Miss Gila River Recognizes National Dog Day, Encourages Dog Adoption

Kyle Knox

Gila River Indian News

National Dog Day is recognized on August 26 to honor our four-legged family members and encourage dog adoptions. To celebrate the event, shelters from across the country highlighted dogs eligible for adoption. 

The event was recognized in the Community with the help of Miss Gila River, Alyse Marrietta. She showcased her dogs, including “Lily Picadilly,” a rescue she adopted at the Community’s Animal Control Dog Shelter. In a Facebook photo, Marrietta wrote: “Lily is very special to me because I adopted her from the Gila River Animal Control. I remember the day I went to pick her up, the way she looked at me with her doe eyes made my heart melt.” 

For Marrietta, the adoption process was easy. Not only did Lily find comfort in her new forever home, but Marrietta did as well, stating, “Who knew this little rez dog would bring so much joy to my life.” 

The Community’s National Dog Day effort to encourage adoptions also included a video posted on GRIC social media outlets. The video highlights the Animal Control programs and facilities located in District 5.

“We have been trying to increase the number of our adoptions, but due to COVID, we didn’t allow people to come in, and that’s one thing that slowed down adoptions,” said Yvonne Flores, GRIC Animal Control Supervisor. Today, the facility is back open by appointment only to provide services such as the spay/neuter and vaccination programs. Additionally, Animal Control is back to field operations, including owner turn-ins, bite investigations, and stray dog roundups. 

As part of the adoption process, Flores shared that a small fee of 20 dollars is collected to help fund the dog’s license, vaccinations, and spay/neuter service. In addition, Community members can call the office to get an inventory of available dogs or schedule a time to view the dogs. 

“If you’ve ever wanted the chance to have a lifetime fur friend, adopting from Gila River Animal Control is a great option. There are plenty of puppies and dogs looking for a loving home,” said Marietta.

For more information about adopting, contact GRIC Animal Control at 520-562-5177.