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.
Our animals are examined by a licensed veterinarian and then receive daily care from our volunteers. 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 Pet Rescue is a volunteer-run rescue and it make take a few days for us to respond to your inquiry or review your application.

Dawn

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Dawn

Kitten – Female

Feline-ality: Purple – Lovebug

About Me: With my sweet face, I’m impossible not to fall in love with! I can be a bit shy when meeting new people and may need some time to feel comfortable, but beneath that cautious exterior is a gentle, loving kitten who loves to play and cuddle with her siblings! I’d do best in a home with another friendly kitten or adult to give me more confidence.

Dog Compatible: Yes

Comet

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Comet

Kitten – Male

Feline-ality: Orange – Personal Assistant

About Me: Like other orange tabbies, I’m friendly and easy going. I’m often on the move looking for fun, snacks, or a cuddle! I love spending time with people and other furry friends in my foster home, and would be thrilled to have a feline friend to play with in my forever home.

Dog Compatible: Yes

Dusty

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Dusty

Kitten – Male

Feline-ality: Orange – Sidekick

About Me: If you are looking for a companion to spend time with, I’m your guy! I’m an easy-going kitten who enjoys wrestling with his siblings and climbing to new heights. Come meet me!

Dog Compatible: Yes

Rose

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Rose

Kitten – Female

Feline-ality: Green – MVP

About Me: I’m Rose, named for the little pink spot on my nose. And some may say that I have a rosy personality as I’m naturally cheerful and sweet towards others. See you soon!

Dog Compatible: Yes

Joy

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Joy

Kitten – Female

Feline-ality: Orange – Sidekick

About Me: I’m a sweet, wide-eyed kitten who has a joyful and easy-going personality which is typical of blue cream tabbies. I’m sure to fit in with any family that adopts me.

Dog Compatible: Yes

Buster

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Buster Brown

Adult – Neutered Male

Feline-ality: Orange – Executive

About Me: I’m a super friendly, confident guy who is just looking for attention and love! Like other brown tabbies, I really like people and often greet the volunteers when they come in. I’m also curious and like to explore the world. While I was left behind at a rental property, I’m optimistic that I’ll find a forever family.

Dog Compatible: Yes

Heron

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Heron

Older Kitten – Neutered Male

Feline-ality: Orange – Personal Assistant

About Me: Hi everyone, I’m Heron! I’m a super friendly, confident cat who came from a larger cat colony where I didn’t get much care and even had a scratched cornea! But like the symbol of a heron, I have a lot of self-determination and perseverance and just knew I’d find a better place! I can’t wait to find a loving family.

Dog Compatible: Yes

Tootsie

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Tootsie

Young Adult – Spayed Female

Feline-ality: Purple – Lovebug

About Me: I’m a petite gal who is sweet and great with other cats. While I enjoy cuddles, I’m also content doing my own thing. If you are looking for a little darling, come to the rescue and ask for me!

Dog Compatible: Yes

Tufts

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Tufts

Young Adult – Neutered Male

Feline-ality: Orange – Sidekick

About Me: If you haven’t guessed it, yep, I have tufts! In my case, I have silver tufts near the base of my ears. I’m a mellow fellow who spends his days hanging out with my cat friends at the rescue.

Dog Compatible: Yes

Boomer

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Boomer

Adult – Neutered Male

Feline-ality: Orange – Sidekick

About Me: I’m looking for my person! I recently arrived at the rescue after my previous owner moved into a nursing home. I might be a little shy when I first meet you as I lived a pretty isolated life. But I warm up quickly and enjoy sitting beside you and playing too!

Dog Compatible: Likely

Jasper

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Jasper

Older Kitten – Neutered Male

Feline-ality: Orange – Sidekick

About Me: I’m Jasper, named for the cartoon panel character Jasper the Bear. And like my namesake, I’m clever, playful, and adventurous. As I came from an outdoor colony when I was a kitten, I’m still gaining confidence with people. I’d love to find a home with another cat friend!

