Friday, January 9, 2026 |
Photo – Zara and Bud – Courtesy Rawlins Rochelle Animal Shelter
Cats and dogs at the Rawlins animal shelter are waiting for a family to call their own.
Last month, the Rawlins Rochelle Animal Shelter held its Home for the Holidays foster event. The annual program allows people to temporarily take a dog or cat into their home, giving both the animal and the foster family companionship during the Christmas season. The Rawlins shelter supplies food and medical support for the animals while they are in foster care.
Rawlins Police Lieutenant Daria Hooper, who oversees the animal shelter, said no one took advantage of the Home for the Holidays program. Instead, residents donated needed supplies to support the animals in the city’s care.
The Rawlins Rochelle Animal Shelter is home to six cats and 14 dogs, including five enrolled in the Cage to Save Program, where Wyoming State Penitentiary inmates spend nine weeks training the dogs in obedience and basic manners.
This month, Lieutenant Hooper asked to highlight one particular dog she hopes to see adopted: Bud, a black‑and‑brown rottweiler mix. The police lieutenant said Bud would make a great companion but needs to be the only pet in the home.
Bud was featured in last month’s Bigfoot99 animal shelter spotlight. Lieutenant Hooper said Bud is energetic and sociable, with skills he learned through the Cage to Save Program. However, Bud isn’t a fan of cats and needs a home without other animals.
Lieutenant Hooper also asked to highlight a young calico cat named Zara. The police lieutenant said Zara is gentle and loves attention.
Lieutenant Hooper said last month’s featured cat, Zelda, is still available for adoption. Zelda is an overweight six‑year‑old tabby who is very affectionate but would do best in a home with older children.
The Rawlins Rochelle Animal Shelter is asking for donations of blankets, toys, treats, and bagged pet food, which it distributes to families in need. Lieutenant Hooper said the shelter also relies on monetary donations to help pay for medical needs that extend beyond basic vaccinations and exams.
Lieutenant Hooper said to check the Rawlins Rochelle Animal Shelter’s Facebook page to see the animals available for adoption. The police lieutenant added that the shelter has also been posting adoption stories on the social media platform.
The shelter is also seeking volunteers to help clean and care for the animals. Lieutenant Hooper said volunteering is challenging, but worthwhile work.
To meet an animal, volunteer, or drop off donations, visit the Rawlins animal shelter at 2711 East Murray Street during normal business hours, Monday through Friday from 3:00 to 5:30 p.m. or call 328‑4534 to schedule an appointment. Adoption fees are $35 for cats and $50 for dogs.
