"We could reduce our kill rate to zero and be nationally recognized for that," Ferre said.

Sharp said the shelter staff has expressed interest in helping save the cats and dogs that are needlessly put to death and that makes it easier to work with them.

"The staff wants to do something and we have a huge number of highly adoptable animals," Sharp said. "Working together we can do more."

Sharp said dogs or cats selected for rescue are temperament tested and examined for any significant health problems. They are usually taken to a PetsMart or Petco store where they are offered for adoption. Some are placed in a foster home until a permanent home can be found. Others are added to the Internet PetFinder data base.

Sharp said it is easier to place animals for adoption at sites away from the shelter.

"People find it too depressing to go to a shelter and many don't realize what's available at a shelter: purebreds, healthy animals and young animals," Sharp said.

West Valley shelter director Karen Bird said she's loves working with No More Homeless Pets.

"Not only do they save the lives of the animals and find great homes for them, they raise the awareness that we're here. I like to come in Monday mornings and see empty kennels, plus we get the revenue from the adoption fees. It's basically a win-win situation."

---

E-mail: haddoc@desnews.com