Available Animals

There are so many reasons to adopt a rescue animal. All of our animals at Helping PAWS Pet Rescue are in need of a second chance. By choosing to adopt, you will give one of them a new life in a loving home.

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Page Quick Links:    Cats    Dogs     Feline-ality®     Pet Care & Health

Before You Begin

We are seeking the best match for our animals. As such, we consider all applications for a particular animal and do not operate on a first-come-first-serve basis. The decision to adopt is an important one which we take very seriously. We approve adopters who have excellent veterinary history which includes annual wellness exams and preventive care for their pets, as well as immediate medical attention for illness or injury. 

Finding the Perfect Pet Can Be Easy, But There’s Lots to Consider!

Thank you for considering adoption or fostering! The decision to adopt is an important one which we take very seriously. We approve adopters who have excellent veterinary history which includes annual wellness exams and preventive care for their pets, as well as immediate medical attention for illness or injury.
All of our animals are examined and cared for by a licensed veterinarian. As you learn about our available animals, please consider your lifestyle and how this may affect the animal you choose. We recommend that you also learn more about our adoption and foster processes.
While we typically have cats available for adoption, we at times also have dogs, horses, rabbits, birds, and other domestic animals. Check back often to see who is available.
Find Your Match
Here at Helping PAWS Pet Rescue, Meet Your Match! To help match adopters and animals more closely, we have adopted the Feline-ality® Assessment that many rescues use. There are Purple cats, Orange cats, and Green cats, and we recognize that some cats can match more than one description!
Purple Cats
There are three types of Purple Cats:

Private Investigator – These cats work undercover to keep an eye on you and your family. These cats are skittish and shy and startle easily. If you need a cat who knows how to stay out of trouble and will always keep your secrets, this is the cat personality for you. 

Secret Admirer – When it comes to relationships, these cats are very level-headed. They don’t leap in paws first, but give them a little time, and they’ll shower you with purrs, head-butts, and plenty of lap time. In the meantime, you may not see a lot of them but they’ll be thinking about you and admiring you from a distance. 

Love Bug – Do you seek affection from your cat? These cats love affection, love being pet, and are purring machines! They are looking for an adopter who enjoys quiet times and togetherness.

Orange Cats
There are three types of Orange Cats:

Executive – These cats are busy cats. They first have to check out what’s happening out the window. And then look in closets or cabinets. And then take a nap. And then socialize with whomever comes by. 

Sidekick – Like all sidekicks, these cats are just good company. They like attention, but also like solitude. They are steady companions who will travel with you on the road of life. 

Personal Assistant – Are you working on the computer? Let them press the keys? Reading a paper? They’ll hold down the pages for you. Watching TV? They’ll join you and sit in your lap. They’ll even help you with your chores, and then will relax with you when done.  You’ll wonder how you ever managed without them. 

Green Cats
There are three types of Green Cats:

MVP – These are savvy cats who are pretty unflappable. While they don’t mind entertaining themselves, they like a companion and a nice scratch behind the ears. If you are looking for a resourceful addition to your team, adopt a Most Valuable Pussycat! 

Party Animal – These cats are on a mission and love to play and explore and test their limits! They’ll play with you but will also make a toy out of anything – pencils, paper, potatoes! If you’re looking for some laughs, think about adopting a party animal. 

Leader of the Band – These cats do everything in a big way. They not only like to be in the middle of things, but they like to lead. While they are adventurous cats, they’ll make plenty of time to show you their affectionate side. 

Available Animals

Cats

Please Note: Helping Paws is a volunteer-run rescue so it may take a few days for us to respond to your inquiry or review your application.

Spritzy

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Spritzy

Young Adult – Spayed Female

Feline-ality: Orange – Sidekick

About Me: Like my friend Julep, I came from a rescue in South Dakota and am still waiting for a forever home! In foster care, I get along well with other cats and people too as long as they don’t hold me (I’m not a fan). I’m a lively kitten who loves to play, run, and explore. Come meet me so I can add some sparkle to your life!

Dog Compatible: Yes

Tansy

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Tansy

Young Adult – Spayed Female

Feline-ality: Green – MVP

About Me: Hi everyone! My foster family thinks I’m just about the sweetest cat around! I’ve been with them a year now making me the longest resident at Helping PAWS. See, I’m what the veterinarian calls a “midly special-needs” kitty but that doesn’t get me down! I was recently diagnosed with irritable bowel syndrome. This means that while my stool is “regular,” I sometimes flare up and have a little leakage. Luckily, we’ve learned how to manage my condition pretty well with good food and some medicine which I’ll likely need to be on long-term. I’m looking for a family that will love me no matter what and provide me a stress free home with other animals that like me. Are you that family? I promise to give you lots of love back!

Dog Compatible: Yes

Oriole

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Oriole

Older Kitten – Female

Feline-ality: Green – MVP

About Me: If you like tuxedo cats, I’m the one for you! While I’m petite, I have a big personality and like just about everyone. I like to spend my days playing, exploring, and cuddling with anyone who will have me. I’d love to find a home with my brother Downy. As the saying goes, birds of a feather flock together!

