Open Door Animal Sanctuary

01/17/2025

My name is Lilly and I've spent half my life looking for a home. I need your help to find one!
I'm three years old now and It's been 18 months since I first arrived at the shelter. 578 Days. I've been passed by over and over and over again.
I'll just be up-front with you: it's because I'm shy. That's the whole entire reason. I don't approach visitors and may run away when strangers try to touch me. I'm friendly with people I know, but most people who come to adopt are strangers and I don't really have time to learn to trust them.
Naturally, there's a lot more to me than just that one thing! Can your whole personality be summed up in one word? Neither can mine! I'm also good with other cats, I love belly rubs, and there's not much I wouldn't do for a squeeze-up treat! I love to play with string toys and I'm sweet, quiet, and well-behaved. I've been in a foster home for a couple months, where I've been enjoying some peace and quiet and learning what "home" can be like! I was still on the shy side in my foster home, so I'll need someone who can be patient with me even if it takes me a while to get comfortable. I'm never going to be the sort who likes big parties. I'm also not a big fan of dogs or kids small enough to be noisy and unpredictable.
I would love to live with another cat. I like other cats and do well when I have one to show me that it's okay to trust humans. If you don't have another cat already, I have a sister named Lia (she and I are practically identical, but her eyes are yellower). We don't have to stay together. I've always been good about making friends with other cats. But we do get along well! We also both have sponsored adoption fees, so it would cost you $0 to adopt me, $0 to adopt Lia, and $0.00 to adopt both of us.
I'm coming back to the shelter from my foster home next week so that I can meet people and find my family. I know it will be worth it, but I'm really scared in the shelter and would love it if I didn't have to stay here very long (or even not at all). I need your help with that! If you can adopt, please come and meet me. If you can't, please share my story so that it can reach as many people as possible. I know my family is out there.
My name is Lilly, I'm three years old, and I'm spayed, up to date on shots, and fully vetted. I'm available for adoption through
Open Door Animal Sanctuary
House Springs, MO
(636)671-3643

01/16/2025

"Smile, Rocco," they tell me. "It's not that serious!"
And they're probably right. I mean, I'm an eight-month-old puppy! Everything in my life should be frivolous and fun, right? Life should be all toys and cuddles and walks and naps and no worries at all.
It is serious, though. I mean... this is my whole life we're talking about! My all-day-every-day! So I have to make it count.
I've got kind of a poet's soul to begin with. Oh, don't get me wrong- I'm still plenty puppyish! I do love toys and have plenty of energy. I'm very sweet and good with other dogs. When I'm comfortable with someone, I'm wonderfully cuddly and a total love. And I'm learning new things about the world every day!
I'm a sensitive soul, though, and I need a little work on building confidence. It sometimes takes me a few minutes to trust brand-new people and I'm not always comfortable in really noisy or chaotic settings. I've grown up with a boisterous dog brother who has tended to kind of take charge and overshadow me, so I haven't really had a chance to come into my own and blossom as my own dog.
That's why this is so serious. Right now, I'm a shelter dog. And I know that's not REALLY "who I am." That's why I need a family of my own: someone to help me bloom and grow, to love me and let me love them, and to teach me all the wonderful things in life! It's a big thing to ask for, but I know my person or people are out there.
My name is Rocco, I'm eight months old, and I'm neutered, up to date on shots, and fully vetted. I'm available for adoption through
Open Door Animal Sanctuary
House Springs, MO
(636)671-3643

