogs or other cats. He seems to be a bit on the quiet and shy side, so no doubt he would love a calm home with plenty of spots of sunshine that he can nap in. Vern has gorgeous blue eyes and a very pretty pattern on his soft fur. Don’t miss out on the chance to meet this gentle kitty.
Punkin
Handsome Punkin is looking for his fur-ever home where he will be a loved and cherished family member always! Just look at him! His tabby fur is a light tan color. His soulful eyes are a deep gold. It’s safe to say they are smitten with this guy. Punkin is a cat who knows what he wants and isn’t afraid to go get it. He loves to be petted, has a blast playing with interactive toys, and likes to explore. When Punkin needs some “me time,” that needs to be respected. With that said, he would probably be best in a home with older kids who are kind and gentle. This delightful chap uses his litterbox like a champ. Punkin is an all-around awesome kitty!
Heath
Heath is one of the coolest kitties ever! He is so chill and just rolls with whatever. Super friendly and relaxed, Heath would make a great feline companion for anyone who appreciates how wonderful having a cat in the home can be! Heath is prone to have crystals in his urine, but this is easy to control with a special diet. This fantastic feline gets along great with kids, dogs, and other cats! Heath just loves to be petted. He also enjoys playing and batting toys around. But mostly, he just likes to be with his people. Come on into the shelter to meet this exceptionally cool cat.
Because Animals Matter
Because Animals Matter is dedicated to reducing animal abuse and neglect through education. It offers fully vaccinated, spayed or neutered, and microchipped animals for adoption through a network of foster homes and the Because Animals Matter Center, a transition facility. It also welcomes volunteers for a variety of activities and needs foster families for animals awaiting their forever homes. Please contact Because Animals Matter at (435) 773-5209 or visit becauseanimalsmatter.com for more information.
Winnie
Winnie is a very sweet, low-key little dog. She gets along great with other dogs and older kids. She is very loyal and loves to be right by your side at all times. She is a great buddy for someone looking for a constant companion. Winnie is house trained and does well in a kennel at night. Winnie has lupus, and her medication (25mg Cyclosporine) has to be given 1 hour before food or 2 hours after. It costs about $45 a month. Call Michelle at (435) 703-3926 for more information on Winnie. Her adoption fee is $125.
Walt
Walt is approximately 8 years old. He would like nothing better than to go on a walk with you, go for a run in the desert, be your companion, and then lay down at your feet at the end of the day (or in your lap … he likes laps a lot). Older children would be best for him, and he would also be a great pet for an older couple. Walt is well behaved in a house, and although he is crate trained, he prefers to live in close proximity with his humans. Walt’s foster mom says he is a great dog and he deserves a home of his own. Walt’s only problem is that nobody wants to adopt him because he has stage 1 kidney failure and requires a special diet. The vet says he could live a couple of years, or more, or less. There’s just no telling, but if you’ve seen the videos of him running in the desert, you would know he’s not ready to cash it in yet. Everyone who knows Walt believes he deserves a family. Are you a family that is willing to give love and be loved, even if it is time-limited? If so, call Corinne at (435) 760-3414 and set up a time to meet him. You will fall in love with him … everyone does!
Pebbles
Pebbles is a sweet little dog with a lot of love to give. A small dog with a big personality, Pebbles is about 4 years old but hasn’t had much contact with people so is quite cautious when meeting new people and takes some time to get comfortable. However, once he gets to know you, he is warm and loving with his favorite place being in the arms of his person. Very playful with other small dogs, he walks well on a leash while displaying typical “small dog bark bigger than his bite” attitude. To welcome Pebbles into your family, call Phyllis at (435) 862-2207. His adoption fee is $125.
