An 8-month-old Staffordshire Terrier mix named Esperanza is ready for a family after arriving at Pet Rescue in Harrison severely underweight and in poor health.
The puppy, whose name is the Spanish word for "hope," was found severely underweight and clearly neglected, according to Pet Rescue's adoption listing on MyRye.com. She has since recovered at the nonprofit's facility at 7 Harrison Ave., where an onsite veterinary clinic provides health assessments, vaccinations, spay/neuter procedures and specialist care to animals before they're placed in homes.
Esperanza is now eating well and gaining weight. The shelter describes her as gentle, good with other dogs and affectionate with people. She has hazel eyes, floppy ears and a striking orange coat, and is expected to reach about 35 pounds as an adult.
Pet Rescue, a volunteer-run no-kill rescue founded in 1982, operates a kennel, onsite veterinary clinic and a dedicated cat space called the Kitty Cottage at its Harrison facility. The organization restored the building using donor funds and relies entirely on volunteers and donations to care for animals, going through more than 2,200 cans of wet food and 1,600 pounds of dry food each year.
The shelter noted in its listing that Esperanza is still adjusting to feeling safe and will thrive with a patient family willing to give her time and kindness. Since Esperanza is classified as a puppy, her adoption donation is $550.
How to adopt
Pet Rescue's adoption process has four steps: read the FAQs at ny-petrescue.org, browse available animals and indicate interest in up to three, complete the online application (best done on a computer) and submit. The all-volunteer team reviews applications as quickly as possible.
Applicants must live within 125 miles of Larchmont, be at least 23 years old and be ready to bring a dog home within seven to 10 days.
Prospective adopters can meet Esperanza and other available dogs at Pet Rescue's weekly Dog & Puppy Meet & Greet, held every Saturday from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at 7 Harrison Ave. The shelter recommends submitting an application before attending, since processing takes time.
For dog inquiries, call (914) 835-3332 or email [email protected].
Upcoming community events
- Pet Rescue Dog & Puppy Meet & Greet: Every Saturday, 11:30 a.m.–1:30 p.m., 7 Harrison Ave., Harrison
- Humanistic Judaism Q&A and Concert: Saturday, Aug. 8, location disclosed to ticket holders
- Paws in the Park (Pet Rescue annual fundraiser): Saturday, Sept. 26, 2–5 p.m., Harbor Island Park, Mamaroneck
