It’s the beginning of yet another month and you know perfectly well what that means! We at Bored Panda have wrapped up a new collection of the most heartwarming photos of rescue pets floating online to share with you all. After all, around 6.3 million animals enter shelters any given year in the US alone. And while approximately 4.1 million get taken in, every single one of our four-legged companions deserves a chance at a loving home.
So let’s kick off the summer on the right foot by taking a moment to applaud the heroes who opened up their hearts and provided these goofballs with comfy beds, nutritious meals, and loving families. Luckily for us, the rescuers didn’t waste a second sharing pictures of their newly adopted adorable kittens, fluffy puppies, or other neglected souls celebrating their new forever home.
So continue scrolling to enjoy the images and upvote the ones that made you smile the widest! After you’re done, there are a lot more soul-soothing pics to catch up with, so be sure to check out our earlier pieces on this feature: April, March, and February.
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My Husband And I Adopt Old Dogs And Make Their Golden Years Great. This Is My Latest Buddy Almond And He’s An Old Man (11)
Good on you!! My Mum used to do this, she lived near a river/sea estuary and had a lovely shady not too long walk from her orchard home to the sea - one dog Miranda (an alsation/mutt something) was 12 already but lived another 5 years! Great pals, and something i want to do too when i retire!
My Turkey Has Been Trying For 3 Years To Have Babies. None Of Her Eggs Are Fertile. She Adopted Some Unwanted Eggs From My Chicken Hen And They Are Hatching. Happy New Mama!!!
To learn more about pet adoption and the key factors people should consider before welcoming a dog or cat into their home, we reached out to Clare Hemington, a cat behaviorist and owner of Honeysuckle Cat Toys which has twice been voted as Best Cat Toy in the UK. When it comes to rescuing an animal, she explained that you should do everything in your power to avoid saying, "If only I had known that before I went ahead."
"Many of the potential pitfalls that come with pet ownership can be avoided by preparation," she told Bored Panda. "So, if you think you might be interested in pet adoption, it’s important to do research to ensure you will be a suitable owner and choose the pet that’s right for you."
According to Sally Chamberlain, a UK-based clinical animal behaviorist, founder of Karma Paws Pet Care, and author of Power Of The Purr, time and money are often the biggest issues someone might have when taking this big step. "A lot of commitment is required when adopting an animal because they will need you to spend a lot of time with them, especially at first, when they are getting used to you and their new living environment," she told us.
Malcolm, Our Longest-Tenured Resident At The Shelter, Officially Got Adopted By His Foster Family
First 2 Pics Are When He Was Brought Into Perth Rescue Angles Cold, Wet, Scared And Starving About A Year Ago. 3rd Was His Adoption Profile Photo. Brought Him Home Just Over A Month Ago. His Name Is Daryl And I Would Fling Myself Into The Sun For Him
This Is Cooper, My New Puss, Recently Adopted From The Rspca. He Knows He Looks Good!
"Money is also another major consideration," Chamberlain added. "Along with veterinary bills comes the cost of food, toys, beds and other resources and enrichment items that an animal will need. Pet insurance will be another expense, and hiring a pet sitter or other pet care option when you go on holiday."
Of course, you should also be mindful of the species you want to take on so you can meet their needs and understand whether your home is suitable for them to stay happy and healthy. "For instance, do [you] have enough space for a lively dog, including a garden for them to play in and go to the toilet?" Another thing that you should take into account (and a very important one!) is that a lot of patience will be required. "It can take a long time to build a bond with an animal, especially if they have come from a difficult situation and find it hard to trust humans," Chamberlain added.
Happy Naps! My Rescue Kitten Grace Is Always So Smiley!
My Autistic Son Showing His Cat-Toy Collection Off To His Newly Adopted Shelter Kitty
They Told Us It Might Be Cancer, We Adopted Her Anyways. Turns Out She Was Just Stressed Out!
Our cat didn't get along with the other cats in the shelter, the moment we put him in the transport box he wouldn't stop purring.
aww. i hope he is less stressed, and i hope everyone is less stressed due to viewing adorable kitties!
Aren't you so Happy you took a chance on her...Hope she continues to relax in your Loving caring Home I am sure that's just exactly what she needs is being Loved And Wanted
Fur loss+lack of appetite + they may vomit+ severe weight loss. They can't talk so we don't know what's going on.
Load More Replies...I’ve had my rescue kitty for five and a half years and the fur on her tummy has just started to grow back. She overgroomed through stress.
We adopted a kitten from our vet many years ago. She was due to be euthanased on Christmas Eve because the owner didn’t want a damaged kitten. In her care, this tiny 6 week old kitten had been run over by a car and had a broken leg and was blind. It took time but she fully recovered.
My girl did the same thing when stressed. She will continuously rub her nose against stuff til it bleeds. She doesn't do it hardly at all now but when I rub her face she will headbutt me til I give her nose a good deep rub. Then she's happy. I guess cause of the scar tissue it's nice to get a good scratch in once in a while. When we adopted her she was a really scared of everything. Took her a while to open up and she would go through phases of rubbing her nose. The first place we lived with her had a brick wall area that she would rub. Getting in a place with no brick helped immensely. But even now if I hear her rubbing against a wall I'll go and love on her and "convince" her not to rub. Her collar tag makes a certain noise when she does it so she has basically trained us to intervene. She even will stare at me and rub her face like a threat so I come love on her. Cats trained me good.
