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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February 16, 2010
Indiana House Passes Resolution Proclaiming 'Adopt a Shelter Pet Day'
The HSUS commends the Indiana House of Representatives for passing a joint resolution designating Oct. 1 as "Adopt a Shelter Pet Day" in Indiana.
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February 10, 2010
Somebody to Love
Here are some great photos of snuggling pets that will melt your heart this Valentine's Day.
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February 9, 2010
Sacramento Area Pet Store Takes ‘Puppy Friendly’ Pledge
The Rocklin Family Pet Shop and Self Serve Dog Wash, a pet store located in Rocklin, Calif., has joined the growing movement to stop selling puppies from puppy mills and start supporting local animal adoption programs instead.
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February 9, 2010
Ten Ways to Show Your Love
This Valentine's Day, let us count the ways we love friends with fur, feathers, fetlock or fleece...
Our Victories
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February 26, 2010
Puppy Mill Operator Sentenced to 10 Years
The HSUS applauds Judge Timothy Easter for imposing an appropriate sentence following the conviction of the owner of Pine Bluff Kennels in Lyles, Tenn., on animal cruelty charges.
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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.










