Tucson pets need homes

It’s raining cats and dogs at PACC (Pima Animal Care Center).

The public (that’s you) is invited to come and take a look and hopefully adopt a dog or cat as there is overcrowding.

Saturday – May 18
10 am to 7 pm
PACC
4000 N. Silverbell Road
243-5900

Bring the family for food, fun, and music; raffle prizes, a silent auction, local pet vendors, and more

There are special adoption rates and free gift bags with every auction.

Let’s get some of these pets adopted!

Tundra: Good dog looking for forever home

Update: Circle L Ranch, Rescue & Sanctuary is taking Tundra. The Ranch is located in Prescott.

Tundra is 13 years old, spayed, up to date on shots and is healthy other than allergies. She is house broken, good with other dogs and older kids, but not so good with cats.

Her family is moving to a place that doesn’t allow large dogs. This is heartbreaking. If there is no place for Tundra to go very soon, she will end up in the Maricopa County Animal Control.

Right now Tundra is in Mesa but there are options. Tucson Cold Wet Noses will take her with a long-term foster. And Tundra’s adopter is also looking for a responsible home whether in the Phoenix or Tucson area.

Tucson Tails has volunteered to either go pick up Tundra this week or pay for legitimate transport to get her to Tucson, if necessary.

Regular readers of Tucson Tails know that old dogs who are relinquished break my heart. There’s got to be a better way to assimilate them and give them a second chance.  Let’s all work together to make this happen.

If anyone can help, please contact Tucson Cold Wet Noses /Terri or the adopter directly by emailing richard-dian@hotmail.com

Jake the Golden

This is a community project by Vail students in grades 2nd thru 5th. The project came about after the students met greyhounds and golden retrievers. Hear their voices and digital stories.

Pet Project: The Cottonwood Elementary School’s Through Our Eyes Project of Digital Stories titled “Our Voice, Our Eyes” will be presented Saturday, May 11 from 10 to 11:30 am, at the Loft Cinema, located at 3233 East Speedway Blvd.

The Through Our Eyes Project belongs to Vail students in grades 2 through 5. Each year a group of 10 students creates and completes a Service-Learning Project.

Everyone has a voice.

This is the goal of their group; to find their voice, and tell their stories. One student in the group reminded them that everything has a story and this includes animals. This was the start of their journey…to be the voice of rescued Greyhounds and Golden Retrievers. They decided to tell the dogs’ stories.

The students had the pleasure of meeting rescued Greyhounds from Arizona Greyhound Rescue, Golden Retrievers from Rescue a Golden of Arizona, and some dogs from Humane Society of Southern Arizona.

Each student will present a short video telling the story of a very special dog. The shared message of each story is to “Respect All.”  Some of us have to speak louder for those with a softer voice.

Photographs will be available for purchase at the theater. Donations of $5 will be accepted for admission to the Loft. 100% of the proceeds will be shared by Arizona Greyhound Rescue, Rescue a Golden of Arizona, and the Humane Society of Southern Arizona. These organizations are devoted to ensuring that animals are cared for, respected, honored, and valued. The students are grateful for the time, money and love given to these dogs by the volunteers and owners.

This will be a beautiful and special event to celebrate the voice, action, dedication, and art of our local youth. Please come out to support our young artists and local rescues by filling up the Loft Cinema.

Needs TLC

Available at Pima Animal Care: Buckshot # 432781 is up for rescue for eye problems. His eyes were kind of matted. He was an owner turn in. His card said he lived with a couple and 2 kids ages 3 & 9. He lived outdoors, got along with other dogs, was gentle and tolerant, friendly, and good with kids.

Look at Buckshot’s eyes. They look into his soul. He looks like he could use some TLC about now.

Buckshot is available through PACC.

You can follow PACC Pets Need You on Facebook which is a volunteer-run group networking the pets at PACC needing adoption. All the pets are located here in Tucson.

Urgent for Betty

Betty also needs to be rescued by 7 pm tonight (May 10).  She has been at PACC since April 3. Follow PACC Pets Need You on Facebook and read all about her.

Beautiful Brooklyn

This is the last in a series of adoptable black dogs in Tucson and Green Valley. Please share parts 1, 2, and 3.  Let’s get these doggies adopted! Black dogs traditionally wait longer for their forever homes. Walk a black dog and you will look 10 pounds thinner!