Dog Compatible: Yes

Downy

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Downy

Older Kitten – Neutered Male

Feline-ality: Green – Leader of the Band

About Me: Hi everyone, I’m Downy – named after the woodpecker’s shiny black color and because my fur is quite plush like a down coat. What can I tell you about me? I love to look out the windows at the birds, snuggle with my sister, and play! Chasing a ball around and around is one of my favorite things to do but I still haven’t been successful at getting the ball out of the toy. Maybe you can adopt me and we can figure it out together? Hope to see you soon!

Dog Compatible: Yes

Weeza

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Weeza

Older Adult – Spayed Female

Special Needs: FIV+

Feline-ality: Purple – Lovebug

About Me: I know it isn’t usually good to lay all of your cards on the table but what do I have to lose? I’m a super friendly, purring machine that is looking for a comfortable home where I can get lots of people time, healthy food, and excellent veterinary care which is all important to keep a FIV positive cat like me going strong. I’ll spend all day beside you or in your lap if you’ll adopt me.

Dog Compatible: Yes

Aspen

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Aspen

Young Adult – Neutered Male

Feline-ality: Green – Party Animal

About Me: Hi everyone! If you are looking for a cat that likes to have fun and keep you laughing with his playful antics, you’ve come to the right place! It just so happens that I’m looking for a soft place to land after spending the first few months of my life outdoors. I’m still getting used to being picked up but am making progress. I’d do best in a home with other cats. Hope to see you soon!

Dog Compatible: Yes

Pippin

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Pippin

Older Kitten – Neutered Male

Feline-ality: Green – Leader of the Band

About Me: Hi folks, it’s Pippin here! And I love just about everyone and everything! I came to the rescue several months ago and have grown up in a foster home and can’t wait until I have a home of my own. Like my friend Tansy, I had some mild special needs but in my case, I only went #2 every few days. Luckily with some medicine, an active lifestyle, and time to grow up, I’m pretty “regular” now. I’d love to join an active home with fun people and other animals. See you soon!

Dog Compatible: Yes

Flaming June

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Flaming June

Adult – Spayed Female

Feline-ality: Orange – Sidekick

About Me: If you love torbies and their confident personalities, I’m the cat for you! I was recently rescued from the cold outdoors and am enjoying greeting everyone as they visit the rescue. As soon as you sit down, I’ll wander over to cuddle with you or perch on your shoulders despite my adult size. I’d probably like a house without another cat friend so I can have you all to myself.

Dog Compatible: Likely

Tallulah

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Tallulah

Older Kitten – Female

Feline-ality: Orange – Sidekick

About Me: Like the Tallulah Gorge, I’m a little rough around the edges but give me a chance, and I’ll show you my inviting personality. I’m a petite cat and will likely remain that way as I didn’t get much attention when I was a young kitten on the farm. I love playing with other cats and am doing well with getting to know people in my foster home. Give me a chance!

Dog Compatible: Yes

Blue

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Blue

Older Adult – Neutered Male

Feline-ality: Orange – Sidekick

About Me: Hi everyone, I’m Blue and I came from Puerto Rico! Why am I named Blue? It’s a long story but basically another rescue learned that I needed some special care for my ears as I have a condition called Ceruminous cystomatosis (which make my ears look a little blue in color). So, they called Helping PAWS Pet Rescue. I’ve had a couple of surgeries now and am doing much better – I can now hear as my ears are less clogged with cysts. I’m looking for a home with only people or people and dogs as I do not like other cats (I think they are prey). I’d love to find a foster home while I’m waiting to be adopted since I don’t like other cats. Please give me a chance!

Dog Compatible: Yes

Isa

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Isa

Adult – Spayed Female

Feline-ality: Orange – Sidekick

About Me: I’m Isa, named for ice because I came to the rescue as an outdoor cat this winter. While I’m friendly and curious, I can be a bit shy as I’m still building confidence around people. I’d do best in a home with another confident cat. Hope to see you soon!

Dog Compatible: Likely

Dixie

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Dixie

Adult – Spayed Female

Feline-ality: Orange – Executive

About Me: Hi everyone, I’m Dixie and if you are looking for a friendly and confident middle-aged cat, I’m looking for you! Did you know that Dixie is a name of French origin that means from the south in the U.S. and was built on the ten dollar bill called the Dix? I think this may fit me as I came from a farm south of Washburn and I’ve probably had at least 10 kittens over my lifetime! I’ve long been ready for a comfortable indoor home where I’ll receive lots of pets and good food.

Dog Compatible: Likely

Rosa

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Rosa

Older Adult – Spayed Female

Feline-ality: Purple – Lovebug

About Me: While I’m an older cat at 14 years, I still have a lot of love to give and am hoping to find my last forever home where I can live comfortably. If you like a sweet, friendly tortoiseshell cats who enjoys people but is content doing her own thing, I’m your lady.

