Save a Life for Free: California Adopt-a-Pet Day Returns June 7
Great news for California pet lovers — the second annual California Adopt-a-Pet Day is happening on Saturday, June 7, 2025, and it's shaping up to be even bigger and better than last year.
This statewide adoption event is organized by the California Animal Welfare Association (CalAnimals) in collaboration with the ASPCA and San Francisco SPCA (SF SPCA). Over 150 shelters across California will participate, offering fee-waived adoptions for dogs, cats, horses, and other small animals — thanks to generous grants from the ASPCA covering the adoption fees.
Why This Day Matters
California Adopt-a-Pet Day isn’t just about finding homes for shelter animals — it’s about shining a light on the importance of adoption, supporting local shelters, and giving families the chance to meet incredible animals in need of loving homes.
Last year’s event exceeded expectations by a long shot, with 3,609 animals adopted in a single day, crushing the goal of 2,024 adoptions. This year, the bar is set even higher: 5,000 animals adopted in one day.
Whether you’re thinking about adding a new pet to your home or just want to support local shelters, this is a great day to get involved.
What You Can Expect on June 7
Adoption fees waived at over 150 participating shelters
Pre-screened pets: Most will already be spayed/neutered, vaccinated, and microchipped
A chance to meet pets of all breeds, ages, sizes, and energy levels
Help from shelter staff to match you with the right animal for your lifestyle
In other words, you’re not just getting a pet — you’re welcoming a fully prepped companion and freeing up shelter space for the next animal in need.
Why Events Like This Are So Important
Shelters across California — especially in cities like Los Angeles, which takes in about 60,000 animals per year — are facing significant challenges. A national shortage of veterinary professionals, lack of access to affordable vet care, and pet-friendly housing shortages are making it harder than ever for shelters to keep up.
Meanwhile, only 30% of households adopt their pets from shelters or rescues. By increasing that number just a little, we could help thousands more animals each year find the homes they deserve.
How You Can Help
Adopt: Visit CAAdoptAPetDay.org to find a participating shelter near you.
Spread the word: Share the event on social media using #CAAdoptAPetDay
Volunteer or foster: Many shelters need extra hands to prepare for the big day.
Encourage friends and family to consider adoption if they’re thinking about getting a pet.
“When you adopt from a shelter, you're not just giving one animal a loving home — you're also making room for another animal in need,” says Matt Bershadker, President and CEO of the ASPCA.
Whether you’re ready to adopt or simply want to support your local shelter, California Adopt-a-Pet Day is your chance to make a real difference. Every adoption saves a life, creates space for more animals in need, and helps build a more compassionate community.
Even if you’re not looking to adopt right now, you can still play a part — by sharing the event, encouraging friends and family, or volunteering your time. Together, we can help thousands of animals find the loving homes they deserve.
