These dogs at Miami-Dade’s overcrowded animal shelter need homes
By Herald Staff
“Mia #A223521 is a senior 6-year-old who love to give affection and cuddles. She’s quite the aficionado of delicious treats; just throw her a treat and she will catch it in midair. She loves being the center of your attention so she will do best as an only pet.”
Local rescue groups say this is the bleakest time they can remember for homeless dogs, with municipal shelters full and nonprofit sanctuaries also at capacity.
Suffering from COVID-19 pandemic aftershocks — including disruptions in the sterilization services that would reduce dog births and soaring rents that let landlords be less welcoming to tenants with pets — organizations say they’re getting more calls than ever from people eager to find homes for found canines.
Miami-Dade County’s animal shelter was so full at the end of last year that even police officers were told not to expect help with stray dogs that they found roaming the streets.
The shelter prioritizes kennel space for dogs from enforcement actions, such as those rescued from animal-cruelty investigations or inhumane conditions.
Miami-Dade has a “no-kill” policy for its shelter, which bans euthanizing animals for space purposes. The policy, along with the County Commission’s 2020 passage of “Save Charlie” legislation, limits euthanasia to health issues and severe behavioral concerns.
In 2021, Miami-Dade reported only about 300 shelter dogs were euthanized, out of more than 8,500 taken in by the facility.
Among the dogs at the shelter who now need homes are the ones whose photos we present here. Their descriptions, which include the dogs’ identification numbers, were written by staff and volunteers at Miami-Dade County Animal Services.
“Amber #A2393758 is a 4-year-old playful, affectionate and adorable, good girl. This medium-sized beauty thinks she’s a lap dog and loves being near her humans! Please give this quirky girl a home.”
“Bo #A2360840 is a playful and energetic 3-year-old boy who loves playing with toys and splashing around in the pool! This energetic boy would love to join you on your adventures and be your best friend.”
“Looking for unconditional love? Bongo #A2381752 has nothing but love for you. This beautiful, 4-year-old boy always looks his best, especially with his tuxedo patterned coat. He’s a happy boy who can’t wait be the Love of Your Life!”
“Cameron #A2077436 is a silly boy and a star athlete. This handsome, 4-year-old could be your personal trainer keeping you on the move and burning calories. He loves getting back scratches and has done well in his doggie playgroups. He gets a little nervous around children so slow and clam introductions are a best.”
“Dexter #A2350875 a sweet and shy boy who is always excited to be taken on a walk! He is a 2-year-old lad who can’t wait to accompany you on your next adventure and enjoy the beautiful Florida weather by your side.”
“Dice #A2377580 is a 2-year-old curious boy who would love to explore the world with you. He’s gets really excited when meeting new friends and he has so much love to give you! Take a chance on Dice, you never know – he may end up being the Love of Your Life.”
“Lucas #A2026361 is a good boy who thinks he’s a lap dog! He can be shy around new people, but he warms up quick! This handsome 4-year-old loves back scratches, and his silly antics will have you in stitches. If you ever have a ruff day, you can count on Lucas to make it better. Lucas has been waiting for a family since August 2022.”
“Rocco #A2284228 is a big boy, strong, with a lot to say. He loves joining his shelter buddies for multi-dog playgroups. This 7-year-old boy has the energy of a puppy and love to get his exercise and playtime. You’ll have a grand old time trying to keep up with this lovable gentleman at home.”
For these dogs, and others:
If you wish to adopt a pet from the shelter’s Pet Adoption and Protection Center at 3599 NW 79th Ave. in Doral:
Call 311 or 305-468-5900.
(There is also an offsite location inside the Petco Adoption Center at 6200 S. Dixie Hwy. South Miami.)
Dogs older than 4 months carry a $65 adoption fee, which includes all vaccinations, de-worming, spay/neuter surgery, a microchip, heartworm test and rabies license tags. (Fees are waived for military veterans.)
_fitted.png "“Mia #A223521 is a senior 6-year-old who love to give affection and cuddles. She’s quite the aficionado of delicious treats; just throw her a treat and she will catch it in midair. She loves being the center of your attention so she will do best as an only pet.”")
.jpg "Amber A2393758 (1).jpg")
.jpg "Bo A2360840 (1).jpg")
.jpg "Bongo A2381752 (1).jpg")
.jpg "Cameron A2077436 (1).jpg")
.jpg "Dexter A2350875-2 (1).jpg")
.jpg "Dice A2377580 (1).jpg")
.jpg "Lucas A2026361 (1).jpg")
.jpg "19. Rocco A2284228 (2).jpg")