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 or rescue group.
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 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.
Find your local shelter and pets available for adoption at the The Shelter Pet Project.
Shelter Pets Hit the Airwaves
Check out the Shelter Pet Project PSAs in the video above, then see how you can help us spread the word about shelter pets!
Learn MoreNews & Events
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May 23, 2012
Patriotic Pets
Check out our photos of patriotic pets for Memorial Day.
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May 18, 2012
The HSUS Presents Animal Care Expo 2012 in Las Vegas
Presented by The Humane Society of the United States, Animal Care Expo is celebrating its 21st year as the world's largest international education and trade show in the fields of animal care, sheltering and rescue.
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April 20, 2012
Welcome to Hamsterdam: Little Pets with Personality Plus
For hamster lovers, good things come in small packages
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April 20, 2012
Welcome to Hamsterdam: Tips for Creating a Hamster Heaven
Follow these tips to create a happy hamster heaven.
Our Victories
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March 29, 2012
Discount Pet Supply Converts to Adoptions-Only Model; Takes The HSUS’ ‘Puppy Friendly’ Pledge
Discount Pet Supply, located in Salem, N.H., has signed The Humane Society of the United States' Puppy Friendly Pet Stores pledge, and has converted to adopting out homeless puppies instead of selling commercially raised dogs.
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February 17, 2012
Oklahoma Court Rejects Constitutional Challenge to the State’s New Puppy Mill Law
The Humane Society of the United States applauds a decision by District Judge Jonathan Sullivan upholding Oklahoma’s commercial dog breeding statute and rejecting breeders’ claims that the statute and accompanying rules are unconstitutional. The law, enacted in 2010, creates a licensing and inspection process, as well as minimum standards of care, for commercial pet breeders in Oklahoma.
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February 17, 2012
The Humane Society of the United States Applauds Brick Township, N.J. for Taking Action Against Pet Store’s Alleged Cruelty
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December 28, 2010
Top 12 State Victories for Animals in 2010
Thanks to the help of our dedicated advocates and the support of state legislators, 2010 was another historic year for animals in state lawmaking.


