ST. GEORGE, UT – May 24, 2025. The Independent’s Southern Utah, Pet Adoption Guide, features pet adoption options from various animal shelters throughout southern Utah. Adopt your new best friend 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 are up-to-date on vaccinations. If you have questions about a specific pet or the adoption process, please email adoptions@bestfriends.org, or call (435) 688-2327. If you’d like to apply to adopt one of these featured pets, search their name here then click the orange adopt link and fill out the form. Check out our current and ongoing adoption specials here.
Cher
Cher is a smart, energetic girl with the cutest giant ears you’ve ever seen! She loves making doggy friends, playing all day, and showing off her quick learning skills. Fun-loving and full of life, she’s always ready for an adventure — or a cuddle.
Looking for a sweet, spunky companion? Cher’s your girl!
Crouton
Meet Crouton! This cheerful and playful pup is full of love and ready to find his forever home. Crouton is happiest when he’s playing with other dogs, chasing toys, or enjoying a good romp in the backyard. With his sweet nature and lovable spirit, he’s sure to win your heart in no time. Crouton is ready to go home today- come meet him and see if he’s the perfect fit for your family!! This cheerful and playful pup is full of love and ready to find his forever home.
Crouton is happiest when he’s playing with other dogs, chasing toys, or enjoying a good romp in the backyard. With his sweet nature and lovable spirit, he’s sure to win your heart in no time. Crouton is ready to go home today- come meet him and see if he’s the perfect fit for your family!
Hummus
Meet Hummus – the Shepherd/Cattle Dog who’s an amazing gentleman that never meets a stranger!
This good boy’s mission in life is to snuggle. But don’t let that fool you, he’s also a very active adventure buddy ready for the next hike.
This adolescent boy is ready to join your family and pack immediately. What are you waiting for?
Velvet
Velvet is as soft as her name suggests. She’s a petite long-haired beauty with a coat that shimmers. Beneath her delicate frame lies a heart full of love, waiting for the right person to unlock her trust and show her the warmth of a forever home.
Velvet is a thoughtful observer, taking her time to get to know her surroundings and the people in them. But once she decides you’re her person, expect a lifetime of devoted companionship—gentle head nudges, slow blinks of affection, and the sweetest, most soothing purrs.
Velvet is looking for someone who understands that true love is built on patience. If you’re willing to let her blossom at her own pace, she will reward you with a love so deep and unconditional, it will feel like fate brought you together. Could that someone be you?
Tattoo
Meet Tattoo! This fearless little lady may have a nub tail, but she’s got *big* personality! Tattoo is the ultimate social butterfly—she loves meeting new people, soaking up attention, and curling up on any available lap. Wand toys? Her favorite. Snuggles? Absolutely. She’s also bonded with her best buddy Horton, and together they’re the purrfect pair of fun and affection.
Tattoo’s brave, loving, and ready to charm her way into your heart!
Horton
Say hello to Horton! This sweet guy might start off a little shy, but once he’s comfy, his loving, social side shines bright! Horton is a gentle soul who adores wand toy play sessions and will serenade you with meows when he’s ready for some attention.
Horton is bonded with his brave and bubbly bestie, Tattoo, and together they make a dynamic duo of love and fun. With a little patience and a lot of heart, Horton will be your loyal cuddle buddy for life!
RSQ
RSQ is a non-profit animal rescue in St. George, Utah. Our mission is to be a voice for the voiceless, bettering the lives of animals in Utah’s rural communities. All the animals in our care are fully vetted including spay/neuter, vaccinations, microchipped, and any medical care they may need before adoption. We are open for walk-in visitors on Thursdays, from 4:30-6:30 p.m. For more information on RSQ and our adoptable animals, please contact RSQ at (800) 897-1136 or visit rsqutah.org.
Gerald
Hey there! If you’re looking for a hilarious, furry friend, then you need to meet Gerald! He’s a young male pup with a face that will make you go “aww” and he’s full of energy and love. Gerald is an affectionate little guy, but he can be a bit mischievous and playful, so he’s looking for a family who can keep up with his active lifestyle. Gerald loves to play, but he also loves nothing more than curling up on the couch for a good snooze. If you’re looking for a furry friend to join you on adventures then Gerald is the one for you! Come and meet the little guy – you’re sure to fall in love!
Wesley
Meet Wesley – an adorable young fellow brimming with love and laughter! He’s a jolly fellow with lots of love to give, and he’s searching for a special family to call his own. This affectionate pooch is sure to make you smile each and every day.
While we don’t know if Wesley is a charmer with a penchant for making everyone he meets fall in love with him. He’s a bit of a goofball and loves to make his humans laugh. Wesley is looking for experienced dog owners to give him the love and care he needs, so if you think your heart is big enough for this sweet pup, Wesley would love to meet you!
