Southern Utah Adoptable Pets Guide
The Independent’s, 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.
Billy
Billy is such a handsome affectionate boy! Billy does take some time to get comfortable with his people and has some quirks when it comes to food, but with time and patience, Billy likes showing off his goofy side. With his wrinkly forehead and his perky ears, you won’t be able to get enough of this goofball! Billy loves to bring his toys to people and is happy to throw them in the air by himself. He is calm in the car and loves to go on hikes. His DNA test revealed that he’s 50% Boxer and 50% American Pit Bull Terrier. Billy can be a great exercise partner, but can also be a nice cuddle buddy! Billy would do best living with only an adult family.
Marley
Looking to add an active furry friend to your family? Marley may be just who you’re looking for! This young and energetic fella also has a sweet affectionate side. Marley is familiar with basic obedience commands like “sit, “paw” and “down,” has great recall and is wonderful on a leash. During times of high excitement like getting ready to go on walks, Marley has a hard time containing himself and will often jump, but staff has been working with Marley to help him refrain from doing this. Marley loves meeting and spending time with human friends and would prefer to be the only dog in a family. He’s very attentive to his people and aims to please. Once he’s comfortable with you, his silly side comes out and you’ll likely see him rolling on the ground, making silly faces and looking for belly rubs. At 4 years old, Marley likely has several active years ahead of him, so if you’re interested in a dog who you can include in some adventures, Marley may be the right fit! He’s also part of our *Single Pets program! That means Marley is eligible for a free flight home and waived the adoption fee! *Single pets do best as the only dog or cat in the home.
Marble
One look into those eyes and you are bound to fall in love! Marble is looking for a special home with love and patience. She had a rough start in life, living on the streets, but now she is finally learning what it’s like to be a dog. When Marble first arrived, she was very nervous of people and didn’t walk on leash. She really bonds with her dog friends and they helped show her that people aren’t so scary. Best Friend’s discovered squeaky toys and treats are the way to her heart. Now going on walks and to the dog park with her dog friends are some of her favorite activities. She takes her time on walks and loves taking in all the sights and smells the trails have to offer.
The ideal home for Marble would be with a family that has patience and will let her blossom in her own time. A quiet home, with a confident dog friend, would benefit Marble as she will still need to acclimate to life in a home environment. Because Marble is a flight risk, she needs a home with a secure yard to prevent her from escaping. With patience and love, we know Marble will blossom into the confident dog she was born to be. It may take some time to gain her trust, but this girl is worth it. If you think your home is the right fit for Marble, go visit her today!
Gilmore
Gilmore is apprehensive with new people, but she wants to trust you, so approach her slowly. Once she’s comfortable, she loves getting pets and tummy rubs. She does fine with other cats.
Born in 2012, Gilmore came from a shelter in northern Utah. She can be nervous in new situations and it would take her a bit to adjust to a new home and she may hide for a bit. A quiet, calm environment would be best for her, preferably with at least one other friendly cat, who can help her adjust. Will you be that special person who gives this Gilmore girl her loving, forever home?
Beckett
Beckett is very shy and cautious around people, and mostly keeps to himself when it comes to other cats. Born in 2013, he came from a Utah shelter. Beckett tends to hide in new situations or sit so very still that you don’t even notice him. He in good health and always uses the litter box. Beckett’s hoping to find a home with quiet people who have a lot of patience.
Roderick
Catch Roderick on top of his favorite cat tower, and he turns into a cuddly, fidgety, roly-poly bundle of love and purrs. While he is on the floor, sharing space with his ten high energy roommates at Best Friends, Roderick might seem a little nervous around people, but if you approach him slowly and patiently, he’ll see his true personality shine.
Born around 2011, Roderick was rescued from Texas after Hurricane Harvey. He has Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV), but he can still live a long and happy life and he can even live with cats who don’t have the virus.
Will you be that special person who gives this ruggedly handsome, sweet introvert his forever home?
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 their care are fully vetted including spay/neuter, vaccinations, microchip, and any medical care they may need. For more information, please contact RSQ Dogs+ at (800) 897-1136 or RSQDogsUtah@gmail.com or visit RSQDogsUtah.org. Note: With respect to the unprecedented situation around COVID-19, any interested adopters can complete an online application and will be contacted by the team.
Sage
Sage is about a year and a half old. Our best guess is shepherd malinois mix of sorts. Sage can be very timid around new people, and especially in new situations, so she is going to need someone willing to work on desensitizing her to the things of the world. She is able to jump fences, so she really needs a secure yard or a plan to keep her in safe when her owners are away. She is a great loving dog, who bonds quickly to her people, and is loyal to a fault. She LOVES water, and hiking, and being able to run. She would make a good hiking, running, or even biking buddy.
