Despite a widely-reported pet overpopulation problem here in the Valley, close to two dozen dogs from an animal cruelty case in Alabama are now at a Phoenix shelter. “They need someone to take care of them”.

During the mid/late summer, it is typical for animal shelters to see a spike in incoming cats and kittens.

In August, the dogs were transported thousands of miles to the Phoenix shelter to continue rehabilitation.

“Adult cats are more mature, independent and self-sufficient”. Fifty-one of them have been there for more than a year.

If you have considered adopting a cat, now’s the time. “If your friends come over and smell like other cats and yours seems upset, agitated or hisses, it could be an indicator”, says Adi Hovav, senior feline behavior counselor at the ASPCA. “You may want to pick a cat who hangs back a little bit, who’s a little curious but not zealous, because that cat can learn a lot from yours, and your cat won’t be threatened by that”.

She was the cat of choice for Priest.

“If they do fight all the time, and they’re not happy, then you have to think about peace and happiness”, says DeFeo, who recommends asking if the shelter accepts returns before finalizing the adoption. “We really encourage pet owners to have their animals microchipped – it insures that if your pet gets lost or stolen you have an excellent chance of quickly being reunited with your beloved family member”. He believes the older cats are mellowed out, house-broken and typically don’t tear or chew household items up.

Both towns are set to review whether they too will waive their fees for sterilized and vaccinated pets belonging to those on public assistance, county officials said. “As well as we try to treat them here, it’s still not the same as having the individual attention and the love they get in a home”. Momma was an exception.

“As an added attraction”, Hawke said, “our loyal supporters, Dennis and Nila Anderson, have agreed to walk naked and barefoot in the park at the Pet-a-Palooza”.

Aside from recovering from a broken leg and some dental issues, Momma is in good health and fits in well with the other two cats he has, Priest said. A four-legged ball of fluff can bring unbridled joy – and it won’t be long until you fantasize about giving your pet a brother or sister.