Pets in Shelter

About Us

Desert Paws Sanctuary is committed to the rescue, rehabilitation, and rehoming of abandoned animals. Our mission is to establish a sanctuary for these animals while also offering educational resources and support to low-income communities in the area of animal welfare.

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Agnus

Agnus

Female 4 months oldMicrochipSpayedVaccines

Agnus is loving but shy. Agnus might need a sibling to help her become more independent. Agnus and her siblings were found behind a mobile home.

Asha

Asha

Female10 year oldMicrochipSpayedVaccines

Asha, a 10-year-old Staffordshire, spent her entire life as a stray, observed by many in the community. Despite enduring multiple litters and an old injury, likely from a car accident, she recently underwent surgery for tumors and skin cancer. She is affectionate and gets along with dogs of all sizes. She enjoys spending time outdoors. Now in a permanent foster home, please consider making a donation to support her well-being.

Aspen

Aspen

Male4 months old15 lbsMicrochipNeuteredVaccines

Aspen was rescued in Thermal by a good Samaritan. He was found wandering for two days in temperatures over 105 degrees Fahrenheit. Aspen, just a puppy, deserves a loving and nurturing home. He loves to talk, just like huskies do, and is playful with a fondness for toys.

Blaze

Blaze

Males3 years old45 lbsMicrochipSpayedVaccines

Blaze, a 3-year-old Husky mix, is a sweet dog who enjoys both going for walks and lounging on the couch. He loves his toys and is particularly fond of watching TV, especially dramas. He’s quiet and gets along well with his foster siblings. Blaze is potty and crate-trained. Blaze was saved from the euthanasia list at our local shelter

Buster

Buster

Male11 years old20 pounds lbsMicrochipNeuteredVaccines

Buster was originally supposed to stay with us while his owner underwent hip surgery. Unfortunately, his owner did not return home, leaving Buster alone. Buster is an 11-year-old Poodle who would thrive as the only dog in the household. He previously lived with two cats and gets along well with feline companions. Buster is healthy, loves to cuddle, and is both potty and crate trained.

Calie

Calie

Female6 weeks oldMicrochipSpayed

Callie and her two siblings were discovered abandoned inside a dumpster in Thousand Palms, CA. A Good Samaritan contacted us, and we successfully rescued and rehabilitated them back to health.

Charlotte

Charlotte

Female1 year old25 lbsMicrochipSpayedVaccines

Charlotte was discovered as a stray and has a playful spirit. She enjoys the company of other dogs and is quite athletic. Charlotte is a real sweetheart who is sure to bring a smile to your face, she is a gentle soul.

Cheddar

Cheddar

Female5 weeks old2 lbsMicrochipSpayedVaccines

Cheddar came from a litter found in Mecca. Thanks to a nearby neighbor who contacted us, we were able to provide a safe environment for Momma and Cheddar's siblings so that their mother could nurse them.

Courage

Courage

Male1.3 years old40 lbsMicrochipNeuteredVaccines

Courage, a Pitbull Terrier, was found as a stray on the eastern side of the Coachella Valley. According to neighbors, he had been limping since they first saw him seven months ago. After rescuing him, we discovered he needed hip surgery, possibly due to being hit by a car. Now in recovery and undergoing hydrotherapy, he is learning to use his leg again. Courage is a sweet, lovable dog who gets along with other dogs and can tolerate cats. He loves to cuddle, won't leave your side, and adores belly rubs. Courage is one of our favorite dogs.

Danny

Danny

Male6 weeks oldMicrochipNeutered

Danny and his two siblings were discovered abandoned inside a dumpster in Thousand Palms, CA. A Good Samaritan contacted us, and we successfully rescued and rehabilitated them back to health.

Elora

Elora

Female6 months oldMicrochipSpayedVaccinesSpecial Needs

Elora, a Terrier/Shepard mix, entered the world with paralyzed front legs, but her affectionate nature shines through. Embracing her unique requirements, she flourishes with patience and empathy, bringing boundless joy, love, and appreciation to those who embrace her presence.

Gouda

Gouda

7 weeks oldMicrochipSpayed

Gouda came from a litter found in Mecca. Thanks to a nearby neighbor who contacted us, we were able to provide a safe environment for Momma and Gouda's siblings so that their mother could nurse them.

Gus

Gus

Male3 years oldMicrochipNeuteredVaccinesSpecial Needs

Gus is a delightful companion with a gentle disposition. His transition from fearful to content reveals his trusting nature. The fact that he enjoys the company of other dogs and is non-reactive towards cats adds to his charm. Gus’s love for sunny spots and preference for soft chews make his personality even more endearing. A happy, leash-trained, and crate-trained friend, he seems like a wonderful addition to a calm and caring home. While Gus has a heart murmur and doesn't require medication, providing him with a serene environment is essential for his well-being and growth.

