LI's Adorable Adoptables is a weekly column by Allison Matos, a lifelong Long Island resident who has been advocating animal adoption since 2012. Allison's weekly posts highlight local animals in need of adoption, and cover general animal welfare topics as well.

Rufus is adorably breathtaking! This 3 year old, Olde English Bulldog came to the Town of Hempstead Animal Shelter as a stray after being found loose on the streets. Story goes that this sweet boy’s family moved away and left him on the street to fend for himself. Thankfully, a neighbor called the shelter and he is thankfully waiting safely for another chance at a forever home.

Rufus is super friendly with strangers, and is always wiggling his little stubby tail. He seems housebroken and even knows multiple commands. Rufus is being recommended for a home with kids 17 and up and also needs to be in a solo pet home. If you think your home is the right fit for Rufus, please call for more information: 516-785-5220 or come him and all the wonderful animals at the Town of Hempstead Animal Shelter located at 3320 Beltagh Avenue, Wantagh NY 11793.

Right next door at Last Hope Animal Rescue you can meet Deagon and Merlin.  Deagon is a very unique and sweet looking mini Aussie mix from Kentucky.  Deagon is a special boy who comes from a hoarder/abuse situation and is just a bit shy. The good news is that thanks to the love and caring he’s receiving from Last Hope volunteers, this little guy is coming along very nicely, and is now ready to find his forever home. For more information, contact Last Hope or better yet, pop in and meet Deagon today! 

If you’re a fan or gorgeous cats, well Merlin is the boy for you.  This ridiculously handsome all white kitty was born this past April, and is now ready to find his forever home.  Merlin is an adorable, playful, and lovable boy rescued by a concerned citizen with his 3 litter mates from a rough beginning in life.  Home fostered and provided with excellent care and socialization, Merlin and his siblings are love bugs looking forward to finding their Forever homes! Anyone or two of them will make an awesome addition to your life! For more information, check out Merlin’s webpage.

Please remember that if you can’t adopt, try and donate much needed items to your local shelter. Currently, the Town of Hempstead Animal Shelter is in need of the following donations:

Cat beds, dogs beds, sheets, bath towels (not hand towels or wash cloths), comforters, blankets, and anything else comfy for homeless pets to cuddle up with while they wait for their forever homes. The animals are always so grateful for your generosity! Please ask your friends and neighbors to donate their old bedding too!

Thanks for reading and please remember to always adopt, never shop…pass it on!