Thinking about getting a pet? Millions of companion animals in shelters across America are just waiting for a special home like yours. Navigating the adoption process isn't as hard as you think. We can help you find the perfect pet and discover how amazing adopting a pet can be.
When you're looking to add a pet to your life, consider adopting a homeless animal from your local shelter.
Whether you want a puppy or a more mature dog, a purebred or a one-of-a-kind mixed breed, even a rabbit or hamster, your shelter has the best selection of animals anywhere—all screened for good health and behavior. Most shelters will even help you with spaying and neutering.
The Shelter Pet Project, an unprecedented campaign aimed at boosting pet adoptions nationwide, has resources to help you find adoptable pets in your area.
The animal shelter is your top source for a new pet, and our pet-care experts have compiled all the information you'll need to find your nearest shelter, select a pet who matches your lifestyle, and more.
Adopt a shelter pet
As you read this, thousands of dogs and cats of all breeds, sizes, ages, and personalities are waiting for new homes, eager to start a new chapter in their lives. Read these heartwarming adoption stories and learn how to find an adoptable pet near you!
Learn MoreNews & Events
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January 11, 2010
New St. Bernard Parish Animal Shelter Opens
The St. Bernard Parish Animal Shelter celebrates the grand opening of its new facility, built with a $250,000 grant from The HSUS.
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December 22, 2009
Pet Stores in 35 States Pledge to Protect Puppies
More than 400 pet stores across North America have signed The HSUS' puppy friendly pet store pledge. The pledge indicates the stores' commitment to not to sell puppies, but instead support local animal adoption programs.
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December 17, 2009
Home for the Holidays
When we think of the holidays, many of us think of our pets. But millions of dogs and cats will spend this holiday season in an animal shelter waiting for his or her forever home.
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November 25, 2009
One To Watch - "A Dog Named Christmas"
Celebrating the human-animal bond, the new Hallmark "Hall of Fame" movie, premiering on Sunday, November 29, is the ideal holiday greeting.
Our Victories
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February 8, 2010
Anniversary of Freedom
February 6, 2010 marked the one-year anniversary of freedom for 283 dogs rescued from dismal, filthy conditions at a puppy mill near Goldsboro, NC.
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February 2, 2010
West Hollywood City Council Prohibits Retail Sales of Dogs and Cats
The West Hollywood city council passed an ordinance to prohibit retail sales of dogs and cats at pet stores, closing off a primary channel for the sale of dogs from puppy mills.
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January 29, 2010
Cook County Government Passes Tethering Law to Protect Dogs and Community
The HSUS commends the Cook County Board of Commissioners for passing an ordinance to stop the inhumane tethering of dogs.
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December 29, 2009
2009: A Banner Year for Animals
The HSUS reflects on some major achievements for animal protection in 2009. Countless animals have been rescued from harm, spared from suffering and guaranteed basic standards of humane treatment.