01/15/2025

If you’ll allow me to espresso myself, I have something to say:
I have the feeling this is going to be the start of a brewtiful friendship. You’re going to like me a Latte!
Oh, P.S. … That’s my name! I’m Latte. I’m five years old . And I’ve been waiting a long time for a home. Almost four whole years. Maybe I’m a late bloomer (or a Latte bloomer?) or maybe I just decided to make a life change, but the truth is… it’s taken me a while to be ready for adoption.
I live in the feral section with the cats who don’t like to be touched or handled. And, for a while, that’s pretty much where I belonged. But, after a couple years’ worth of seeing humans every single day and having them attend to my every need, treat me with love and respect, and never try to harm me once… I figured I’d give them a chance.
And… oh man, am I glad I did! Did you know that when humans sit down, they develop what’s known as a “lap”? It’s like the softest, warmest, most welcoming cat bed ever. And did you know that when humans rub their hands over your fur and scratch your ears, it actually feels really good?
They don’t talk about it much over here because cats don’t often get adopted from the feral section, but I’ve heard rumors about adoption. I’ve heard some cats get to live in nice, quiet houses with humans of their own. I’ve heard that sometimes there are other cats, which would be okay by me! I get along well with other cats. I’ve heard that the humans will often play with you (string toys are my favorite) or give you treats (squeeze-ups, please!) and let you sleep in their beds. I’ve also heard about dogs. I haven’t met dogs since coming to the shelter, so I’m not 100% sure what I would think of them, but I’m willing to give it a shot!
I’ll probably need some patience while making the transition to a new home. It’s a big change! But I want to be loved and I’ll get there with time.
So I hope to see you later, percolator! Take a break from the daily grind and come and see me. I hope you java nice day!
My name is Latte, I’m five years old, and I’m spayed, up to date on shots, and fully vetted. I’m available for adoption through
Open Door Animal Sanctuary
House Springs, MO

01/14/2025

BIG THANKS to Circus Kaput for sponsoring our upcoming Open Door Animal Sanctuary 50th Birthday Kickoff - Fur-Ever Fun: Celebrating 50 Pawsome Years! 🐾✨ event! Not only that, but they'll be there with entertainers to REALLY make this event one to remember!

01/14/2025

Okay, listen. So, I've been on the search for a new family, right? And there are a couple things I've learned. I hear you're also looking for a new family member and maybe some of this can help.
You gotta make the humans fall in love with you, right? You want them to look at you and say, "Oh, Odie! You're my soulmate!" Or... well, maybe you don't, if your name isn't Odie. But mine is!
Anyway... here are a few of my signature moves. First, even if you don't actually know how to "shake" on command (I don't), you can still give the human your paw. And then, when they put their hand out to take it, rest your chin in their hand and look up at them with your big blue-and-brown eyes.
Oh... are your eyes only one color each? That's cool. Mine are both icy-blue on top, like a part of me is always looking toward the sky.
Okay, so the thing is, you can't just be all charm and no substance. The humans will see through that. You've got to also be genuinely a really good boy. I'm really sweet, friendly, and loving. Also, I get along well with other dogs and would love a dog sibling. I can be just a little bossy and "too big for my britches" with other dogs, so I would do best with a calm-and-confident dog friend who can set boundaries. I'm only eight months old, so I'm still learning! I'll still make mistakes. All puppies do. But that's the great thing about a good human: they'll help you learn!
Hang on. Wait. Are YOU a human? Amazing. I suppose the equation is all different for you, then, because I ALREADY love you! You don't have to do anything at all to convince me that we should be family because I'm already there. Let's make it happen!
My name is Odie, I'm eight months old, and I'm neutered, up to date on shots, and fully vetted. I'm available for adoption through
Open Door Animal Sanctuary
House Springs, MO
(636)671-3643

01/13/2025

When they said "hold me closer, tiny dancer," I'm pretty sure they were talking about me. They could have titled the song, "Chia" and it would be perfectly accurate.
Yes, I am itty-bitty. Four years old and petite enough that most people assume I'm a kitten. Or, with these big giant bright green eyes, people figure I might be some kind of pixie.
As for the dancing part, that also fits! I'm a light-footed little darling who will leap to greet you when I'm happy to see you. When I want attention, I'll purr and purr and do a cute little biscuit-making jig. I'll dance around, headbutting and chirping, while you scratch my ears and tell me how cute I am!
Hold me closer? I'm cool with being held! I mean, I'm a cat, so I'm not always in the mood, but I'm up for it most of the time.
I don't just want to be a tiny dancer. I want to be YOURS! I would be a great fit for a variety of homes. I get along well with other cats and have lived with and gotten along with dogs and with babies. Basically, I'm an adorable, sweet, gorgeous little angel sprite of a cat. Come and see for yourself!
My name is Chia, I'm four years old, and I'm spayed, up to date on shots, and fully vetted. I'm available for adoption through
Open Door Animal Sanctuary
House Springs, MO
(636)671-3643

01/11/2025

Weekend Roundup! Do you need a puppy to bring life to your... well... life? Sammy is his own sunshine! He's lively, adorable, and going to be absolutely perfect for someone!

