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
Adopt now!
Archie
Chihuahua
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.
Aspen
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.
Bubbles
Bubbles is a seven-year-old English Bulldog who was rescued after a lifetime of breeding. She’s endured a lot of pain, and now she’s finally learning to enjoy life as a dog. Bubbles loves playing with other dogs and has made some great friends. Her snoring is absolutely adorable!She’ll need a special adopter who can provide the ongoing care she requires, including regular vet visits for urine cultures. Bubbles recently underwent surgery to treat a bladder infection that had been ongoing for many years. Despite everything she’s been through, she’s ready to find a loving home where she can finally be happy.
Buddy
Buddy was found as a stray after the Fourth of July, and his owners never came forward to claim him. He had a fractured radius when he was rescued. Buddy is a cuddle bug who craves love and attention. He'll be your loyal companion, always wanting to stay by your side. He deserves a loving home where he can receive all the care and attention he needs.
Buster
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.
CeeCee
Cecee is a 7-8 month old puppy who gets along well with other dogs and cats. Although initially timid, she warms up with a bit of reassurance.
Courage
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.
Daizy
Daizy and her sister Macy were abandoned at the Salton Sea Recreation Center. They survived thanks to the nearby lake and the kindness of visitors who fed them. They are estimated to be 6-8 months old. These Shepard mixes love people and other dogs and cats. They are excellent protectors, alerting you if anyone is nearby.
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.
Feisty
Fiesty is one of six siblings from an accidental litter. We have spayed their mother and are now seeking wonderful and loving homes for them. Fiesty is initially shy but is a sweetheart who craves love and affection. She is undergoing potty-training.
Felix
Felix, a 3.5 month-old tuxedo kitten, is set to captivate with his sleek black coat and endearing eyes that will surely melt your heart.
Gryffen
Meet Gryffen, a 10-month-old Pitbull who was found on the streets of Indio. From what we've observed, it seems she may have been abused, as she’s fearful of certain things. She’s still learning to enjoy being a dog, including playing with a ball. Gryffen has plenty of energy and, as a young pup, she’ll need proper and gradual introductions to get along well with other dogs.
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.
Jerry
Jerry, a 10-month-old Chihuahua, was abandoned in Thermal, where he spent several days fending for himself. Malnourished and in need of help, a Good Samaritan reached out to us, and we were able to rescue him. Jerry craves attention and experiences some separation anxiety. He gets along well with other dogs but tends to chase cats.
Keli
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.
Lili
Lili is a 4-month-old puppy who was found wandering the desert with her mother and six siblings. The mother is a Shepard and Lab mix. A Good Samaritan noticed the mother have multiple litters and called animal control, but they only took the puppies, leaving their mother behind. The mother, seen with a male red-nose Pitbull, became pregnant again. The Good Samaritan followed the mother, which led her to the seven puppies. Their father was hit by a vehicle and did not survive.
Lola The Husky
Lola is a 2-year-old Husky who has faced some challenges despite her young age. She’s a playful and goofy girl who also enjoys lounging around all day. Lola loves water, swimming, and tossing toys around (though she's still learning to bring them back). She’s kennel trained, knows how to sit, and is potty trained. In her previous home, she lived with three other dogs, and she gets along well with other dogs with slow introductions.
Lucy
Lucy is a 4-month-old puppy who was found wandering the desert with her mother and six siblings. The mother is a Shepard/Lab/Pitbul mix. A Good Samaritan noticed the mother have multiple litters and called animal control, but they only took the puppies, leaving their mother behind. The mother, seen with a male red-nose Pitbull, became pregnant again. The Good Samaritan followed the mother, which led her to the seven puppies. Their father was hit by a vehicle and did not survive.
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.
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.
Mia
Mia is a 4-month-old puppy who was found wandering the desert with her mother and six siblings. The mother is a Shepard and Lab mix. A Good Samaritan noticed the mother have multiple litters and called animal control, but they only took the puppies, leaving their mother behind. The mother, seen with a male red-nose Pitbull, became pregnant again. The Good Samaritan followed the mother, which led her to the seven puppies. Their father was hit by a vehicle and did not survive.
Molly
Molly is a 1.5-year-old black and white beauty with a sweet, charming personality. A dedicated young mother, she was rescued from a shelter after battling upper respiratory infections alongside her three kittens. Now fully recovered, Molly is ready for adoption. Her affectionate side shines once she feels comfortable in her new environment.
Olly
Ollie is a sweet and gentle dog who loves to relax on the couch and watch TV. He is great with people and children. Ollie had a traumatic expereince of being attacked by a large dog. Due to this, a proper introduction with larger dogs will be needed, Ollie is full of energy and enjoys spending time outdoors.
Oreo
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.
Oreoo
Oreo,an 11-month-old puppy, rescued from the streets of Mexico. She was found malnourished and pregnant. Thankfully, we were able to save her. She is a loving and wonderful companion who gets along well with cats and dogs. She is a cuddle bug.
Peludita
Peludita is one of six siblings from an accidental litter. We have spayed their mother and are now seeking wonderful and loving homes for them. Peludita is initially shy but is a sweetheart who craves love and affection. She is undergoing potty-training.
Rocket Raccoon
Rocket Raccoon is a 3-month-old puppy who looks like a miniature Rottweiler and is bursting with energy. He had a rough start in like, found abandoned in a shoebox on the streets of Mexico with a skin disease. Fortunately, he received proper veterinary care. Rocket is playful, and his little bunny-like hops are adorable. He's teething and already potty trained.
Shelby
Shelby is a 4-month-old puppy who was found wandering the desert with her mother and six siblings. The mother is a Shepard/Lab/Pitbul mix. A Good Samaritan noticed the mother have multiple litters and called animal control, but they only took the puppies, leaving their mother behind. The mother, seen with a male red-nose Pitbull, became pregnant again. The Good Samaritan followed the mother, which led her to the seven puppies. Their father was hit by a vehicle and did not survive.
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.
Simba
Meet Simba, a friendly 3-4 month-old tabby who adores people and children. He and his sibling were rescued by a Good Samaritan when they were just a few weeks old. Now, Simba is ready to find his loving forever home.
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.
Sophie
Sophie and her sibling Tom were discovered by a Good Samaritan at a motel near Indio. They’re both affectionate and love to play. Now, they’re ready to find their forever home.
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.
Starbucks
Starbucks, an 11-month-old Chihuahua, spent his entire life outdoors, even in extreme temperatures of 118°F. When we found him, his leg was bleeding, and we learned that his owners had accidentally run him over with their car but did not seek medical care. When we spoke to them, they initially wanted to surrender him but then claimed he wasn’t their dog. We rescued Starbucks right away and got him the medical care he needed. He has since made a full recovery. Starbucks is a cuddly dog who loves attention, gets along well with small dogs and cats, and despite his age, is full of energy and loves to run!*
Tom
Tom and his sibling Sophie were discovered by a Good Samaritan at a motel near Indio. They’re both affectionate and love to play. Now, they’re ready to find their forever home.
Zandy
Zandy 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. Zandy was found on the streets, and no one came forward to claim her.
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.
Join Our Mission
Help us provide a forever home to every pet.
Desert Paws Sanctuary
laura@desertpawssanctuary.org
