Our Mission

AZK9 is a non-profit 501 (c) (3) organization serving Arizona’s underserved communities with the tri-fold approach of education, sterilization & rescue.

This group of dedicated volunteers founded by people wanting to make a difference in the lives of companion animals in Maricopa County. For the dogs in our care, our mission has remained to give a second chance to those who have been abused, abandoned, and forgotten. Our focus has remained to help those who were considered less adoptable, hard to place, overlooked, and truly in need of a second chance in life. We believe every life is a life worth saving and that no animal is a lost cause. Each animal we take into our care is a deserving life needing love and companionship of a family. We work hard with each and every dog providing thorough medical care, training, and socializing to get each dog ready for a loving and devoted home.

The founders

Why We Started AZK9

In 2010, we founded Lost Paws: Sterilization, Education, and Rescue with a simple goal—to make a difference for pets in need while supporting our community. What began as a small group of friends offering free spay and neuter services, education, and shelter intervention has evolved into AZK9, but our mission remains rooted in compassion and action.

Over the years, we've expanded to address new challenges, including providing care for senior pets and medical cases. Our commitment to animals and their families has only grown stronger, and we are endlessly grateful to our community for standing with us every step of the way.

It’s an honor to serve our community by improving the lives of pets and their people through adoption and support, and we’re proud to be part of a movement that creates lasting change in the animal welfare community.