Breya and other pets for adoption at Phoenix-area shelters

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

Each week, The Arizona Republic highlights a handful of the many pets available for adoption at shelters across the valley. To check the status of a particular animal, please contact the shelter directly.

Nero: A Gentle Giant

Realizing that you are no longer equipped to care for your pet is as heartbreaking for you as it is for your furry family member. For six-year-old Neron, that’s exactly how he became a resident of the Arizona Humane Society.

The 6-year-old Gray-Muzzle Boxer mix was handed over to AHS in early February after his previous family, unfortunately, were unable to dedicate the time needed to continue caring for him. As a resident of the shelter for over 30 days, Neron hopes someone will look at his adorable, wrinkle-filled face and fall in love with him enough to give him the eternal home he so deserves.

Weighing in at just under 81 pounds, Neron has rightfully earned his cutest couch potato title. Not wanting to give away his title, this sweet pup also likes to take meandering walks and prefers a slower pace while enjoying the great outdoors. On a leash and clean, there really isn’t a lot of new “basic” stuff he needs to know, but of course he wouldn’t mind getting some loot or chin scratches in exchange for his continued reign as best boy.

Described as a laid-back meatball by those who have had the pleasure of knowing Neron, this pretty girl would do well in a quieter home with pets that match her quiet energy. Although he has been shown to be kind to his four-legged and two-legged friends, he can also benefit from meeting the whole family as not much is known about his past with the others at home.

How to adopt: Arizona Humane Society matchmaking virtual adoptions by appointment are available to place pets with their families forever. Interested adopters can view available pets, like the notable Neron, and book an appointment online at azhumane.org/adopt.

—Kelsey Dickerson, Arizona Humane Society

Breya: A mysterious cat

Breya is a bit of a mystery cat, as she was dropped off at Sun Cities 4 Paws Rescue in Youngtown without any information. Despite this traumatic event, she is a sweet and loving kitty and knows she is in good hands until she finds a new home. He’s a dilute Tortie, estimated to be about three years old, who gladly accepts brushing and petting and even being picked up.

Breya was fully checked and received all her necessary shots. she is even microchipped. It is not known whether she gets along with dogs or other cats; she will growl when approached by other curious cats, but this could easily be a defensive move on her part until she gets to know each other.

How to adopt: Visit Breya at Sun Cities 4 Paws Rescue, 11129 Michigan Avenue, Youngtown. Adoptions take place Tuesday to Saturday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.; call 623-876-8778 after 10 a.m. Other cats can be seen at Surprise PetSmart, 13764 Bell Road, and Lake Pleasant Towne Center PetSmart, 25372 Lake Pleasant Parkway, Peoria.

—Beverly Bormann, Sun Cities 4 Paws

Fred: A clumsy boy

Handsome and unique, Fred is a one-year-old German Shepherd mix who hasn’t always had so much reason to be so smiley. Today, Fred is a carefree dog who loves to run and play, but when Arizona Humane Society animal emergency medical technicians first rescued him in January, Fred was suffering from two painfully infected ears.

Wounded and bleeding like a stray, Fred’s ears were treated at AHS’ Second Chance Animal Trauma Hospital with surgery to help correct his injuries and relieve his pain. However, despite any discomfort he may have felt prior to his medical procedures, his tail never stopped wagging.

Fred is a goofy boy who thrives in a house with a big garden where he can stretch his long legs. This distinctive pup especially enjoys playing fetch and other fun games with his human friends, but would prefer to be the only pet in his new home. Fred is still young and tends to get overly excited at times. for this reason, he will have to have children of at least 12 years old or older in his future family forever.

How to adopt: Arizona Humane Society matchmaking virtual adoptions by appointment are available to place pets with their families forever. Interested adopters can view available animals, like flirty Fred, and book an appointment online at azhumane.org/adopt.

—Kelsey Dickerson, Arizona Humane Society

Pewty: A friendly feline

Pewty is a 4-year-old domestic shorthair cat who joined Friends for Life Animal Rescue when his owner became homeless. Pewty is a big cat who loves birdwatching, playing with toys and hanging out with his feline friends. Don’t worry, Pewty makes time for his human friends too!

How to adopt: Pewty’s adoption fee is $175. At Friends for Life Animal Rescue, animals are modified, vaccinated, microchipped and dewormed and cats are tested for FELV/FIV.

Please email [email protected] to schedule an appointment, or just drop by to find out more about him! The Friends for Life Adoption Center is located at 952 W. Melody Avenue in Gilbert. For more information, visit www.azfriends.org.

— Jannelle Cosgriff, Friends for Life