Dog Compatible: Likely

Dolly

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Dolly

Adult – Spayed Female

Feline-ality: Purple – Lovebug

About Me: While I’ll be a little shy when we first meet, I’m warming up quickly at the rescue. I’m a kind and gentle cat that would do best in a quiet home. If you like pretty black and white tuxedo cats, come meet me and I’ll show you what a doll I am.

Dog Compatible: Likely

Marcel

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Marcel

Adult – Neutered Male

Feline-ality: Orange – Sidekick

About Me: If you think it looks like I’ve been through a rough life, you’d be right! I recently arrived at the rescue after being the resident tomcat at a farm and I have the stud cheeks to prove it. Did you know that these jowls are fleshy areas that develop due to testosterone? I’ve been told that my cheeks used to send a signal to other intact males as well as ladies of my physical abilities. Luckily, I don’t have to worry about that anymore and my cheeks will go down in time. I’m super friendly, love pets, and have gotten along with everyone at the rescue so far.

Dog Compatible: Yes

Dilly

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DIlly

Adult – Neutered Male

Feline-ality: Orange – Sidekick

About Me: I’m a friendly, mellow guy who has an easy going personality. I came from a large outdoor cat family so am excited to have a family of my own and more comfortable digs for me Dilly! If you like handsome black cats, I’m the guy for you.

Dog Compatible: Likely

Ready to Adopt or Foster?

Your next step is to learn about the process and complete our application. Getting approved does not obligate you to adopt but helps streamline the process.

Available Animals

Dogs

Please Note: Helping Paws is a volunteer-run rescue so it may take a few days for us to respond to your inquiry or review your application.

At this time, Helping PAWS Pet Rescue has no dogs available for adoption.

Check availability at our partner rescues Chequamegon Humane Association and Catkins Animal Rescue, both located in Wisconsin.

Wellness

Pet Care & Health

Tips for All Pets

Food and Water
  • Here at Helping PAWS, we feed a measured amount of dry food and canned food mixed with a bit of water for optimal dental health and kidney health. We do NOT free feed.
  • Always provide continuous access to fresh water.
  • Treats should be no more than 5% of the diet.
Enrichment/Toys
  • To keep your pet stimulated and at a healthy weight, interactive toys are a must!
Grooming
  • Regular brushing helps reduce shedding and hairballs (cats), and helps keep your pet clean. Many cats and dogs really enjoy this!
  • Regularly trim nails to help prevent a nail from curling and growing into the foot pad.
Annual Exams and Vaccines
  • Your pet should see its veterinarian at least once a year for an examination and annual shots, and immediately if he/she is ill or injured.

Tips for Cats

Food: Remember that cats require taurine, an essential amino acid, for heart and eye health. Be sure to check the food label.

Litterbox and Litter – Number of litterboxes, location, cleanliness, and type of litter is key to your cat adopting good litterbox habits. Rule of thumb: Provide at least 1 box per cat. Locate the litterbox in an easy-to-find location that is quiet. Scoop the litterbox at least once/day, and wash regularly. Use a litter material that your cat likes. And remember that not all cats will feel comfortable in a hooded litterbox. If your cat isn’t using its litterbox, bring it to the veterinarian as he/she may have a medical condition.

Scratching Post or Pad – Cats like to scratch, which helps remove old outer nail sheaths. Provide your cat with a sturdy scratching post at least 3 feet high, covered with a rough material. Scratching pads are also an option. Most cats will not scratch furniture if provided a proper place to scratch. If you consider declawing, learn more about it first and find a veterinarian that uses a laser which is more humane.

Houseplants and Cats – Many cats can’t resist chewing on plants. Many plants are toxic irritants, and cause inflammation of the skin, mouth, and stomach. Other plants may have a systemic toxic effect and damage a cat’s organs. Learn which plants are okay to keep around and which plants are not.

Cat Carrier – Ideal for safely transporting your cat to the veterinarian for annual exams and vaccines.

Tips for Dogs

Exercise – Dogs need exercise to burn calories, stimulate their minds, and stay healthy. Exercise also tends to help dogs avoid boredom, which can lead to destructive behaviors. Individual exercise needs vary based on breed, sex, age, and level of health. Follow local leashing laws. And remember to pick up poop to protect water quality, wildlife health, and people’s shoes!

Grooming – And most dogs don’t need to be bathed more than a few times a year. Brushing your dog’s teeth is also a good dental health practice.

Fleas and Ticks – Daily inspections of your dog for fleas and ticks during the warm seasons are important. There are several methods of flea and tick control; speak with your veterinarian to find the right one.

Licensing and Identification – Follow your community’s licensing regulations. Use an ID tab of implanted microchip to help secure your dog’s return should he/she become lost.

Helping PAWS is a 501(c)(3) organization. We are primarily a volunteer-run organization. If you are interested in joining our volunteer team, please contact us.

126 West Bayfield Street, Suite 3

PO Box 294

Washburn, WI 54891

Preferred Contact: @ Email Us

Alternative Contact: 715-513-6106

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By Appointment Only

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