Dog Compatible: Yes

Echo

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Echo

Older Kitten – Spayed Female

Feline-ality: Green – Leader of the Band

About Me: I’m an adventurous spirit who loves playtime and exploration with boundless enthusiasm. I thrive on interaction and would do wonderfully in an energetic household that can match my playful vibe.

Dog Compatible: Yes

Black Caviar

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Black Caviar

Adult – Spayed Female

Feline-ality: Purple – Lovebug

About Me: Friendly, affectionate, curious, and mellow kitten who loves to be with other cats. I have mild special needs as I have Megaesophagus. This means I do best with just canned food, a daily antacid, and a tilted food dish that brings my food up just a bit higher. I’ve probably had this since birth and it might get better as I get older but I don’t let it get me down!

Dog Compatible: Yes

Emmylou

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Emmylou

Older Kitten – Female

Feline-ality: Green – Party Animal

About Me: I might be petite but I have a big personality lots of confidence! I love having fun either by myself or with my kitten friends. And I love to cuddle! Come meet me! 

Dog Compatible: Yes

Ajak

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Ajak

Older Kitten – Neutered Male

Feline-ality: Green – Leader of the Band

About Me: I’m and energetic and confident guy who gets along famously with every cat but maintains a dignified aloofness from humans until I decide it’s time for attention. I’m a self-assured gentleman who would fit perfectly in just about any home and still be myself.

Dog Compatible: Yes

Roman

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Roman

Adult – Neutered Male

Feline-ality: Orange – Personal Assistant

About Me: I’m a super friendly, handsome guy who is kind, curious, and just an overall good companion! I get along well with others and even like to be brushed!

Dog Compatible: Yes

Mr Baguette

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Mr. Baguette

Adult – Neutered Male

Feline-ality: Orange – Sidekick

About Me: It’s Mr. B here, still waiting for my forever home. I’m a friendly guy who likes to hang out with his people and can usually be found twirling around your legs and looking for pets. I’d do fine in a home without another furry friend but if there is a resident cat, I’d prefer that it is a female. Hope to see you soon!

Dog Compatible: Likely

Starr

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Starr

Older Kitten – Spayed Female

Feline-ality: Purple – Private Investigator

About Me: Don’t let my petite size fool you – I’m a torbie and have a big personality. I’ll be shy when I first meet you but once I feel comfortable, my sweet nature shines through. And like the comic book character Brenda Starr, I’m fearless and determined. With patience and understanding, you’ll discover a gentle, loving companion who enjoys being part of the family while still maintaining her independent spirit.

Dog Compatible: Likely

Hobbes

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Hobbes

Older Kitten – Neutered Male

Feline-ality: Purple – Lovebug

About Me: Hi everyone, it’s me Hobbes! Like the comic book character, I’m an orange-striped cat who will be your constant companion. I love cuddling and snuggling up close to get all your affection. I’d love to find my forever home and bring my friend Calvin with me!

Dog Compatible: Likely

Calvin

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Calvin

Older Kitten – Neutered Male

Feline-ality: Orange – Sidekick

About Me: Beneath my mischievous eyes, I’m a deeply sensitive, kind-hearted guy just like my comic book character. According to my foster mom, I’m incredibly affectionate and love to snuggle. And when I’m not cuddling, I’m looking forward to mealtime or a snack!

Dog Compatible: Likely

Torchy

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Torchy

Older Kitten – Spayed Female

Feline-ality: Orange – Executive

About Me: Like the comic book character Torchy Brown, I’m a gal who has a little bit of spunk and spice. I’m a bit independent and appreciate people who will give me a little space and let me get to know you first. If you are looking for a torbie who has a big personality, come meet me!

Dog Compatible: Likely

Moon

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Moon

Older Kitten – Neutered Male

Feline-ality: Orange – Sidekick

About Me: If you are looking for a kitten who is out of this world, come meet me, Moon! I’m a super cute kitten with Turkish van-like markings. I’m a happy guy who is eager to please you with my sweet nature. I spend my days exploring my surroundings with my siblings and when I’m tired, I become a purring machine that cuddles up in your lap! I promise that I’ll love you to the moon and back!

