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Ways You Can Help Homeless Pets

written by

Staff Writer

November 19, 2025

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One of the most impactful ways to help homeless pets is by adopting them into your family. Providing a safe and loving environment gives a dog, cat, or small pet the chance to thrive and grow. At PetSmart Charities of Canada, we partner with animal shelters and rescue organizations across the country to help all pets find loving homes. Since 1999, we’ve helped over 425,000 pets through various adoption programs.

  • Our Everyday Adoption Centres host adoptable cats, and sometimes even rabbits, year-round at over 160 PetSmart stores.
  • Our National Adoption Week events take place three times per year and are a great opportunity to meet your perfect companion. Other local adoption events also take place in stores and bring a range of adoptable pets, like dogs and small pets.
  • Not sure where to begin? Start your adoption journey online, then schedule a meet and greet at your local PetSmart store.

When you adopt, you’re changing your life and theirs—while also helping shelters open space to care for even more pets in need.
 

VOLUNTEER: GIVE THE GIFT OF YOUR TIME 

Volunteering at animal shelters or rescue organizations is an invaluable way to support homeless pets year-round. Shelters often rely on volunteers to assist with cleaning, feeding, socializing animals, walking dogs, and organizing adoption events. Your time and dedication can make a significant difference—helping pets become more adoptable and increasing their chances of finding a loving family. Reach out to local shelters to ask about volunteer opportunities. 

DONATE: EMPOWER LIFESAVING INITIATIVES 

Consider donating to PetSmart Charities of Canada; your contribution directly supports our mission of helping pets and all who love them. Your gift provides shelters and rescue organizations with the resources they need to care for animals—improving their health, safety, and chances of adoption. 

FOSTER: A TEMPORARY HOME, A LIFESAVING IMPACT 

Fostering saves lives. By opening your home temporarily to a dog, cat, or small pet, you help shelters manage space limitations while giving pets the care and socialization they need to prepare for adoption. Contact your local shelter or rescue organization to learn more about fostering programs. 

SPREAD THE WORD: AMPLIFY THEIR VOICES 

Harness the power of social media to advocate for homeless pets. Share heartwarming stories, adorable photos, and information about adoption events to encourage others to get involved. By engaging with shelters and rescue organizations online, you amplify their message and inspire your community to take action. 

Every pet deserves the chance at a happy, loving life. By adopting, volunteering, donating, fostering, and raising awareness, you become a powerful advocate for homeless pets everywhere. Together, we can create a brighter future for millions of animals in need.

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