MESSI* - Belgian Shepherd Malinois and Catahoula Leopard Dog Dog for Adoption in Santa Cruz, California

GOOOOOOAAAAAAAAL! Meet the Fifa superstars litter! These Malinois Catahoula mix pups came to the Shelter as a part of an accidental litter. They have previously lived primarily outdoors but are social, soft and ready to learn to be their adopter’s sidekick. Potty training, age appropriate socialization, and leash walking are all on the list of to-do’s for the next adopter. A home with other animals may be a fit with a slow, thoughtful introduction. Any resident dogs should meet at the Shelter prior to adoption. These athletes are ready for pre-adoption. Come meet them, fall in love and take them home after their spay/neuter surgeries. The Santa Cruz County Animal Shelter Foundation is now offering “Pawsitivity Bucks” with every dog adoption. This $200 training voucher is a way for newly adopted canines and their guardians to connect with local positive reinforcement based behavior consultants and get their relationship started off on the right paw! Please note: Our Santa Cruz location’s Shelter hours are 11-6pm, 7 days a week! Although clients can walk through and see any animals in their kennels during open hours, we end “meet and greets” (aka meeting an animal out of the kennel) at 4:30pm every day. If you’d like to meet an animal out of the kennel, please arrive before 4:00pm to allow for time to discuss individual animals and meet them

The Belgian Shepherd Malinois is a versatile and intelligent working dog breed known for its agility, loyalty, and protective nature. Originating from Belgium, these medium-sized dogs have a distinctive short coat in shades of fawn with a black mask. Malinois excel in various roles such as military, police, search and rescue, and as loyal family companions. With proper training and socialization, the Belgian Shepherd Malinois thrives on mental stimulation and physical activity to channel its high energy levels effectively.

The Catahoula Leopard Dog, a unique and versatile breed originally from Louisiana, is known for its striking coat patterns resembling a leopard. These dogs are esteemed for their intelligence, loyalty, and exceptional working abilities. With a strong instinct for herding and tracking, they excel in diverse roles such as hunting, herding, and search and rescue. Renowned for their protective nature and affection towards their families, Catahoula Leopard Dogs make devoted companions for owners committed to providing them with proper training and stimulation.

The Santa Cruz County Animal Shelter is a non-profit Joint Powers Authority (EIN 90-0039494) serving the County of Santa Cruz,...