Meet Mariposa and Cassie — 2 very different shelter dogs who long for the same thing: home

The number of dog breeds boggles the mind and the variety of breeds that contribute to a much-loved mutt can be equally dizzying.

Yet, it’s the individual dog, not the lineage, that makes a cherished pet.

Mariposa and Cassie are wonderful examples — each ready to become a much-loved pet for the families they’re best suited for.

People-loving Cassie is a less-than-two-year-old, fifty-pound shepherd mix who longs for human companionship. She’s a great match for a family looking for a fun-loving dog whose eyes are alight with joy, whether it’s playing ball or giving and getting love.

She walks fairly well on leash and — being a food-motivated, people-pleaser — strives to understand what people want. Currently she’s learning a polite meet-and-greet and her basic commands.

In contrast, tender Mariposa is ideal for a calm household where a neglected dog can get a new lease on life.

One of several surrendered dogs, Mariposa’s a pit bull mix who was emotionally shut down, though since being at the shelter, she’s slowly rediscovering how wonderful life can be.

Her shy, hopeful tail wag says it all.

Though very different, Cassie and Mariposa long for the same thing — loving families who see their potential and will give them the guidance they need.

No matter what the breed, all dogs can learn with love, consistency and tasty rewards; Cassie will strive even harder to please her new people, while Mariposa will learn that she’s truly loved.

For more information about Cassie (ID No. 276046) or Mariposa (ID No. 273306), call the volunteer line at the San Luis Obispo County Animal Services shelter at 805-781-4400 or visit www.slocounty.ca.gov/aserv. The shelter is located at 885 Oklahoma Ave., off Highway 1, in San Luis Obispo.

The full-price adoption fee is $81 for cats and $115 for dogs, plus a $28 county license fee for dogs, if the adopters are San Luis Obispo County residents.

The adoption fee includes a new collar, a spay or neuter operation, basic vaccinations, a microchip and eligibility for a free veterinary check within San Luis Obispo County. Cats also are tested for feline leukemia virus (FeLV) and feline immunodeficiency virus, and adopters receive a carrier.

This story was originally published March 25, 2022 at 5:00 AM with the headline "Meet Mariposa and Cassie — 2 very different shelter dogs who long for the same thing: home."