Friday, February 6, 2026 |
Photo – Two dogs available for adoption – Courtesy Rawlins Rochelle Animal Shelter
Pets at the Rawlins animal shelter are hoping for a place to call home.
The Rawlins Rochelle Animal Shelter is currently home to two cats and nine dogs, including seven enrolled in the Cage to Save Program, where Wyoming State Penitentiary inmates spend nine weeks training the dogs in obedience and basic manners. The program is expected to graduate its 100th dog this April.
The animal shelter is run by Rawlins Police Lieutenant Daria Hooper. Lieutenant Hooper thanked Pet Partners of Carbon County, a local stray and feral cat rescue, for helping keep the shelter’s cat numbers down.
Each month, Bigfoot99 works with the Rochelle Animal Shelter to highlight a few animals ready for adoption. This month, Lieutenant Hooper asked to feature Batman, an older tan‑colored shepherd‑terrier mix. The police lieutenant said that despite his age, Batman will make a great companion but must be the only pet in the home.
Lieutenant Hooper also asked to spotlight Versace, a nine‑year‑old graduate of the Cage to Save Program. Like Batman, she said Versace should be the only pet in the home.
Lieutenant Hooper said their need to be only pets has made it difficult to find permanent homes for Batman and Versace. Even so, she said both older dogs will make great companions.
Lieutenant Hooper also wanted to mention Denver, a younger black cat. The police lieutenant said Denver is skittish, but likely to grow more comfortable in the right home.
The Rawlins shelter is in need of pet supplies and bedding for animals in its care. Lieutenant Hooper said monetary donations help cover unexpected medical expenses.
To meet an animal, volunteer, or drop off donations, visit the Rawlins Rochelle 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. All adoptable animals are posted on the shelter’s Facebook page and on Petfinder.com. Adoption fees are $35 for cats and $50 for dogs.