Zulu
Zulu is a 9-10-year-old Chihuahua beagle mix. She may have a few years under her belt, but she is just as playful and loving as ever. She loves to please. She knows all sorts of tricks she will do for treats. But she also needs to cut back on treats and find someone who can take her out walking to lose some extra pounds she’s added on lately.
Marilyn
Marilyn is a 10-11-month-old Chiweenie. She came to us with her sister Greta. She is getting used to her new surroundings and is still a little timid, but is very sweet and warms up to people quickly.
Penny Lane
This adorable kitten was found alone in a gutter. She yearns to be loved and enjoys being cuddled. She is currently in a foster with other kittens her age. Penny Lane is house-trained.
Shy
Shy is ready for her forever home. This sweet momma cared for her four babies which now have all been adopted by the same family. She is now ready for someone to give her cuddles and playtime. This sweet girl deserves a loving, furever home, is it yours?
Providing Animals With Support (PAWS)
PAWS Adoption Center will now be open from 12-3 Tuesday-Saturday. PAWS still require social distancing and visitors to wear masks. Please submit adoption applications to dixiepaws.org/adopt and we will arrange an appointment for approved adopters to meet in with proper social distancing and in a sanitized environment. All pets are microchipped, spayed or neutered, and current on vaccinations. Below are the pets currently available for adoption from the shelter.
Mitzy
Mitzy is a 6-year-old ShihTzu who was used as a breeder dog. This girl has clearly had several litters. She had 4 mammary tumors that have been removed and she’s had a full dental. This little girl is just the happiest dog around. She gets along with other dogs and is a very sweet girl. She is now in good health and looking for her new home.
Apollo
6-year-old Apollo is one great dog. He is potty trained, knows all his basic commands, has excellent leash manners, loves other dogs, cats and kids! He recently lost his human to cancer and is now looking for his new home.
Charlie
Charlie is one sweetheart of a dog. He’s approximately 4 years old. This guy is very gentle, social, and loving. He gets along with everyone, humans, and dogs. He’s house-trained, listens well, has great leash manners, and he’s adorable.
DeWitt
DeWitt is 5 years old and a very handsome and loving cat. This sweetheart will make a good companion or family cat. His adoption fee is $75.
Beth
Beth is so special. She’s a calm quiet girl needing a calm loving home. She will make a wonderful companion cat. She loves to make biscuits for you. She’s 3 1/2 years old. Her adoption fee is $75.
Monica
Monica is an 11-year-old Tabby. Her owner could no longer care for her. She is very chill and sweet. She lived with five other cats so she gets along well with other cats. If you are looking for a companion kitty, please consider Monica. Her adoption fee is $50.
The City of Mesquite Animal Shelter
Mesquite Animal Shelter is currently closed to the public. Please visit our Petfinder website for a current listing and more detailed information on the animals. Mesquite Animal Shelter Petfinder or Please also check our Facebook pages for lost and found animals along with pet information at Mesquite Animal Control. All animals will be spayed or neutered prior to leaving shelter and receive 1-year rabies vaccination and city license. Ages are approximate.
Rusty
Rusty is shy at first, but is a sweet guy!! We believe that he is going to make a great pet for any family and their lifestyle! He loves to go for walks and loves to play with toys, especially a ball. Rusty has shown to do well with most dogs. He is still working on his manners as he’s still young and likes to jump around, but nothing a few training lessons wouldn’t correct. His adoption fee is $60.
Mikey
Mikey is approximately 1 year old. Due to an old injury, Mikey had his leg amputated shortly after arriving at the shelter but he gets around without any problems! He is very shy, it will take time for him to warm up, but is a very loving boy! He knows to sit and is semi house-trained. He loves to play with toys and other dogs, He would probably do best in a home without small children. Mikey is outgoing, has a great personality, and has a lot of attitude. His adoption fee is $60.
Ollie
Ollie is a pit bull terrier mix and is approximately 3 years old. Ollie is extremely shy but is a very sweet guy. There’s a good chance his personality will blossom once he’s in a loving home. He walks well on a leash and kennels easily. He seems to get along with other dogs and would make a great addition to a quiet home. Ollie does have a heart murmur and will likely require annual vet check-ups. His adoption fee is $60.
Honey Bee
Honey Bee is a fun-loving young lady. She loves being with people and is learning to play with toys. Doing well on leash training. She knows sit. She is strong and will need a secure yard. She gets along with other dogs. Her adoption fee is $60.
Teddy
Teddy is 4 years old. Teddy is a very handsome boy who is anxious to find his forever home. He has had a lot of recent changes in his life and is feeling pretty insecure. He will benefit from a quiet environment where he can adjust slowly with some love and encouragement. Teddy is full of affection and truly appreciates cuddle time with his friends. He is easily handled and loves to be petted and brushed. He has shown no problems being around the other cats in the shelter. His adoption fee is $40.
Rona
Rona came to shelter wit 3 siblings who were found as strays. Rhe is very shy and would do best in a quiet home where she can get lots of attention and love. She likes playing with all types of toys and with the other kittens/cats in the room. Her adoption fee is $40.
