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
-
February 10, 2012
Animal Welfare Groups Urge Missouri Legislature to Repeal Burdensome Tax on Animal Shelters
The Humane Society of the United States, the ASPCA®, Best Friends Animal Society and other animal welfare organizations commend State Rep. Jeanne Kirkton, D-Webster Groves, and 39 cosponsors for introducing legislation, H.B. 1654, to repeal a burdensome state tax on nonprofit animal shelters and rescue groups.
-
December 23, 2011
Wayne's Blog: The HSUS’s Top 10 Victories for the Year
HSUS President and CEO Wayne Pacelle discusses The HSUS' top 10 victories in 2011.
-
December 6, 2011
Two North Carolina Animal Shelters Receive Grants from The HSUS
Grants, totaling $6,000, will help shelters make new additions, provide for basic repairs and implement new outreach programs to encourage pet adoption.
-
December 2, 2011
Make the Holiday Season a Safe and Happy Time for Pets
The Humane Society of the United States and Colbie Caillat are reminding people that as they celebrate the season, many of the things that make the holidays special may also pose hazards for our canine and feline friends.
Our Victories
-
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.
-
December 16, 2010
Austin City Council Prohibits Retail Sales of Dogs and Cats
The Austin, Texas, City Council has approved an ordinance to prohibit retail sales of dogs and cats at pet stores, a measure that will help crack down on inhumane puppy mills.
-
December 6, 2010
Federal Judge Dismisses Lawsuit Challenging Dog Breeding Regulations as Unconstitutional
The HSUS applauds a decision by the Federal District Court in Florida upholding Volusia County’s animal care ordinance, and rejecting the plaintiff’s claim that dog breeders have a constitutional right to operate free from humane regulations.
-
November 4, 2010
Missouri Veterinarians Celebrate Victory for Dogs
Missouri veterinarians are joining with voters from throughout the state in celebrating the passage of Proposition B, a statewide ballot initiative to establish basic standards of care for dogs in large-scale commercial breeding facilities.