In the Arms of Angels

Brooklyn is approx. 4 1/2 years old, house-trained, and uses a doggie door. She gets along with everyone (other dogs + kids) but not cats. When found she was severely malnourished but has regained her strength. Brooklyn is part Plott Hound because she greets people with a friendly howl. She is looking for love and will be your loyal companion. Rescue ID: A406980

Nafera needs love too

Tucson Cold Wet Noses

Nafera is a beautiful 6-year-old girl who weighs in at a svelte 45 pounds. PACC identified her as an Australian Shepherd mix , but after getting a haircut, she looks more like a Labrador Retriever with beautiful golden eyes. She knows the doggy door, is housebroken, lives with other dogs in her foster home, walks well on leash. Nafera sometimes limps from arthritis but it doesn’t slow her down. Should be in a home with kids 10+ years old. If interested, please call foster mom, Becky, at 520-271-5821

Spirit Greyhound blossoms

Southern Arizona Greyhound Adoption

Spirit is an almost 5 year old greyhound who is adapting to home life. She loves soft beds, quiet rooms, and squeaky toys. She uses a doggie door. She would do best in a home with other dogs (not small dogs). Her status with children is not known at this time but probably the older the better. How do retired racing greyhounds adapt to home life?

Dawn wants you

The Animal League of Green Valley

Dawn is a 5 to 6 year old mahogany Retriever/Chow mix who is friendly, walks pretty well on leash but will get better with more practice. She’s fluffy, weighs 40 pounds, and is pretty sure if she had a yard and some well behaved kids and/or another dog she will be come the loving companion she was meant to be.  One thing is certain — she will be forever grateful for the opportunity.

Embrace diversity — adopt a black dog.

Rosa: Ready to go home

The Animal League of Green Valley

Rosa is a 5-year-old black Lab mix. She is well behaved, very smart, knows many commands, and is a wonderful dog. She loves people but has never been around cats or kids. And during thunderstorms she wants to be near her people.  (That’s what a thundershirt and a storm defender cape is for/no affiliation-works for my dogs’ thunderphobia). You can learn more about Rosa here. TALGV is a no-kill shelter.

Charlee: cute puppy

Tucson Cold Wet Noses

Charlee is an active puppy who loves to play and chase balls. She is very affectionate and greatly enjoys affection. She had no training but is learning leash training and other positive training; she potties outside and is very food motivated so training will be fun. The best home for Charlee would be an active household where she will get lots of play time and exercise; no children under 13, please.

Jeff = puppy love

Southern Arizona Beagle Rescue

Jeff is a really cute 6-week old black beagle mix pup who is available for adoption.  He is altered, microchipped and up to date on all shots.  This organization desperately needs more foster homes so they can rescue more beagles.  ADOPTED!

Jameson rocks!

Humane Society of Southern Arizona

3 year old Jameson looks pretty tough, but he’s really just a big, ol’ softie. This well-adjusted family companion grew up with children, cats and other dogs of various sizes. His favorite activities include visiting the dog park, going for car rides, snuggling with friends and playing with his prized toys. In his previous home, Jameson was fully house trained, familiar with using a doggy door and happy to sleep in his crate at night. Talk about terrific manners! He is simply the perfect gentleman, but is having a difficult time because of his Valley Fever. #749078  – Pit Bull mix – ADOPTED!

Black dogs – part 1, black dogs – part 2

10 reasons to adopt a black dog!

Here are some tips for photographing black dogs. Black is beautiful.

paw prints to your heart

Who Am I?

A Poem by Scottie McGowan

I’m a dog who comes from a very good home
But now they are busy, and I’m often alone
They feel sorry for me for lack of attention
I need a new family with honorable mention

I’m a stray that somehow escaped from my yard
But no one came looking, so returning is hard
So frightened of what my future may hold
I must pretend that I’m very bold

I’m a dog whose family has met with hard times
Losing their home seems like such a crime
Now they must find another home for me
Oh my goodness, who will that be

I’m a dog who’s been sick and going through hell
But my family can’t afford to make me well
They did the best thing my future to ensure
They surrendered me with broken hearts to endure

I’m a dog in a cage, I know not why
Some people look but then pass me by
I need to get out ere something awful befalls me
My future is dim for as far as I see

I’m a senior dog who has somewhat slowed down
But I’ve a few good years left to play around
Let me show you how gentle and sweet I can be
Just give me some love and I’ll respond with glee

I’m a dog that has some special needs to bear
I’ve lost a leg, or I’m blind, or I sadly can’t hear
I need a special family with time and loving hearts
That won’t care at all if I’m missing some parts

will follow you anywhere

I’m a dog that chases a rabbit round the track
Then lives in a cage till everyone comes back
No loving, no petting, no family; just strife
My dream is for freedom to live a safe, loving life

I live in a place called a puppy mill
I’m so very tired, but there’s another litter still
Please rescue me and have me spayed
So I can be normal, teach me to run and play

I’m a dog that’s neglected or severely abused
They are done with me now, no longer amused
Kicked to the curb to reckon with fate
Please rescue me soon before it’s too late

Rescues all over have heard our pleas
They rallied volunteers like you to help me
Without your kindness many lives would end
But with heroes like you we are on the mend

Fosters have opened their homes and hearts
Not knowing at all what behaviors impart
They repair the damage and training’s the game
Some fall in love, so there we blissfully remain

To many who open their purses at will
To help with our care and huge vetting bills
Our volunteers couldn’t do it all without you
A lick and a play bow to humbly say, “Thank You!”