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.
Ace
Ace is a happy, big old pup who has no idea he’s ever been injured, has recently had major surgery, and definitely doesn’t’ know that he’s supposed to have been calm and quiet while recuperating. His vet is amazed at just how well he has done so quickly! Ace has a lot of energy and will need an active home. He would love to have a nice big yard to play in, along with regular and increasing exercise to strengthen his leg. In a few months, he’ll likely want to go on hikes and long walks. In the meantime, he loves affection and he loves to play! If he has toys and balls, he can entertain himself for long periods of time. He’d love you to throw the ball, but if you’re not available, he’s perfectly capable of throwing it for himself!! He needs to learn some manners but he is a bright boy and will learn quickly. He does tend to be toy possessive so some supervision will be needed with his doggy playmates. Ace will need an adopter with patience and one who is willing to care for him if his leg causes him issues in the future.
Bruno
Bruno is a stunning Great Dane blend. He was saved from a near-certain death when he was running loose with a group of other dogs out in Hildale. Unfortunately, after several months, his rescuer was unable to keep him so he’s looking for a home where he can be loved forever. He’s grateful to have had the time to be part of a family and you will be the benefactor of the love and training he’s received during those months! Bruno loves to play tug of war and keep away so he can keep your biceps bulging or at least keep your arms strong! He can run really, really fast with those long legs so he can help you with cardio too. Actually, he’s a built-in work out partner! Bruno is very much not a fan of cats. He does like kids as long as they are gentle with him and treat him respectfully as all children should be taught to do with all dogs. He doesn’t give his affection super quickly but once you have his heart, he gives it freely and fully. Bruno is housebroken and knows how to sit, shake, jump up, and come running on command. We’re told that he is approximately 4-5 years old, but looking at how white his pearly whites are, BAM thinks he is younger. He is ready to go home with that special someone who looks in his gorgeous eyes and knows that he will be the perfect companion for him.
Frodo
Little Frodo had surgery June 8th for a major, badly infected bite wound that almost ended his life. In addition, he has a heart murmur, a large cyst on his back which needs to be removed, and his teeth need cleaning. His staples came out on the 23rd but he still has a rather large gap in his neck which needs monitoring while it continues to heal. He is the sweetest, tiniest little guy ever, and even being in so much pain, he still gives kisses and wants his tummy tickled. Frodo will need an adopter who understands he will require ongoing medical treatment and is prepared to give him his best life ever. He will repay you with endless love and affection. Can you be his medical foster and guardian angel for his remaining days?
Veg
Veg, named for his love of vegetables, is said to be an absolute gem of a dog by his foster mom. He came to BAM from Needles, California where he had been languishing in a shelter for six months. One positive from his time there: in addition to their absolute love of him, a trainer worked with him regularly and it absolutely shows. Not only is Veg a handsome, golden-eyed beauty, he is also a very obedient and social young boy. He knows sit, down, kiss, and can shake with both paws. He loves the water and does very well with other dogs. His temperament with cats is unknown. He sleeps well in a crate at night and is a very well behaved house dog. Veg will make an excellent companion for hiking and exploring as he is active, athletic, and walks well on a leash. When he and his foster sister recently made a brief escape from home (he’s still got a little work to do with door bolting) they were both stopped dead in their tracks by the neighborhood Chihuahua. His foster mom called and they both came running so he also learned good recall. He reacts very positively to correction and is more of a follower than a leader with his dog friends. Veg is estimated to be less than 2 years of age, weighs about 60 lbs, has all of his vaccinations, is micro-chipped and will be neutered before his adoption is completed. He is available to go locally to a foster to adopt home now with the adoption finalized when he is neutered.
Kasey
Kasey is a sweet senior, 11 to 13 years old, who acts like she is still a young pup. She is good with other dogs and cats, enjoys snuggles on the couch and sleeping on the bed, is house trained with a doggie door, and has the softest fur! She loves, loves, loves to chase a ball, and will let you know when she thinks it’s time to play. She also loves a good game of tug-of-war and will pull a fluffy toy from her toy box, remove the stuffing and bring it to you to pull on. Kasey is very smart and will converse with you, uttering short barks and whines but will stop and lay down when petted and told “enough’ or “off”. She will also let you know when someone is at the door by barking and wagging her tail. Watch her though, because she can be an escape artist. Wheather biting the stream from the garden hose or lying in the Virgin River, Kasey loves water as much as riding in the car with her head out of the window, ears flopping in the wind. She savors a good treat just like any girl. Her foster gives her chicken, beef, pork, and apples on their morning walks, and then she will come home to beg a biscuit from his wife. They do have to be sure to keep them away from the edge of the counter however because they have been known to disappear. Kasey is ready to give and receive love and play with her new family. To meet her, contact David or Sharon at (435) 862-2207.