Pets of the Week: Four Furry Friends Looking for Homes

"Wowie! Zowie here, looking for a cool new home. I was found as a stray with my friend Roxy. She’s been adopted, and I hope I’m next."

Zowie, as you can tell, is a sweet and friendly girl who loves to play. She’s thought to be a pit bull terrier, a dog known for utter devotion to people and a strong desire to please. Zowie is a favorite with OC Animal Care volunteers, who say she is very social and loves everyone. At 1 year old, she’s still a pup, with lots of energy that can be channeled into daily runs or walks or fun dog sports such as agility, rally or flyball. Her striking blue color is sure to attract attention.

To meet Zowie and see if she’s the perfect match for you, visit her at Orange County Animal Care, 561 The City Drive South, in Orange. Her ID number is A1076587.

Sweet Lucy was found as a stray, but it’s clear that she’s used to living in a home. Her favorite activities are cuddling and sitting on a lap. The approximately 6-year-old domestic shorthair with the striking tortoiseshell coat is already spayed and is looking forward to life in a calm and quiet home where she can enjoy afternoon naps and love from a family of her own. Lucy's at OC Animal Care as well, and her ID number is A1076817.

Looking for double the fun? Look no further than Ping and Pong, neutered male Pekingese siblings who were given up after 10 years because their owners were allergic to them. Too bad for them, but good luck for you if you choose to share your life with these entertaining dogs, who need a home together and still have good years ahead of them. Ping would be at home at a networking “meet and greet,” offering a big smile and a bouncy greeting to everyone he meets. Mellow Pong takes everything in stride and loves everyone he meets. If you have other pets, they’re cool with that. Their size is just right for any type of home: Ping weighs 11 pounds, Pong, 16 pounds. If you are new to dog ownership or would just like to establish a training relationship with them, they come with free in-home assistance and training classes from a certified professional dog trainer.

For more information, contact Maryanne with Shamrock Foundation at 714.270.4187 or flypupmom@gmail.com. Adoption application, contract and home check required. Adoption fee is $300 for both.

Pet trivia of the week: The term "tortoiseshell" is used to describe cats whose coats have mottled patches of orange or cream with chocolate, black or blue. This type of coat is also called "brindle." Torties, as they’re called for short, are usually female.

The Pekingese was a favored pet in the Chinese imperial court and was often so tiny that it could ride inside its owner’s long, flowing sleeves. The Peke is loyal and protective, needs little exercise and is content to be a companion in a quiet home.

Pet of the Week alumni report: Lady, , has been adopted. But Hamm, featured in the same column, is still looking for a home.