Riverside, CA  – In the new Superman film, audiences are falling in love with Krypto, the superhero’s loyal canine companion. What many don’t know is that the real-life inspiration behind the on-screen pup, Ozu, was once a shelter dog rescued in Southern California by Riverside County Department of Animal Services.

Thanks to the swift actions of RCDAS Lieutenant of Field Services James Huffman, Ozu was one of 37 small dogs brought to the shelter where a team of field officers, vet staff and animal care technicians helped intake the dogs who came from a packed minivan.   

“If a dog who started at our shelter system can inspire a movie hero, it’s proof that animals in our care have the potential to do incredible things,” said RCDAS Lieutenant of Field Services James Huffman. “You don’t need a cape to be a hero - just a willingness to open your home and heart to a shelter pet.”

In honor of Ozu’s journey from shelter life to superhero fame, RCDAS is launching “Unleash Your Superpower – Adopt a Hero,” a monthlong adoption event running August 1–31. Adoption fees will be waived for all cats and dogs and include spay/neuter surgery, vaccinations, microchips and engraved ID tags.

“We can all do more, and this story shows the power of giving shelter pets a second chance,” said  Riverside County Chairman of the Board and Fourth District Supervisor V. Manuel Perez. “You never know who is waiting for you at a Riverside County shelter, and there is no better time to make a lasting connection.”   

Riverside County operates one of the highest-intake shelter systems in the nation, and this event comes at a critical time. Kennels are over capacity, and every adoption creates space for another pet in need.

Adoption Event Details

• What: Unleash Your Superpower – Adopt a Hero
• When: August 1–31, 2025
• Where: Riverside County Department of Animal Services locations
• Adoption Fee: $0 for all cats and dogs

“Not all heroes wear capes. Some wear collars,” said Fifth District Supervisor Yxstian Gutierrez. “Ozu may be a Hollywood star now, but his story started in Riverside County. Let’s help more shelter pets find their starring role…in a home.”

Shelter locations/hours:

Western Riverside County/City Animal Shelter

6851 Van Buren Blvd. Riverside, CA 92509

Sunday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Wednesday: 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. (Closed Mondays)

San Jacinto Valley Animal Campus

581 S. Grand Ave. San Jacinto, CA 92582

Sunday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Wednesday: 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. (Closed Mondays)

Coachella Valley Animal Campus

72-050 Pet Land Place. Thousand Palms, CA 92276

Sunday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Wednesday: 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. (Closed Mondays)

Blythe Animal Shelter 245 S Carlton. Blythe, CA 92225

Monday-Friday 10 a.m.- 4 p.m. (Closed Saturday and Sunday)