Harvey

Harvey

Male6-year-old old12 pounds lbsMicrochipNeuteredVaccines

Everyone, say hello to Harvey! This 6-year-old Chihuahua mix weighs 11 lbs. He came to us from a home that couldn’t care for him due to financial difficulties. Harvey had to have all but two of his teeth removed, and a plate was placed in his jaw due to a fracture. Despite everything he has been through, Harvey remains a sweet, loving, and faithful boy.

Jack

Jack

Male7 months old23 lbsMicrochipNeuteredVaccines

Jack is one of six siblings from an accidental litter. We have spayed their mother and are now seeking wonderful and loving homes for them. Jack is initially shy but is a sweetheart who craves love and affection.

Janet

Janet

Female4 years oldMicrochipSpayedVaccines

Janet, a red-listed foxhound rescued from a high-kill shelter, initially shows fear, but once she bonds with you, she becomes incredibly loyal. Currently residing at a ranch, she enjoys the company of various animals, which helps her overcome her timid and fearful nature.

Keli

Keli

Female1.2 years old85 lbsMicrochipSpayedVaccines

Keli is a 1-year and 2-month-old Great Dane/Doberman mix who was rescued from a shelter as a puppy. Due to her owner joining the Air Force, we are now seeking a forever home for her. She gets along well with other dogs and cats and is good with kids, though she sometimes doesn't realize her own size. Keli is energetic and needs an active family. Her favorite toy is a tennis ball, and she loves playing with it for hours.

Luna

Luna

Female5 weeks old2 lbsMicrochipSpayedVaccines

Marlow

Marlow

Male2.5 years old55 lbsMicrochipNeuteredVaccines

Marlow is a bundle of energy who showed up at Natalie's doorstep and never left. He's a big fan of tug-of-war and gets along great with larger dogs. Oh, and if he rolls his eyes at you, don't worry—that's just his cute way of saying he's had enough play for now.

Marvel

Marvel

Male7 years old10 lbsMicrochipNeuteredVaccinesSpecial Needs

With the help of a kindhearted Good Samaritan, we were able to capture and save Marvel. This name suits him well as he demonstrates a remarkable will to live. Marvel was discovered paralyzed with three open wounds on his hind end and was diagnosed with a fractured vertebrae. Despite his challenging situation, he remains a cheerful and lively dog who is eager to share his love and kisses with everyone around him. Marvel enjoys being cuddled and gets along well with both dogs and cats.

Olive

Olive

Female3 years old60 lbsMicrochipSpayed

Olive, a gentle spirit with mesmerizing eyes, has known the hardships of life but remains loving and grateful. Every pet is a blessing for her. Children and adults alike will find a tender companion in Olive, a testament to the power of resilience and love.

Oreo

Oreo

Male9 weeks old old1 lbsMicrochipNeuteredVaccines

Oreo and his sibling were discovered near a trailer home by two young high school students, who are responsible for their survival. They bottle-fed the kittens, but once the kittens turned four weeks old, they could no longer care for them due to financial difficulties.

Penny

Penny

Female5 weeks oldMicrochipSpayed

Penny and her siblings were given away by a man offering them for free at the local Tractor Supply. Fortunately, we were hosting an event that day and were able to rescue them to safety.

Peppa

Peppa

Female4-5 years old6 lbsMicrochipSpayedVaccines

Peppa is a 4-5 year old Chihuahua whose previous owners did not want her. Unfortunately, we receive many calls from people wanting to surrender their animals. Peppa is a petite dog overflowing with love. She is always cheerful, enjoys being around people and other animals, and her long tongue often sticks out. Despite this, it doesn't hinder her from enjoying her daily activities. Once you meet her, you'll surely fall in love with her charm.

Rocco

Rocco

Male4 Years old40 lbsMicrochipNeuteredVaccines

Rocco, a 4-year-old Staffordshire mix, was seen wandering the streets of Coachella for a few months by a Good Samaritan. When he was later spotted limping, a trap rescuer was able to capture him. The Good Samaritan then fostered Rocco through his recovery from hip surgery, which included hydrotherapy. X-rays revealed he had BB pellets embedded in him. Despite his rough life and initial shyness, Rocco becomes a happy and affectionate boy once he trusts you. He needs a patient home and gets along well with other dogs.

