Ricardo and more pets are up for adoption in Phoenix-area shelters

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 select number of the many pets available for adoption at Valley shelters. To check the status of a specific animal, please contact the shelter directly.

At just one year old, Ricardo the Australian Cattle Dog mix has already been through quite a bit in his short life. At just about 47 pounds and full of lots of personality, this sweet boy arrived to the Arizona Humane Society after being found abandoned for nearly a week.

Ricardo is a sweet, social boy who loves pets, treats, and long sniffy walks to explore his surroundings. While at the shelter, he has shown that he does great with other dogs and might enjoy a home with a playful canine friend.

Last year alone, the Arizona Humane Society cared for more than 25,000 sick, injured and abused pets just like Ricardo. While his story will have a happy ending, it is a reminder that resorting to abandoning a pet is never the answer and the shelter has many resources for pet owners in need of help with their furry friends.

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