My name is Sammy and I'm nine months old. That means that this is my very first time experiencing a new year!
I've heard that the new year is a time when humans think about all the ways they'd like to improve their lives and themselves. And, even though I'm still relatively new here on Earth, I still have a few thoughts on the subject.
Like... is your New Years goal to get more active? Then you should probably get a dog! Having someone like me (young, energetic, and very attentive and trainable) to walk would be excellent motivation to get up and move. Not only that, but you've got built-in company for hikes and excursions.
Maybe you're active enough, but you'd like to get out and meet more people. Well, I can help you out there, too! I'm not only adorable, but also very friendly. I have never yet met a person I didn't immediately want to make my pal. Ditto for dogs: I love playing with other dogs!
Maybe you'd like to learn to express yourself better. Wear your heart on your sleeve, as it were. Well, I can show you how to do that! I'm only about 40 lb (still growing), but I've been known to knock an rather surprise fully-grown adult all the way over in my enthusiasm and joy. Apparently, she wasn't expecting me to try to climb into her arms!
I've got a good one: maybe you'd like to make this world a better place. Do something big for someone in need. Maybe change someone's whole life for the better. Well... might I suggest heading down to a certain animal shelter and asking to see a certain sweet black-and-white puppy? It would mean the absolute world to me to find my own home and family.
This year, I resolve to be the best boy I can and make my new people happy they decided to take a chance on me. What about you?
My name is Sammy, I'm nine months old, and I'm neutered, up to date on shots, and fully vetted. I'm available for adoption through
Open Door Animal Sanctuary
House Springs, MO
(636)671-3643

01/11/2025

Weekend Roundup! Molly and Cali are still waiting! They're ten thousand percent adorable and over-the-top sweet. And they love each other, so you never have to worry about them being lonely!
The roads are starting to clear up, we're open today, and it's a great time to come out and adopt a pair of cats!

There's something a little magical about twins, right? That's why they show up so often in books. That's why anyone who has young identical (or, like us, near-identical) twin humans gets stopped every time they go to the grocery store. We're a year old, so not exactly little anymore, but still young!
I'm Cali (lying down) and this is my sister, Molly. We're not just twins. We're best friends. They tell us it's sometimes pretty hard to find a home for two cats at once, but... we don't care. It's important to us that we stay together.
Here are some of the things we like or love: Each other, obviously. We can often be found cuddled up together and are seldom very far from each other. People. Other cats. Dogs. Squeeze-up treats. Toys (Molly will sometimes walk around carrying her feather wands with her or play fetch with a mouse toy!).
We're both pretty outgoing ladies who like to be in the middle of things. We're never too far from the action and love attention. Our friends who take care of us are our favorites, of course, but we won't turn down some love from a stranger!
Both of us loved a lap in our previous home, although neither of us is super jazzed about being picked up and held. We prefer to come to you on our own! And we do- if you walk into our section and see a cat barreling up the hallway toward you or politely-but-insistently meowing at you for attention from a window ledge, there's a pretty good chance it's one of us.
We've had our fill of looking out the window of the shelter, though- we want a home of our own! So if you'd love to have a pair of lively, loving, super-cute twins, come and check us out! Oh, and one more thing: since we MUST be adopted together and we understand that makes things a little bit harder, one of our adoption fees is sponsored! So you'd pay one adoption fee for two perfect cats. Amazing.
We're Molly and Cali, both a year old, and both spayed, up to date on shots, and fully vetted. We're available for adoption through
Open Door Animal Sanctuary
House Springs, MO
(636)671-3643

01/10/2025

How are your pets coping with the weather during this, The Longest Week In The History Of Ever? We want to see pictures!
Are they romping joyously in the snow and refusing to come back in? Enjoying the warm blankets inside? Do you have them in cute sweaters and coats? Show us!

Shout-out to those of you whose stir-crazy pups are driving you a little nuts, those who take their dogs leash walks for potty breaks and have to trudge through the snow multiple times a day, those who are in the process of housebreaking and finding it extra difficult this week, and those whose normally-housebroken dogs have decided that going outside just isn't worth it right now. Shout-out to the feral cat feeders/caretakers who have been braving the weather to look after their charges and those who have been putting up shelters and heated bowls for their local community cats.
Also, it's not our department, but a shout-out to those with farm animals who have been putting in the work of keeping them safe, warm, and fed.
It's not always easy. But it won't last forever. Love your animals a little extra hard this week! They won't understand the extra work you're putting in, but we do and we appreciate it.

