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.
Ready for Adoption
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Agnus
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.
Alaska
Alaska and her sibling were found near a shed. They are super fluffy kittens.
Anakin
Pups were relinquished on the day of our adoption event on 5/11 they were abandoned near a mobile home out in Indio Hills.
Asha
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.
Bagel
After being surrendered by her owner following the loss of one of her siblings, Bagel and her remaining two siblings were taken for medical treatment. We are pleased to share that Bagel has made a full recovery and is now ready to be placed in her forever home. Bagel is a playful and affectionate pup, known for her gentleness.
Bailey
Momma and her litter were found in Mecca, thanks to a nearby neighbor who reached out to us, we were able to provide a safe enviroment for Momma andher kittens so she could nurse them.
Baloo
Baloo is a grey, beautiful fluffy kitten. He and his sibling were found near a shed.
Blueberry
After being surrendered by her owner following the loss of one of her siblings, Blueberry and her remaining two siblings were taken for medical treatment. We are pleased to share that Blueberry has made a full recovery and is now ready to be placed in her forever home. Blueberry is a playful and affectionate pup, known for her love of climbing. She is gentle and enjoys giving kisses.
Bogey
Bogey a stray foundon the streets, is a small, high-energy dog in need of plenty of exercise and mental stimulation. He is alert, and his lively energy and zest for life can infuse a home with abundant fun and excitement.
Calie
Three siblings were found dumped inside a dumpster in Thousand Palms. A good samaritans contacted us for their rescue.
Canelita
Despite challenges and the loss of an eye, Canelita remains a resilient and sweet kitten. Her heartwarming journey includes overcoming initial shyness to reveal a playful nature. Rescued from a high-kill shelter alongside her sister Marshmallow, both escaped the euthanized list, and Marshmallow has been a steadfast companion throughout.
Charlotte
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
Momma and her litter were found in Mecca, thanks to a nearby neighbor who reached out to us, we were able to provide a safe enviroment for Momma andher kittens so she could nurse them.
Cricket
Pepper was found pregnant while roaming as a stray, giving birth to several litters during that time. She is affectionate, enjoys companionship with other dogs, and has a sweet temperament. Pepper is notably calm, and she loves listening to classical music while resting. Currently, she is undergoing leash training due to her past life as a stray.
Danny
Three siblings were found dumped inside a dumpster in Thousand Palms. A good samaritans contacted us for their rescue.
Elora
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
Momma and her litter were found in Mecca, thanks to a nearby neighbor who reached out to us, we were able to provide a safe enviroment for Momma andher kittens so she could nurse them.
Gus
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.
Janet
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.
Jasper
After being surrendered by his owner following the loss of one of his siblings, Jasper and his remaining two siblings were brought in for much-needed medical care. We are delighted to report that Jasper has fully recuperated and is now ready to find his forever home. Jasper is known for his playful yet gentle nature with humans. He is an independent pup who prefers not to share his food. Jasper enjoys being held and has a knack for falling asleep in your arms.
Kallie
Pups were relinquished on the day of our adoption event on 5/11 they were abandoned near a mobile home out in Indio Hills.
Lucy
3-year-old tabby was rescued by a Good Samaritian following Hurricane Hilary. She gave birth to 6 kittens a fews days later, all whom have been adopted. Now it is Lucy's turn to find her furever home. Lucy is a great listener. She can be shy, but will come out of her shell once she is familiar and will be your best companion.
Luna
Luna
Momma and her litter were found in Mecca, thanks to a nearby neighbor who reached out to us, we were able to provide a safe enviroment for Momma andher kittens so she could nurse them.
Marlow
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.
Marshmallow
Initially shy, Marshmallow is poised to thrive in her new home with patience and understanding. Rescued alongside her sister from a high-kill shelter, they narrowly escaped the euthanized list.
Marvel
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, 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 and her sibling were found near a trailer home by two young highschoolers who thanks to them they survived. They bottled-fed the kittens but once they turned four weeks old they could no longer keep them due to financial hardship.
Penny
Pups were relinquished on the day of our adoption event on 5/11 they were abandoned near a mobile home out in Indio Hills.
Pickles
Pickles, a calm and gentle male, was discovered as a stray close to a Walmart. Initially reserved, he quickly becomes friendly once acquainted. Estimated to be around 4 or 5 years old by the vet, he enjoys the company of both dogs and people. He is leash-trained and sleeps in his crate at night. Pickles adores cuddling and would be a fantastic companion. Additionally, he has been neutered and microchipped.
Pumpkin
Three siblings were found dumped inside a dumpster in Thousand Palms. A good samaritans contacted us for their rescue.
Ruby
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.
Sandy
Sandy was found near a feral colony, she may have been dumped there. She is a sweetheart, very pretty and friendly.
Shrimp
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.
Sky
Sky was abandoned by a breeder. She is an independent and playful pup who enjoys romping around with other dogs and basking in the sun outdoors. With her boundless energy, she is a delightful bundle of joy.
Snickers
Snickers was found out near Thermal, her mom was deceseas when found. She may havebeen hit by a vehicle. She is a sweet corgi mix, playful and loving.
Snowball
Snowball and her sibling were found near a trailer home by two young highschoolers who thanks to them they survived. They bottled-fed the kittens but once they turned four weeks old they could no longer keep them due to financial hardship.
Spot
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.
Sunny
Meet the Team
Get to know the dedicated board members who make our work possible.
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
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
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
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.