Dog Compatible: Yes

Hazelnut

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Hazelnut

Older Kitten – Spayed Female

Feline-ality: Orange – Sidekick

About Me: Hi, I’m Hazelnut named for my little brown nose that looks like it has been dusted with Nutella! Like my siblings, I’m an easy going, friendly gal who loves people. You’ll often find me playing with my cat friends at the rescue and then taking a nap before starting all over again!

Dog Compatible: Yes

Luna

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Luna

Older Kitten – Spayed Female

Feline-ality: Green – MVP

About Me: I’m Luna from the moon kitten litter! Like my namesake, I have a shining personality. I’m a sweet, friendly kitten who is easy going and will fit in with any family that adopts me.

Dog Compatible: Yes

Biscotti

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Biscotti

Older Kitten – Neutered Male

Feline-ality: Green – Party Animal

About Me: Like the biscotti cookie, I’m a perfect companion for any family! I love to play with other cats and climb to new heights. And my affectionate, snuggly side makes me an all-around favorite! I’m excited to find my forever home!

Dog Compatible: Yes

Loft

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Loft

Older Kitten – Neutered Male

Feline-ality: Green – MVP

About Me: If you are looking for a super cuddly and soft fluffy kitten, come meet me, Loft! Some of my favorite things to do are cuddling up on a warm lap or taking a nap by the window as the sun streams through. Come meet me!

Dog Compatible: Yes

Alcove

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Alcove

Older Kitten – Spayed Female

Feline-ality: Purple – Lovebug

About Me: Hi big world, I’m Alcove! I’m a petite blue tabby tuxedo but have a big, brave personality. I’d like to join a family that has another cat friend.

Dog Compatible: Yes

Sardi

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Sardi

Kitten – Female

Feline-ality: Orange – Executive

About Me: I’m a pretty calico with a personality to match! Like other calicos, I’m bold and confident and love to be where the action is – following my foster mom around, playing with my siblings, or peeking into the refrigerator during feeding time. See you soon!

Dog Compatible: Yes

Gwen

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Gwen

Older Kitten – Female

Feline-ality: Purple – Lovebug

About Me: I’m a stunning gal who has a fluffy coat and carries myself with a soft energy. I’m a gentle soul who would thrive in a home where I can be admired for my beauty while still enjoying plenty of quiet cuddles.

Dog Compatible: Yes

Lanai

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Lanai

Adult – Spayed Female

Feline-ality: Orange – Personal Assistant

About Me: I’m a very friendly, easy-going lady who is kind to everyone I meet – people, cats, and dogs – even though I haven’t always known kindness. I came to the rescue as a stray who had been separated from my babies. And I had been shot with a bb gun! Fortunately, kind people helped me and reunited me with my babies. I’m now ready to find my forever home. The volunteers at the rescue are excited for me to find a loving, comfortable home.

Dog Compatible: Yes

Gambit

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Gambit

Older Kitten – Neutered Male

Feline-ality: Green – MVP

About Me: I have the charming, good looks of my card-flinging namesake. I’m a handsome boy who prefers to sit back and watch my energetic siblings play while I calculate my next move. I’m a sweet future lap cat who loves being scooped up for cuddles.

Dog Compatible: Yes

Yelena

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Yelena

Older Kitten – Spayed Female

Feline-ality: Orange – Sidekick

About Me: A little shy, I find courage when playing alongside my buddy Ajak, making us quite the dynamic duo. Once I get to know you, I’m full of fun and ready to run through the house chasing imaginary spies.

Dog Compatible: Yes

Mystique

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Mystique

Older Kitten – Spayed Female

Feline-ality: Orange – Sidekick

About Me: Much like my shapeshifting namesake, I’m a sweet girl who will adapt to any situation with my relaxed, chill demeanor. Once I feel safe in my new surroundings, my true warmth shines through and I’ll settle into cozy naps by your side.

Dog Compatible: Yes

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.

Location

126 West Bayfield Street, Suite 3
PO Box 294|
Washburn, WI 54891

Contact

Preferred Contact: @ Email Us

Alternative Contact: 715-513-6106

Hours
By Appointment Only

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