01/10/2025

You guys. The weather is gross. The roads (at least right now) are worse than you might think.
As you might imagine, only about 1/3 of the staff was able to make it in today, so we're stretched pretty thin. We'll once again be closed to the public in order to allow the staff to focus on taking care of the animals in the shelter.
If there are any experienced/trained volunteers or community service workers who live nearby and want to come help with animal care, we would welcome the assistance.
Thanks again for your patience!

01/10/2025

Update: Nova has been adopted!
--
I have one request: hold me like a baby. Cuddle me. I'll be the Ariana Grande to your Cynthia Erivo: I always want to be touching you, even if it means holding onto your finger.
I'm about a year old and only like 10 lb, so I'm actually the perfect size for carrying around. Like, if you wanted to start a collection of babywearing wraps and build a wardrobe of those hoodies with the kangaroo pouches in them, I'd probably fit perfectly in those. Just sayin'.
I'm interested in squeaky toys and I love treats and I would bet that, once I'm comfortable in a home, I'll become a little less clingy and a lot more active! I may act like I'm the perfect little stuffed-animal-who-loves-you-back companion when you first meet me, but I do need people to understand that, as little and cute as I am, I'm actually not a toy. I'm a living, breathing dog who will need someone able and willing to put time into training me, exercising me, and meeting all my needs (yes, even when it's snowy.)
I am a very sweet-tempered and loving girl. I get along well with other dogs and haven't met cats yet. I can't wait to meet you!
So hold me like a baby and never let me go. We can be best friends for life!
My name is Nova, I'm a year old, and I'm spayed, up to date on shots, and fully vetted. I'm available for adoption through
Open Door Animal Sanctuary
House Springs, MO
(636)671-3643

01/09/2025

Update: she's been reclaimed!
Does anyone recognize this sweet girl? She was found out in the cold on Franks Rd. and brought in by Byrnes Mill Police Department this morning. No chip or ID. We're getting her warmed up and examined by the vet as we speak. Someone must be worried sick about her. If she's yours or you know where she belongs, please contact us at (636)671-3643 or bring proof of ownership to the shelter to reclaim her.

01/09/2025

My name is Kilmowski and I'm in the business of getting you what you want... Uh. Within reason, that is. I mean... I suppose I can't do anything that involves thumbs. Or money.
But if what you want is headbutts? I've got plenty of those to give! If you're looking for purrs? Slow blinks? I'm your man! If you want to be entertained by a handsome devil of a cat playing with toys like a kitten? You're in luck. If you're looking for a companion for your dog or other cat? You're not gonna believe this, but I've got that covered, too!
Basically, if what you want is an outgoing, achingly-handsome, affectionate, playful, four-year-old cat who gets along with other cats and dogs (including big dogs and puppies) and has a beautifully easygoing temperament? Well, that's kind of my specialty. Because not only am I a basically perfect specimen of a cat... but I'm available for adoption! I could be yours!
My name is Kilmowski, I'm four years old, and I'm neutered, up to date on shots, and fully vetted. I'm available for adoption through
Open Door Animal Sanctuary
House Springs, MO
(636)671-3643

01/08/2025

We firmly believe every fur-baby is a VIP (Very Important Pet 🐶) – but at the Purina Pet Parade, we humans can get the VIP treatment, too 💅

Only 100 adults and 100 kids will get the chance to experience the WORLD’S LARGEST (you heard us) costumed pet parade *from the Bud Light Party Centre’s VIP Tent,* where guests are guaranteed ✨ front-row views ✨ of all the cuteness from Lafayette Street, in addition to:

🥘 A full lunch buffet (11:30 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.)
🍺 Open bar for 21+
🌦️ Climate-controlled tent, to ward off any weather-related woes
🚻 Private facilities exclusively for VIP Tent Guests

Watching adorable dressed-up doggies, beer in hand, belly full of buffet, surrounded by your fellow animal lovers? The National Dog Show could never.

There’s a limited number of VIP Tent spots, so buy your tickets now to lock in the primo pet parade experience for you and the whole family on Sunday, February 23rd! All proceeds benefit Open Door Animal Sanctuary 💜

Tickets available for purchase at this link - just scroll to VIP section! ➡️ stlmardigras.org/events/purina-pet-parade

NOTE: Registration to strut your stuff in the Pet Parade is not open yet. Stay tuned, we'll announce it here!