Jolene
Meet Jolene, a fluffy, sassy calico queen who knows exactly what she wants. She’s a vocal charmer who won’t let you forget she’s in charge. Don’t be fooled by her dignified air; under that poised exterior, Jolene is a cuddle monster who thrives on attention. If you’re looking for a cat with a big personality, a demanding purr, and a healthy dose of self-respect, Jolene is the one for you.
This independent beauty doesn’t just want affection; she demands it. Whether it’s rubbing up against your legs or calling out to you with a commanding meow, Jolene knows how to make herself heard. And once she’s in your lap? You’re hers, and you’ll feel like the luckiest person in the world.
But beware—Jolene is ready to steal hearts, and not just yours! She has that special charm that could even make your partner swoon (don’t say we didn’t warn you).
Cameron
This handsome young tabby faced challenges early in life—he was born with a medical condition that caused his fur to grow inward around his eyes, leading to pain and partial blindness. But thanks to the amazing care he has received at RSQ Cameron has undergone corrective surgery and is healing beautifully!
Because of his limited vision, Cameron may be a little nervous when meeting new people or adjusting to new sounds, but once he realizes he’s safe, his curiosity takes over! He’s always eager to explore, investigate, and—true to his mischievous nature—find fun in the most unexpected places.
Cameron loves to play and pounce, making him the perfect companion for an interactive pet parent. Despite his rough start, he is incredibly gentle with other cats and would thrive in a home with a feline friend. He’s a playful spirit who also appreciates the occasional cozy cuddle session once he’s comfortable.
If you’re looking for a resilient, adventurous, and playful companion who will keep you entertained while stealing your heart, Cameron is the cat for you!
Toe-mater
Toe-mater has been through a lot, but you’d never know it by how loving and outgoing he is! First rescued from a hoarding situation, this resilient boy then had to undergo surgery to remove a tumor from his nasal cavity. But now, after healing and recovering, he’s ready to find his forever home—and he’s looking for a special person to shower with love!
This sweet orange tabby is the definition of affectionate. He lives for attention, loves to be held, and will happily spend hours on your lap. In fact, your biggest challenge with Toe-Mater will be convincing him to leave your lap at all!
Toe-Mater is a one-and-only kind of guy—he loves people but doesn’t get along well with other cats. He would do best in a single-cat home where he can soak up all the love for himself.
If you’re looking for a devoted, snuggly, and resilient companion who just wants to be your baby, Toe-Mater is ready to be yours!
Providing Animals With Support (PAWS)
PAWS Adoption Center is now open to the public Tuesday – Saturday 11 AM–3 PM. Located at 1125 W. 1130 N. in St. George. All pets are microchipped, spayed, or neutered, and current on vaccinations. Below are the pets currently available for adoption from the shelter. Adoption applications here. For more information contact PAWS at (435) 688-9748.
Rusty
Rusty is a 10-month-old Lab Mix. He loves to play and cuddle right up into your lap. He likes walks… he’s made to be a hiking buddy, running friend and loyal companion. Stop by and meet this beautiful guy at the PAWS Adoption Center.
Rusty is neutered, vaccinated, microchipped, dewormed and ready to go home today!
Traeger
Looking for a loving companion who loves to give and get affection? One who enjoys walks and playing with other dogs, is good with kids and all humans, well meet Traeger. This 6-year-old Retriever/Poodle mix is one handsome guy and is just the best! He is obsessed with tennis balls and will play for as long as you throw the ball.
Come meet this great dog at PAWS.
Isa
What can you say about a dog as sweet and loving, playful and well-mannered as Isa? I guess we just did! This 2½-year-old beauty loves to go on walks, adventures, runs, play with other dogs, but most importantly she loves cuddles with humans. She’s a very well-rounded girl who is looking for a fun-loving family.
Isa is a Heeler mix and weighs about 50 pounds. She will be a great pet!
Bones
Bones is a great cat and he’s so handsome! He needs to be the only cat in the home. He is very lovey with his humans. Bones is also litterbox trained. He is available for foster-to-adopt. Bones is about 2 years old and is ready to find his forever home.
Come in and meet this great guy!
Sydney
Sydney is an older, calm gal at 13. She is very sweet and loving. Sydney has beautiful long fur that she likes to have brushed. She is deaf so she does prefer to the only cat in the home. She loves a lap to sit but is also a lovely independent girl. This angel came to us from the California wildfires. She would make a great addition to any quiet home that wants some unconditional love in it.
Come and meet this angel at PAWS!
Icey
Foster-to-Adopt one of the most delicious cats in town. Icey does prefer to be the only cat in the home. Icey is a lovely California girl who survived the fires. She’s approximately 4 years old. Icey has gorgeous blue eyes and soft, white fur with several adorable markings. She is calm and sweet. She loves to rub up against your legs and ask for pets. Icey has wonderful litterbox manners. She would make a wonderful addition to any home.
