During National Pet Month in May, a nationwide partnership between Best Friends Animal Society and Walmart helped more than 400 cats, dogs, puppies, and kittens find forever homes through special adoption events and festivals.
- Over 400 pets adopted across 20 U.S. communities in May
- Adoption fees covered by Walmart, Blue Buffalo, and Best Friends partners
- Partnership supports no-kill animal shelter goals nationwide
What happened
In celebration of National Pet Month, Best Friends Animal Society and Walmart joined forces to hold adoption pop-up events and festivals in 20 communities across the United States. The events made adopting pets easy and accessible by offering waived adoption fees supported by Walmart, Blue Buffalo, and local Best Friends Network Partners.
Thousands of visitors came to meet adoptable animals, resulting in over 400 cats, dogs, puppies, and kittens finding new homes in a single month. The events built on the success from the previous year when a smaller-scale collaboration demonstrated the power of bringing pets directly to people in everyday community locations.
Why it feels good
Adopters like the Reyes family from Arkansas found joy in giving a shelter dog a loving home, choosing adoption over purchasing from breeders. Their new puppy, Flare, is already becoming a best friend to their young son Riah, highlighting how pets bring happiness and companionship to families.
Similarly, Walmart police officer Autumn Fettig unexpectedly adopted a puppy named Cookie Dough during her shift after connecting with the young dog’s playful spirit. These stories embody the heartwarming moments that make pet adoption a rewarding experience for both animals and people.
What to enjoy or watch next
The partnership between Best Friends and Walmart continues beyond May, with ongoing efforts to encourage adoption at Best Friends Pet Adoption Centers nationwide by covering adoption fees through the month. Community members can look forward to more events bringing awareness to no-kill shelter initiatives and ways to support homeless pets.
For those inspired to help, receiving regular animal rescue stories and tips by email from Best Friends offers a way to stay connected and engaged. Supporting local shelters and spreading the word about adoption continues to be key in achieving no-kill shelters and giving every pet a chance at a happy life.