01/08/2025

Mr. Fantastic. Mr. Personality. Mr. Likable. Mr. Marvelous. Introducing: Me! My name is Leo and I'm the man of your dreams.
To begin with, I'm the perfect age. Four years old: old enough to have a little life experience and maturity, but young enough to still be in my prime. Second of all, I'm the perfect size: 53 lb and big and strong enough to scare off predators, but small enough to fit next to you on the couch.
I'm energetic, but polite. I can sit, shake, and high five, so you know I'm intelligent. I'm very attentive. And I give the best smooches.
I'm the kind of guy you can trust. In my previous home, I was housebroken and didn't need to be crated when left alone. I'm cool with other dogs and have even lived with (and liked) human babies. I haven't met cats yet, but I'm always open to a new learning experience. Overall, I've got an A+ temperament: I'm just a good dog!
So if you want a tall blond fella with honey-brown eyes who treats you like the center of his universe, I'm your man! Come out and see if it's a match!
My name is Leo, I'm four years old, and I'm neutered, up to date on shots, and fully vetted. I'm available for adoption through
Open Door Animal Sanctuary
House Springs, MO
(636)671-3643

01/07/2025

My name is Bellamy and I have the heart of a king.
It seems right, doesn't it? We've all heard stories of humble peasant foundlings who turned out to be the long-lost True King. And, I mean, just look at me. These massive dark-blue eyes look even more striking and even dark-blue-er in person. And I look like a miniature golden-and-white tiger. You could 100% imagine me as a benevolent ruler.
In fact, I live every day like I'm in charge. I'm not a tyrant. I wouldn't go down in history as "Bellamy the Impaler" or "Mad King Bellamy" or whatever. I'm good with other cats and dogs and I love people. I have lots of friends. So "Bellamy the Wise" or "Bellamy the Charitable" or "Bellamy the Fabulous" would be good, I guess.
You know what I think I would love about being king? All the hand-shaking and meeting people. I don't know how to shake hands yet, but I do love meeting people. You'll usually find me hanging out right at the entrance to my section, where everybody has to walk by and say hello to me. If I'm not there, fear not- I'll catch up to you and introduce myself. I just want to make myself known.
So it's okay if I've lived the first five years of my life unrecognized as the royalty I am by right. And it's okay that I'm currently homeless and waiting in an animal shelter for someone to see my magnificence for what it is. Because I know what I am. And I know the right person will see the truth in me and call me "Your Majesty."
My name is Bellamy, I'm five years old, and I'm neutered, up to date on shots, and fully vetted. I'm available for adoption through
Open Door Animal Sanctuary
House Springs, MO
(636)671-3643

01/06/2025

Open Door will remain closed today so the few employees that made it into work can focus on taking care of the animals. Thank you for all your support...

01/06/2025

The world is my oyster, and you? You're my pearl. My name is Teen and I can't wait to spend every day of the rest of my life with you. We can cuddle and I'll purr you to sleep each night. Or we can play! Maybe I can even play with your other cats. I would LOVE to have a cat pal to play with!
I'm five months old and just about perfect. I'm super-outgoing and, pretty much every day, at least five different people go from total strangers to completely in love with me. I can't say I blame them. I've got all the best kitten attributes: fun, sweet, and adorable. I've met dogs and haven't had a problem with them. I'm fantastic with other cats. I'll let you hold me like a baby and carry me around. I'm generally awesome.
So why am I not adopted yet? Probably the main reason is that I have a small birth defect in my breastbone. Instead of being flat, it curves slightly inward. You can feel it when you touch my chest. It's called pectus excavatum if you wanna get fancy (or google it). Mine is not a severe case and is not causing me any problems. It's very likely that it never will and will always just be a cosmetic problem. However, since I'm still growing (and so is my skeleton), there is a small chance that it could cause problems for me when I get older. Right now, it's entirely a non-issue. Most likely, it will continue to be a non-issue for the rest of my life. And it's by far not the most interesting thing about me! But I still have to let people know, just in case.
The other things, you'll pretty much know just by meeting me: I'm sweet and lovey and lots of fun and I would make an awesome pet and a great best friend!
My name is Teen, I'm five months old, and I'm neutered, up to date on shots, and fully vetted. I'm available for adoption through
Open Door Animal Sanctuary
House Springs, MO
(636)671-3643