See long-time Passaic Animal Shelter residents available for adoption
These long-time residents at the City of Passaic Animal Shelter are ready for their forever homes. See who’s available March 17, 2026.
North Jersey is home to countless adoptable pets waiting for their chance at a permanent home. But among the mix of dogs, cats and more, some animals have exceeded their expected stays at the shelter, calling the kennel home for far too long.
Despite their long shelter stays, these animals are still eagerly awaiting their forever family.
Are you looking to welcome a new furry family member into your home? Meet these adoptable animals, some of the longest residents of the City of Passaic Animal Shelter.
Long-term residents of the City of Passaic Animal Shelter
Winston is a senior pit bull mix with a prior bite history involving a small dog. As a result, he is suitable only for an experienced owner in a single-animal household. Despite his past, Winston is extremely gentle with people and has become a staple at the shelter since his arrival in April 2024. He was previously adopted but returned after being abandoned. The shelter’s staff remains committed to finding Winston a safe, stable home where he can live out his senior years.
For more information about Winston and how to adopt, check out his adoption profile here.
Tyson is a 3-year-old boxer and pit bull mix who was found as a stray on April 22, 2024. He is an active, athletic dog who enjoys running and playing fetch. Tyson does well with other dogs when introduced properly and has shown that he can be a good fit for families willing to provide structure and exercise.
For more information about Tyson and how to adopt, check out his adoption profile here.
Ivy came into the shelter’s care in December 2024 when her owner was arrested. After about nine months of ongoing communication with the courts and the owner, Supervising Animal Control Officer DeAndre Boatwright was able to secure legal relinquishment, allowing Ivy to be placed for adoption through the City of Passaic Animal Shelter. Ivy’s case reflects the persistence required in animal welfare to achieve positive outcomes, Boatwright said.
For more information about Ivy and how to adopt, check out her adoption profile here.
Blaze is a 2-year-old pit bull mix who was found tied to a bicycle in Passaic in October 2025. He is a friendly and energetic dog who has had some difficulty adjusting to the shelter environment. The staff has implemented enrichment strategies and a twice-daily feeding plan to address weight loss and support his overall well-being. Blaze is dog-friendly but should be monitored, as his play tends to be rough.
For more information about Blaze and how to adopt, check out his adoption profile here.
Milo is a 2-year-old pit bull mix who was surrendered on Dec. 3, 2025, due to housing instability. He is a strong, energetic dog who benefits from regular exercise. Once his energy is properly managed, Milo shows a gentle and affectionate temperament. He has done well with other dogs.
For more information about Milo and how to adopt, check out his adoption profile here.
Bruno is a 3- to 4-year-old pit bull mix with high energy and specific placement needs. He came to the shelter on Dec. 22, 2025. Due to a prior bite incident involving a child, Bruno requires an experienced owner and an adult-only home. Though he has not displayed resource guarding behaviors in the shelter’s care, all bite histories are taken seriously. Bruno would benefit from a structured environment and continued training.
For more information about Bruno and how to adopt, check out his adoption profile here.
Milo is a 2-year-old pit bull mix who spent much of his life confined to a basement due to his owner’s work schedule. Recognizing the need for a better quality of life, the shelter’s officers facilitated his surrender. Since arriving, he has shown the ability to interact well with other dogs when introduced slowly and continues to gain confidence. Milo came to the shelter on Jan. 30.
For more information about Milo and how to adopt, check out his adoption profile here.
Cash is a 2-year-old pit bull surrendered in February due to an eviction. He previously lived with two other dogs, both of whom have since been adopted. Cash exhibits signs of fear and stress, and the shelter’s staff has been working consistently with him through enrichment and gentle handling to build confidence and reduce anxiety.
For more information about Cash and how to adopt, check out his adoption profile here.
Recent arrivals available for adoption at the Passaic Animal Shelter
Chalupa is a 2-year-old pit bull and hound mix who was found roaming the streets of Passaic in March, reportedly near a Taco Bell. He has quickly become a staff and volunteer favorite due to his affectionate and playful demeanor. Chalupa is dog-friendly, has a docile temperament and would do well in an active home.
For more information about Chalupa and how to adopt, check out his adoption profile here.
Violet has been at the shelter since March 3. She is between 1 and 2 years old and recently had kittens. The shelter describes Violet as a “super friendly” cat.
For more information about Violet and how to adopt, check out her adoption profile here.
Mickey and Minnie are a bonded pair of 5-year-old Maltese. They were surrendered on March 13 due to their owner’s medical issues. They were clearly well cared for and love.
Minnie is currently being treated for skin allergies and an ear condition, both of which are improving under veterinary care. The shelter is committed to placing them together in a home that can continue their care and keep them bonded.
For more information about Mickey and Minnie and how to adopt, check out their adoption profile here.