You generously give of your precious time
Without big concerns for earning a dime
Your reward is knowing that our lives you did save
“Blessings to you!” all we rescues do rave

Some dogs await at the Bridge feeling better
For their special person to greet them whenever
To be reunited and cross over together
To be side by side again, partners forever

There are so many more waiting to be found
That need good homes where love abounds
For available dogs check shelters and web sites
There’s one there for you to rescue tonight.

By Scottie McGowan
Rescue A Golden of Arizona
Southern Director, K9 Operations
February, 2013

Thank you to Scottie for sharing this special poem with Tucson Tails. If you use this poem in any way, please attribute credit to Scottie McGowan and provide a link to Rescue A Golden of AZ. Thank you

We’re par for the course

Tucson Cold Wet Noses

Archie is an adorable Border Collie/Lab Mix. He is 2 years old, 40 pounds, runner/hiker’s dream. He has energy to spare, but is happy to curl up at your feet when it’s time to relax. Archie is neutered, micro-chipped, up to date on all vaccines and house trained. He is a joy to his teenage human brothers and their friends, and gets along with his male and female canine brothers as well. If you are looking for an energetic and loving companion, please call Archie’s foster Mom – Heather at 520-904-3967.  (left: Archie)  ADOPTED!

Christopher: Gentle Giant

Southern Arizona Greyhound Adoption  

ADOPTED! Christopher, is a 3 1/2 year old, 85-pound black beauty. He’s a happy boy, a gentle giant, and cat tolerant. Tucson Tails spent one week respite fostering this hound and he fit right in as a member of my pack. He currently is being fostered long term but is ready for his forever home now.  

Mikito – just the right size

SAFE Animal Rescue

Mikito is a 6 year old Chihuahua Terrier mix who was turned over to Guadalupe Vet Clinic as a stray. He’s the perfect size to take everywhere (not a tiny dog but perfect for carrying around). Mikito gets along with other dogs his size, but can be very shy when meeting new people. He attaches himself like velcro to anyone who shows him some love and kindness. He walks well on leash but can get nervous by loud noises so a harness is recommended. Mikito would be great for a single person (especially women) or an older couple. He would do well with older children but younger ones might frighten him with their fast movements.

You can meet Mikito at the Petco on Broadway/Craycroft from 11 am -2 pm. For more information, please visit our website at www.safeanimals.com or call 520-349-8637.

Bam – Waiting for you

Pima Animal Care Center (PACC)

Bam is a 2 year old Pit Bull mix who has been here since February; up to date on shots. Please share him with all your friends. He has a reduced adoption fee. You can meet Bam at Pima Animal Care Center 4000 Silverbell/Sweetwater or call 243-5900 option 4 and ask to speak with the kennels. Bam A422480  – Adoption Hours are from 12-7 Monday thru Friday and Saturday and Sunday from 10-5.  ADOPTED!

playful Blossom

Humane Society of Southern Arizona

Let love bloom for baby Blossom, 6 month-old, Pit Bull mix.  Slightly timid and tired of spending her formative months as a homeless puppy, Blossom could really use a gentle hand and a reassuring friendly face. Blossom tends to be fearful of some men and overwhelmed by young rambunctious children, but she’s improving by leaps and bounds. With the help of HSSA’s Canine College program, she’s gaining confidence and learning to trust. Plus, she already has a few tricks under her belt! Once you make friends, Blossom will stick to you like glue. If you’re up for a project of love and can offer this sweet girl positive experiences, socialization and training in a calm and stable home, please visit beautiful Blossom today at the HSSA. Blossom – #749738

Here are more available black dogs looking for forever homes in Tucson. (part 1)

10 reasons to adopt black dogs

Gwen: Pointer Mix

May 1 is National Black Dog Day. Black dogs are more difficult to adopt than other color dogs. For the next few days Tucson Tails will be listing some Southern Arizona black dogs available for adoption. If you are a shelter or rescue and have a black dog you want listed, please send a jpg (don’t embed in the document) plus some text (name/age/traits/contact info/etc.) to tucson.tails@yahoo.com

Arizona Bird Dog Rescue

Guinevere, aka Gwen is a 1 or 2 year old spayed female German short-haired pointer mix who is vivacious, affectionate, and loves having another high energy dog to romp around & cuddle with. Her favorite thing in the world is water — whether it’s a kiddie pool, the garden hose or a sprinkler!  She is a svelte, athletic, and a very leggy 65 pounds. Gwen is current on vaccines, is micro-chipped, housebroken, crate trained, and knows basic commands.

