PetSmart Charities Launches National Adoption Week to Help Pets Find Homes

PetSmart Charities is set to hold its annual National Adoption Week from October 20 to 26, 2025, encouraging families across the United States to welcome new pets into their homes. This initiative, in partnership with Hill’s Pet Nutrition, aims to connect adoptable animals with caring families at PetSmart stores nationwide.

The urgency of this event stems from alarming statistics. According to the 2025 Hill’s Pet Nutrition State of Shelter Pet Adoption Report, approximately 5.8 million animals entered shelters in 2024, marking the fifth consecutive year that shelter intakes exceeded pet adoptions. This trend has resulted in higher shelter populations, underscoring the need for increased adoption efforts.

“National Adoption Week is a vital opportunity to transform intent into action,” said Meghan Lehman, Senior Manager for Shelter Brand Engagement at Hill’s Pet Nutrition. “Our report shows that nearly two-thirds of Americans are likely to adopt a shelter pet when considering adding a new member to their family.” The initiative not only aims to alleviate the burden on local shelters but also provides essential resources for new pet owners, including adopter kits featuring Hill’s Science Diet.

Many shelters face significant challenges, with prolonged stays for animals leading to overcrowding. Adopting a pet during National Adoption Week can make a substantial difference, not just for families, but for the pets themselves. Heidi Marston, Director of Pet Placement Initiatives at PetSmart Charities, emphasized the importance of this event, stating, “For over 30 years, we’ve believed that every pet deserves love and a family.”

PetSmart Charities has a strong track record in facilitating adoptions. The organization has helped over 11 million pets find homes since its inception. To expand its efforts, PetSmart Charities is opening a new Everyday Adoption Center (EAC) in Phoenix, Arizona, which will accommodate up to 50 adoptable cats and dogs. This new center, located at 2901 W. Agua Fria Fwy, will host a range of adoptable pets, including a featured dog named Daisy during its grand opening on October 25.

During National Adoption Week, thousands of local shelters will showcase adoptable pets, including dogs, cats, puppies, and kittens, at nearly every PetSmart location across the U.S. and Puerto Rico. Potential adopters will have the chance to interact with the animals and receive guidance from staff and volunteers regarding pet care needs.

For those unable to adopt, there are still ways to contribute. Donations can be made to support pets in need through the organization’s website, PetSmartCharities.org. Additionally, individuals can explore adoption options by visiting PetSmartCharities.org/adopt-a-pet for a list of adoptable animals and events.

PetSmart Charities remains committed to enhancing the welfare of pets and their families. Each year, the organization assists in connecting up to 400,000 pets with loving homes and provides grants to support various animal welfare initiatives. With more than $500 million granted since its establishment in 1994, PetSmart Charities has consistently been recognized as the leading funder of animal welfare in North America, achieving a Four-Star Rating from Charity Navigator for the past 18 years.

Through collaborative efforts with local shelters and rescue organizations, PetSmart and PetSmart Charities continue to strive for a future where every pet finds a loving home. The upcoming National Adoption Week serves as a significant opportunity to highlight this mission and encourage communities to embrace the joys of pet companionship.