Let’s Find a Home for This Arizona Pup

Shelter Animals Count reports that over 2.9 million dogs entered shelters in the past year, with about 154,000 in Arizona alone. And worse, since 2019, dog adoptions are down as rescues and shelters are struggling to find adopters. With more dogs coming in and fewer getting adopted, overcrowding is a real issue. There are so many dogs, like Hiro, waiting in shelters to find homes — and they’re just as deserving of love.

By adopting, you’re not just giving a dog a second chance — you’re also helping shelters make room for more pets in need. So, if you’re looking for a sign to adopt, here it is. Hiro is ready for a fresh start with someone who sees his worth beyond the challenges. Could that be you?

Here are just a few reasons why you might want to adopt a new dog. 

• You seek companionship.

• You are looking for ways to boost your mental health.

• You’re ready to improve your physical health.

Humane Society of Southern Arizona/

Meet Hiro

Hiro is a blind seven-year-old Siberian Husky who’s already overcome so much and is now on a mission to shed some serious pounds and find his perfect forever home.

While an average Husky weighs 34 to 67 pounds, Hiro came to the Humane Society of Southern Arizona shelter weighing a staggering 158 pounds. HSSVA aims to help him lose nearly 100 pounds, and thanks to a whole lot of love and support, he’s already down almost 20 pounds. But his journey isn’t over yet. He needs a dedicated pet parent who will help him reach his goal weight while giving him the comfort and stability he deserves.

Despite being blind, Hiro navigates life with resilience and heart. He thrives in calm spaces where he can learn his surroundings and move with confidence, and would do best in a home without children. He’s also an independent guy who likes his food and toys all to himself, so he’s best suited as the only pet in the home. But if you’re looking for a loyal, communicative companion who will appreciate every ounce of kindness you show him, Hiro might just be your perfect match.

Traits: White-and-gray Husky. He’s a curious, food-motivated, and deeply resilient pup who’s already neutered, vaccinated, and eager to continue his weight-loss journey.

How to meet Hiro: 

Check out his adoption page for more details. If this inspiring pup has already found his match, don’t worry — there are plenty of other deserving Huskies waiting for a second chance at love. Adoption fees also include initial vaccines, spaying/neutering, and microchipping for your new dog. So, what are you waiting for?

Humane Society of Southern Arizona/

Helping pets with obesity

According to VCA Animal Hospitals, an estimated 40 to 45 percent of dogs in the U.S. are considered obese. The AVMA links pet obesity to diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and hypertension, as well as an increased risk of cancer and orthopedic issues, including painful knee injuries and arthritis.

Pet parents with an overweight dog should consult their veterinarian to create an effective but safe gradual weight-loss plan tailored to their pet. “Weight loss should be carried out stepwise; pets should be weighed monthly to confirm they are losing weight appropriately,” says Dr. Lori Teller, an associate professor in the Texas A&M University College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences. “Rapid weight loss can lead to problems, such as liver disease or nutritional imbalances, and weight loss that is too slow prolongs the adverse effects of excess weight on the pet’s health.”

Exercise is an effective way to support your pet’s weight loss journey. Great weight-loss activities for dogs include:

• Walking

• Swimming

• Playing fetch

Remember to start new exercise routines slowly and don’t hesitate to stop and give your pet plenty of breaks. As their weight improves, you can try new routes to keep your pup mentally stimulated and excited about the extra activity.