She is available; an adoption fee and home visit apply. Contact: arizonabirddogrescue@gmail.com or call 520-334-7171

Tony aced Canine College

Humane Society of Southern Arizona

Tony is rising to great heights from his humble beginnings. Found cruising a busy section of Broadway in January, 1 year old Tony, a pit bull mix, was delivered to safety and is now making the most of his second chance. This mild-mannered and eager to please pup is already proving to be a genius in the Humane Society of Southern Arizona’s Canine College program. Tony shines as he shows off his instant and precise watch me, sit, down and come. Tony gets along famously with most dogs and would be delighted to meet all of the members of your family today at the HSSA!
Tony – #745960   ADOPTED!

Spunky lap dog friendly

SAFE Animal Rescue

Spunky is a 3 year old Lhasa Apso/Min Poodle mix who spent the first three years of his life locked out in the backyard. Fur was gone around his neck and he scratched his skin raw in some areas. After months of vet visits, baths, and good food his fur is growing back in and Spunky is looking much better. Special needs: Skin allergies controlled with diet.

Spunky is a happy go lucky dog that loves to cuddle in your lap while having belly rubs. He’s a very friendly and affectionate dog. Spunky loves stuffed toys and rolling on the couch. He’s also crate trained and uses the doggy door. Spunky gets along with dogs his size and would make a wonderful companion for senior.

You can meet Spunky on Saturdays at the Petco on Broadway/Craycroft from 11 am -2 pm. For more information, please visit the website at  or call 520-349-8637.

Dylan – Let’s make some music

Southern Arizona Greyhound Adoption

Four-year-old Dylan is being fostered with two older greyhounds and enjoys being part of a pack. Dylan brings youthful energy, and the two older greys provide a calming influence. Dylan tolerates kids, although he is not drawn to them. Dylan is house-trained using a doggie door. Dylan is not crated because he doesn’t have behavior issues. He handles grooming without fuss. Dylan loves toys! This gentle, loving greyhound could be a long-time companion as a second or third dog in a pack. No cats or small dogs.

Pure Lab looking for love

Tucson Cold Wet Noses

Champ is an 8-9 year old neutered pure breed Labrador Retriever needing a forever home. He is very sweet and loving. He has some arthritis and  needs to lose weight which should greatly help his arthritis. He also has thunder storm anxiety which has been controlled with a sedative. General blood work values were all normal including thyroid level. He is heartworm negative as well. He is currently on anti inflammatory medication for his arthritis, as well as science diet r/d for weight loss. Champ gets along great with other dogs. If interested, please contact Tucson Cold Wet Noses.

Here are the top 10 reasons to adopt a black dog.

Once you go black, you’ll never go back

May 1 is National Black Dog Day. Here are 10 reasons to adopt a black dog. Can you think of more reasons? If yes, please post in the comments.

–Walking a black dog makes YOU look 10 pounds thinner!

–Black is classic, elegant and never goes out of style.

–Black dogs’ coats are so shiny and their teeth look whiter on a black background.

–Black dogs are likely to scare off intruders even if your dog is a big wuss.

–Black dogs are easy to find in the snow.

–Black dog hair doesn’t show up on your jeans and black pants like white or golden dog hair does.

–Black dogs wear hot, neon colors and look so fun & fashionable.

–Black dogs are always dressed appropriately for cocktail parties. Some black dogs even have built-in tuxedos.

–When black dogs age, their faces turn white and the contrast is stunning. (I wish us humans aged so well.)

… and the most important reason…

–Black dogs are usually the most difficult to find adoptive homes for and the most often killed. Beauty is skin deep (or fur deep). It’s not the color that matters. Black dogs have plenty of unconditional love to go around. May your next adoptable dog be black.

National Black Dog Day (May 1), is a special day devoted to highlighting the plight of black dogs in shelters around the country. Created by Celebrity Pet Expert and Animal Advocate Colleen Paige and sponsored by the Animal Miracle Foundation.  Follow on Facebook.

(Photo: Jennie is a mixed breed rescue dog belonging to Jean Rettus.)