Rosie

Rosie

Female2-year-old old6-8 pounds lbsMicrochipSpayedVaccines

Rosie, a 2-year-old terrier mix, has a strong preference for human interaction; she is a sweet and gentle dog. Although she enjoys the company of other dogs, her true affection is for people. Once she settles into her new environment, Rosie will reveal her loving personality and seek to cuddle up right next to you. She is very shy and gets startled easily. Rosie was found on the streets of Cathedral City. When her owners were located, they discarded her and did not want her. Thanks to a foster's willingness to help, she was able to become part of our rescue. Currently, she is being potty-trained.

Ruby

Ruby

Female4 months oldMicrochipSpayedVaccines

Ruby is a loving and shy kitten who will need a sibling to get her out of her shell. She needs an owner who is patient with her. Agnus and her siblings were found behind a mobile home.

Sally

Sally

Female6 months old50 lbsMicrochipSpayedVaccines

Sally is a 6-month-old Catahoula Leopard who loves to play and show affectionate. She was originally adopted from the San Diego Humane Society. Sally was surrendered after they lost their home. She adores people and other dogs and can tolerate cats. Sally is a puppy and is learning basic commands. Sally is potty-trained.

Sandy

Sandy

Sandy

Sandy

Female1.5-year-old old9 pounds lbsMicrochipSpayedVaccines

Sandy is a 1.5-year-old Chihuahua mix who still has plenty of puppy energy. She's sweet with cats and dogs of all sizes. We would love for her to have a furry sibling. She is currently being potty trained. Sandy was found on the streets, and no one came forward to claim her.

Sandy

Sandy

Female7 weeks oldMicrochipSpayed

Sandy was discovered near a feral colony, and we suspect she was abandoned because she is not feral. She is a sweetheart with beautiful eyes and a friendly demeanor.

Shrimp

Shrimp

Male4 months oldMicrochipNeuteredVaccines

Shrimp is a loving kitten who will love you unconditionally. Shrimp might need a sibling to keep him company. Shrimp and his siblings were found behind a mobile home.

Snowball

Snowball

Female9 weeks old old2.5 lbsMicrochipSpayedVaccines

Snowball and her sibling were discovered near a trailer home by two young high school students, who are responsible for their survival. They bottle-fed the kittens, but once the kittens turned four weeks old, they could no longer care for them due to financial difficulties.

Spot

Spot

Male1.5 years old25 lbsMicrochipNeuteredVaccines

Meet Spot, a confident adventurer who loves attention! Once a survivor living near a casino, Spot is now looking for a forever home where he can be the star of the show. He's independent but would love to join you for some quality couch and TV time.

Tina

Tina

Female2 years old10 lbsMicrochipSpayedVaccines

Tina, a 2-year-old Chihuahua, was rescued from the euthanasia list at our local shelter. She is a loving dog who just wants to be loved. Sweet and affectionate, she will make the perfect addition to your home. Tina gets along well with other dogs, both small and large, though her compatibility with cats is unknown.

Meet the Team

Get to know the dedicated board members who make our work possible.

Laura Morales

Laura Morales

Chief Executive Officer

Laura Morales holds a BA in Sociology from Pitzer College and a Master's in Guidance and Counseling. Born and raised in the Coachella Valley, she was deeply impacted by the issue of stray dogs in the community. After adopting a boxer mix named Bailey, Laura, alongside her husband Alberto, began dedicating her time to rescuing animals. They have helped over one hundred animals and continue to advocate for abandoned dogs.

Natalie Rivera

Natalie Rivera

Vice President

Natalie Rivera is a Licensed Vocational Nurse from the Coachella Valley. Her passion for animal rescue began at age 4, encouraged by her father who set up feeding stations for strays. As an adult, she continues her father's legacy by rescuing animals and setting up feeding stations, often involving her children in these efforts. Natalie has helped hundreds of animals and is committed to being a voice for the helpless.

Alberto Morales

Alberto Morales

Secretary

Alberto Morales has always been an animal lover, inspired by his father who often brought home stray dogs. After marrying Laura, his commitment to animal rescue deepened, especially after the loss of their 13-year-old dog, Kobe. Residing in the Coachella Valley for 16 years, Alberto focuses on search and rescue efforts for stray dogs and aims to rehabilitate them for adoption. He believes that community involvement is key to preventing animal suffering.

Yesenia Reynoso

Yesenia Reynoso

Chief Financial Officer

Yesenia Reynoso graduated from the University of Redlands with a degree in Accounting and was brought up in the Coachella Valley. Witnessing the plight of stray dogs in her community led her to make a promise to give back. She is committed to creating a community of foster caregivers for neglected and abandoned animals. Yesenia believes that all dogs deserve love and a safe haven, a belief she practices with her own two fur babies.