PetSmart Charities Launches National Adoption Week to Find Homes for Pets

PetSmart Charities is hosting its annual National Adoption Week from October 20 to 26, 2025, inviting families across the United States to find their new pets just in time for Halloween. The nonprofit organization, in collaboration with Hill’s Pet Nutrition, will facilitate adoption events at PetSmart stores nationwide, where potential pet owners can meet adoptable animals from local shelters.

According to the 2025 Hill’s Pet Nutrition State of Shelter Pet Adoption Report, approximately 5.8 million animals entered shelters in 2024. This marks the fifth consecutive year that shelters have seen more intakes than placements, leading to overcrowding. “Hill’s Pet Nutrition is proud to sponsor PetSmart Charities National Adoption Week, which helps alleviate the strain on shelters and connect more pets with loving families,” stated Meghan Lehman, Senior Manager of Shelter Brand Engagement at Hill’s Pet Nutrition.

The report highlights that nearly two-thirds of Americans are likely to adopt a shelter pet when considering a new family member. National Adoption Week serves as a crucial opportunity to transform this intent into action. Participating stores will offer adopter kits, which include a starter bag of Hill’s Science Diet, at select locations.

Local shelters have reported increasing lengths of stay for pets, particularly dogs, exacerbating the issue of overcrowding. By adopting a pet during National Adoption Week, families not only expand their households but also contribute to saving lives and supporting local animal welfare organizations. “For over 30 years, we’ve been driven by the belief that every pet deserves love, attention, and family,” said Heidi Marston, Director of Pet Placement Initiatives at PetSmart Charities.

This initiative reflects the organization’s commitment to connecting individuals with animal companions while supporting shelters across the country. Marston encourages anyone with space in their heart to visit a local PetSmart during the event to potentially welcome a new family member.

PetSmart Charities has a proven track record, having facilitated over 11 million adoptions in partnership with local shelters. To expand on these efforts, the organization is also opening a new Everyday Adoption Center (EAC) in Phoenix, Arizona, providing space for up to 50 adoptable cats and dogs. This center will host an array of animals, including a cat named Daisy, who will be available for adoption at the grand opening on October 25 at 2901 W. Agua Fria Fwy.

During National Adoption Week, thousands of local shelters will showcase adoptable pets, including dogs, cats, kittens, and puppies, in nearly every PetSmart store across the U.S. and Puerto Rico. Staff and volunteers will be available to assist potential adopters with information about pet care needs.

For those unable to adopt but still wishing to support pets in need, donations can be made at PetSmartCharities.org. Individuals can also find adoptable pets, adoption centers, and events through the same website.

PetSmart Charities is dedicated to improving the lives of pets and their families, helping up to 400,000 pets find homes each year through its in-store adoption program. Additionally, the organization provides grant funding to support animal welfare initiatives, ensuring that pets receive the care they need.

With a commitment to transparency and efficiency, PetSmart Charities utilizes over 90 cents of every dollar donated to fulfill its mission. Since its establishment in 1994, the organization has granted over $500 million to support animal welfare in North America. PetSmart Charities has maintained a Four-Star Rating from Charity Navigator for the past 18 years, affirming its status as a leading nonprofit.

For further information about PetSmart Charities and its initiatives, visit www.petsmartcharities.org.