Because Animals Matter
Because Animals Matter is dedicated to reducing animal abuse and neglect 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. If you’re interested in any of our beautiful animals, submit a BAM Adoption Application and, if approved, we will contact you as soon as possible to arrange a meeting. If you don’t hear back within 7 days, please text us at (435) 773-5209.
Lady Bug
Sweet Lady Bug is an incredibly beautiful girl, about two and a half years old with fur like velvet. At 40 lbs, she’s the perfect mid-size girl.
Just like the ladybug she’s named after, Lady Bug is here to bring good luck and joy to your life! This sweet, active girl is eager to please and has been thriving in her foster home. She’s responsive to commands and has been practicing off-leash recall with her foster family, proving she’s as smart as she is lovable. While she might take a few seconds to warm up to someone new, she quickly realizes they’re here to show her love and kindness. Once she knows you, she loves to play with toys and go on fun adventures.
Lady Bug gets along great with other dogs (big and little!) and would love to have a canine friend to play with and learn from. Her compatibility with cats is uncertain but she would likely require training and/or a slow introduction. A crate isn’t her favorite place to be but she has proven she can be trusted. When left unsupervised with her current canine siblings, she is well-behaved and non-destructive. She’s spayed, microchipped, fully vaccinated, and ready to find her forever home.
Sophie
Gorgeous Sophie is a calm, yet energetic five-year-old girl who is great with kids and other dogs. She is extremely smart and eager to please. She is house trained and uses a doggy door but, if one is not available, she will let you know if she needs to go outside.
Sophie has been diagnosed with a condition called Pannus. It is an auto immune disease which affects her eyes. It is treatable, but she could eventually lose her sight. This doesn’t slow her down though; she still loves to play with her toys and take long walks.
Jodi
With her cute underbite, three-year-old Jodi might just be one of the most adorable girls we’ve ever met! Jodi came to us with a difficult history but thanks to her perseverance and the love and patience of the BAM team, she has blossomed into a staff favorite. She’s trusting, wiggly, and full of joy once she feels comfortable and builds a bond with someone.
Jodi requires slow, managed introductions with new people and is selective when it comes to other dogs. She’s searching for someone to be her person: a dedicated adopter who can provide the love and consistency she needs to thrive. While Jodi has lived with kids in the past, we recommend a quieter home with no children. She could potentially live with another dog if they hit it off during a meet-and-greet but she may do best as the only dog in the home. Jodi needs a calm, structured environment where she can settle into a routine without frequent interruptions from visitors.
Jodi is spayed, microchipped, and up to date on her vaccinations. She is 45 pounds. She has made incredible progress since coming to us but will need an adopter who’s committed to continuing her growth. To support her transition, we’ll provide a complementary board-and-train prior to her adoption once she has a committed adopter.
Clyde
One-and-a-half-year-old Clyde is the perfect mid-size boy. He’s quiet, gentle and loving; a little shy at first but warms up quickly. He likes to play with his toys, walks well on a leash and gets along with other dogs, even the little ones. He is a bit afraid of cats, however, but definitely not aggressive towards them.
Clyde’s owner said he wasn’t playful enough so they traded him in for a puppy. When he was left with us, his heart was broken, his coat thin and dull, his skin dark, he had no energy, and his tummy was upset. He was recently diagnosed with hypothyroidism (which is common in dogs) and Addison’s disease (which is not so common). He has begun treatment and we can already see the improvement.
Because his doctor is fine-tuning his medication and he needs to go in for occasional tests, Clyde is available LOCALLY ONLY. That means we are only accepting applications from the Hurricane area (Washington County).
Tank
Tank is a six-year-old pit bull with a heart as big as his smile! This sweet, snuggly boy is a total cuddle bug who loves to burrow under blankets and be close to his humans. He’s happiest when he’s by your side, whether it’s lounging on the couch or doing his adorable “happy tippy taps” when he gets excited.
Tank is a gentle, loving soul who thrives on human affection. He enjoys his favorite chews and will melt your heart with his big, goofy grin. Plus he’s currently in a foster/board and train program with CKC Training and will come with free follow-up training sessions to ensure he settles into his forever home with ease. Unfortunately, he isn’t comfortable around children.
Kairi
Sweet Kairi loves everyone: other dogs, kids, and grownups. When strolling around the neighborhood, she even seemed to be ok with cats, chickens and horses. She’s happy just hanging out, whether going out for a stroll, cruising around town in a car or snuggling next to you on the couch … as long as she knows she’s safe and loved.
Kairi is housebroken, spayed, microchipped and fully vaccinated. She’s also very smart and has been trained to follow several commands. This lovely lady is ready to meet her new family and start a brand new life.
This guide is a wonderful resource for anyone looking to adopt in Southern Utah!