HSOY highlights long-stay dogs and cats in need of homes

YUMA, Ariz. (KYMA) - The Humane Society of Yuma (HSOY) takes in hundreds of animals in need every year. While many are adopted quickly, others spend months at the shelter waiting for a place to call home.

For one seven-year-old Lab mix named Denny, that wait has lasted more than a year.

Denny is considered a long-stay dog, along with more than 10 other dogs at the shelter. Staff say cats tend to be adopted more quickly at HSOY than dogs, making it especially important to bring attention to dogs like Denny.

"Denny is on our long-stay board, so if you've been to the shelter, you've seen this really wonderful board that our Dogs Day Out coordinator has put together," said Hilary Mulherin, development manager at HSOY. "It features the dogs that have been here for a really long time, and it's an effort to bring them more exposure and get them adopted."

Denny originally came from the Yavapai Humane Society before being transferred to Yuma in hopes of finding a forever home.

Although Denny is deeply loved by everyone who meets him, staff are still waiting for that special someone to bring him home.

"He is so cute and adorable. He is sweet and has energy. Even though he's a senior dog, he's got a lot of spunk still in him," Mulherin said. "We just saw him zooming around the yard here. Denny is a fantastic choice, so if you're looking to add a new dog to your pack, or if you don't have any dogs and would like to adopt one, come and see Denny. He's a great dog.”

Anyone interested in adopting Denny can request a meet-and-greet with an adoption counselor at the Humane Society.

Although cats tend to be adopted more quickly, four cats are still waiting for homes after arriving at the shelter following the death of their owner.

"We do have a few cats right now that are looking for their forever homes. They all came from an owner who unfortunately passed away, and they're really scared," Mulherin said. "So, we are featuring them all together. We don't expect them to all get adopted together, but we are really hoping that people will at least adopt two so that they can stay together."

Buddy, age 10; Precious, age 10; Sparky, age 4; and Bear, age 3, are all described as sweet and calm felines.

Staff say the cats would likely do best in a calm home without a lot of noise or movement.

"They would probably be a great choice for someone who is elderly," Mulherin said.

During the month of September, HSOY is running a cat and kitten special where adopters can name their price. Those interested in adopting more than one cat will not have to pay an adoption fee.

This Saturday, the Adopt Joy event will take place at PetSmart at the Yuma Palms, featuring a wide selection of adoptable pets.

For more information about adoption, click here.