April 30, 2025 – Today marks National Adopt a Shelter Pet Day, a heartfelt reminder of the thousands of animals across the country patiently waiting for a second chance at love, safety, and family.
Observed annually on April 30, this day shines a spotlight on the importance of pet adoption and the life-changing impact it has—not only for the animals, but also for the people who open their hearts and homes.
Locally, shelters and rescues such as Ozarks Pet Rescue, West Plains Animal Care and Control, Mountain Grove Animal Control, and the Humane Society of Southwest Missouri are encouraging the community to consider adoption. These organizations are currently caring for cats, dogs, and other animals of all ages, sizes, and personalities—each with their own story and a hope for a forever home.
“Every animal in a shelter has a past, but what matters most is their future. When you adopt, you give them a fresh start—and in many ways, they give just as much back.”
Adoption fees often include essential services such as vaccinations, microchipping, spaying or neutering, and health checks. In some cases, especially on days like today, shelters may even waive or reduce fees to encourage more adoptions. One such example is our Featured Pet of the Day, Miss Mabel, a sweet senior pup at the City of Mountain Grove Animal Control, looking for a peaceful retirement home. You can learn more about her [here].
If adoption isn’t an option for you right now, shelters want you to know there are still many ways to help. Fostering, volunteering, donating supplies, or even sharing adoptable pet profiles online can make a meaningful impact.
This National Adopt a Shelter Pet Day, consider stopping by your local shelter or browsing their online listings. Your new best friend might be just a few miles away, waiting to become part of your story.
To learn more about adoptable pets in your area, visit:
Here are some pets that are waiting for homes today – this is not even close to all of them in our area!
