Pet Adoption

Why adopt a pet?

Adopting a pet is the perfect way to find a new best friend. Whether you're seeking canine companionship, looking for a feline friend, or thinking of something more exotic, chances are good that the perfect pet is out there waiting for you to give him a forever home. Be sure to research your options carefully before taking on the responsibility of pet ownership.

How to adopt a pet

by E.A. Paul

Adopting a pet is a wonderful and rewarding experience for both you and the adoptee. Just like us, dogs, cats, rabbits, ferrets, and other animals yearn to have a loving home. When an animal becomes abandoned and is sometimes forced to live in an un... More>

How to know when you are ready to commit to a pet adoption

by Brenda Nelson

Are you ready to adopt a pet? It is a huge commitment, both financially and emotionally. Knowing when you are ready will save you a lot of grief, and may even save life, the life of a pet that you may be considering adopting. There are some practica... More>

Things to consider before adopting a pet

by Brenda Nelson

Adopting a pet is a wonderful idea, but one that should not be entered lightly or on a whim. There are several factors worth considering before adopting a pet 1. Are you allowed pets where you live? Consider landlord approval if you rent, and local ... More>

Why all adopted pets should have a microchip

by John W. Paulus

Technology is moving at a break-neck pace. From cell phones to the Internet to HDTV, our lives are changing in innumerable ways. Technology has even affected the way that we raise our pets. For example, technological advances have allowed us to plac... More>

What you need to know before adopting a pet from a shelter

by Brenda Nelson

Adoption is one of the best ways of getting a new pet. Not only are you saving a life but you are often saving money as well. As simple as adopting a pet sounds there are still some things you should know before you rush out to get a new pet. -Are y... More>

How to organize a pet adoption event

by Laura Leigh Fields

Organizing a pet adoption event can prove to be beneficial for the rescue animals you intend to help and the community at large. There are a variety of ways that you can go about hosting a pet adoption event. You can make it as simple or as extravag... More>

BirdAdoption.org
Learn about how you can adopt a pet bird.
Adopt a rabbit.
The House Rabbit Society offers advice on adopting a rabbit.
Adopt a horse.
Habitat for Horses can help you find available equines.
Sugar glider exchange.
Sugar gliders are some of the cutest small pets around! The sugar glider exchange will help you find one who need a loving home.

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Quick facts

The Humane Society of the United States provided these statistics:

Number of cats and dogs entering shelters each year:
8–10 million (HSUS estimate)
Number of cats and dogs euthanized by shelters each year:
4–5 million (HSUS estimate)
Number of cats and dogs adopted from shelters each year:
3–5 million (HSUS estimate)
Number of cats and dogs reclaimed by owners from shelters each year:
Between 600,000 and 750,000—15–30% of dogs and 2–5% of cats entering shelters (HSUS estimate)
Number of animal shelters in the United States:
Between 4,000 and 6,000 (HSUS estimate)
Percentage of dogs in shelters who are purebred:
25% (HSUS estimate)
Average number of litters a fertile dog can produce in one year: 2
Average number of puppies in a canine litter: 6–10

Official Websites

Petfinder.com
Find a pet in your local area to adopt. Search by species, breed, age, size,and gender.
AdoptAPet.com
Read about reasons to adopt a pet. Search for dogs, cats, or other animals in need of adoption. Find local shelters and volunteer opportunities.
Adoption info from the Humane Society of the United States