The Arizona Republic

Pookie is a cute and independen­t tabby cat

- — Kelsey Dickerson, Arizona Humane Society

Every year, approximat­ely 6.5 million companion animals enter shelters nationwide, according to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals. Of those, about 3.3 million are dogs and 3.2 million are cats.

Each week, The Arizona Republic highlights a handful of the many pets up for adoption at Valley shelters. To check the status of a specific animal, please contact the shelter directly.

Pookie

One look at this 5-year-old domestic shorthair tabby and it is no wonder why her name is another word for cute! Pookie is one of a few pets that were rescued by an Arizona Humane Society Emergency Animal Medical Technician after her owner, unfortunat­ely, passed away. A stark reminder of the importance to have a plan in place for pets should an emergency arise, both long and short term.

This exotic looking kitty was treated for an upper respirator­y infection in AHS’ animal trauma hospital prior to spending some time in a foster hero home healing. Upon return to the shelter and in search of her new home, it was discovered that Pookie was having a rather rough time adjusting to life in the shelter. Because of this, she is currently receiving lots of love and care in a foster home to help her stay at ease while still being available for adoption.

Pookie loves getting pets on her cheeks and will head-butt her people when she wants more attention. Like the independen­t kitty she is, however, this cat loves to have her own space and going at her own pace – especially in a new environmen­t or with new people. With a little time, lots of love and socializat­ion, and a dash of patience, Pookie is sure to make a loving friend for her future forever family.

How to adopt: The Arizona Humane Society’s adoption locations remain closed as the shelter continues to heal and rehabilita­te pets coming in but its Virtual Matchmakin­g Adoptions by appointmen­t is available to place pets with their forever families. Interested adopters can view available pets, like Pookie, and schedule an appointmen­t online at azhumane.org/adopt.

 ?? COURTESY OF THE ARIZONA HUMANE SOCIETY ?? Pookie is a 5-year-old domestic shorthair tabby who loves attention, especially having her cheeks petted.
COURTESY OF THE ARIZONA HUMANE SOCIETY Pookie is a 5-year-old domestic shorthair tabby who loves attention, especially having her cheeks petted.

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