After all, the feeling of adopting a four-legged companion and providing a 'furever' home to them is extremely rewarding, but this decision should not be taken lightly. "Pets can bring so much joy over many years, but it’s also important to remember that pet ownership can involve not-so-joyful chores such as cleaning out litter trays, picking up dog poop and braving all weathers to take your dog for a walk," Hemington noted.
It’s no secret that preparing to take on a new companion is far from an easy task. To avoid feeling overwhelmed by all the worries coming into your head, Chamberlain suggested making a checklist about what you can offer the rescued animal. "If you live in a small apartment with no outdoor space, then it may not be ideal to adopt an energetic young dog but an older cat that is used to an indoor lifestyle might be comfortable living in that kind of environment," she explained how you should think about your home and your lifestyle.
I Adopted This Little Guy Over The Weekend, But He’s So Sweet And Affectionate That I Feel Like He Adopted Me
My Cat Adopted This Kitten, She Dragged Him By The Neck Into The House.
Our Rescue Pittie. The Happiest Boy Ever
So when it comes to caring for our furry friends, the responsibilities go way beyond filling up the bowls with water and food. After all, animal welfare always needs to come first, Chamberlain argued. "Animals can become ill and need medical care, and they also have constant needs that have to be met on a regular basis, such as a reliable routine, food, water, flea and worm treatments, grooming, a safe place to sleep and enrichment such as play and going for a walk, amongst many other things." Even when you check every box on the list, you should think about the emotional factor as well. "Not many animals will outlive us, and we have to be prepared to make difficult decisions towards the end of their lives," the clinical animal behaviorist said.
My Friend Found A Crow Stuck In Some Cables At High Neighbor's House And Decided To Adopt It. Gave It A Chance To Leave As Well, But It Decided To Stay. Still Looking For A Name Though
This Is What Happens When You Adopt A Dog From IKEA
Meet Smurfie,just Adopted 12 Yr Old Ex Stud Cat Living His Best Life Now...
I love a cat with personality, but, to be fair, "adorable" isn't exactly the first adjective that comes to my mind in describing the facial expression. He looks more like the Brain from Pinky and the Brain. I would definitely adopt him for the grumpiness, would fit well with me.
The temptation to adopt a pet the second you step foot in the shelter can go through the roof, but it’s crucial to think deeply about the expectations you have for this relationship before making any long-lasting decisions. Hemington told us that, unfortunately, rescue pets don’t always come with background information about their upbringing and how they react in different situations, so they might not meet your criteria.
"If you are acquiring a pet from a rescue center, be sure to find out as much as possible, including the reasons for them being relinquished. This is especially important if you have young children," the cat behaviorist said. Plus, Chamberlain added that reputable charities will also carry out an interview with potential adopters to ensure they can offer a suitable home and are ready for the commitment.
Not One Adoption App For This Perfect Girl
Just Found These Weapons On A Rescue Page Near Me
Our Little (One Eyed) Rescue Cat, Rosie!
However, she would strongly advise against looking on social media or unknown websites to adopt an animal. "There is a high risk of that animal either being very ill or having serious behavioral problems, whether or not it is 'free to a good home' or the seller is asking for money. If they do have problems, there will be no support network and the seller will no doubt have disappeared and no longer be contactable once the unwitting adopter finds out why the pet was no longer wanted."
Went To The Shelter Yesterday To Adopt A Dog- Got Hexed And Came Home With This Cutie Pie Instead
Update: Ollie Got Adopted!!! 💙
I feel like pit bulls are seriously underrated and stigmatized as dogs. Correct me if I’m wrong, but in personal experience, I’ve met a lot of pitties and they’ve all been the sweetest little (or big) things, and would never hurt a fly. I wish people could be more welcoming to them, they’re always so scared of them without meeting them :/
8 Month Old I Adopted Today. Her Name Is Noodle
Hemington stressed that the most important thing is to understand the species-specific needs of your rescue pet. "Although we might think of our pets as babies in furry coats, they are very different to us humans!" She noted that another consideration is whether you already have a pet at home. "This could be a particular issue for cats who by nature are territorial and might not want to share their territory with a newcomer!"
But also, let’s not forget about the golden oldie pets, Hemington said. "They still have so much to offer, and you won’t have to worry about them ruining your soft furnishings or presenting you with live, or half-eaten wildlife. They are usually just looking for a warm bed and a safe haven in which they can live out the rest of their days."
The Best Part About Adopting An Animal Is Never Having Personal Space Again
Just Adopted This Kitty’s Mama But This Yeller Caught My Attention!!
This kitty is saying yes!!! Upvote if you can hear him too!
Yesterday I Adopted A Used Sic, 2017 Model, Chunky™ Edition. His Name Is Tj (Short For Trader Joe). Great Mileage And The Meow Motor Works Purrfectly.
Rescue pets are these little creatures that have been through a lot, so once you provide them a new loving home, their fate is in your hands. "As a general rule, it can take around three weeks for a new cat or dog to feel safe in their new home and around another three months or so for their true character to shine through as they begin to feel more comfortable," Chamberlain explained. "It can take a long time but once they are settled in and learn that they can trust you, a rescue animal can make an amazing companion, even if they’ve had a rough start in life," she concluded.
After 19 Foster Dogs, We Finally Failed To Say Goodbye To One. Happy Adoption Day, Gus!
I'm going to play my KAREN card but please understand it's more curiosity than anything else. Are his eye lashes inverted or is that just him?? I've seen bullys who had inverted lashes that looked like Gus. It required surgery to fix them. Gus is beautiful and I'm really hoping I'm wrong. ☺️☺️
My Husband Found These Cuties At The Warehouse And Brought Them Home, We're Adopting All 3 Of Them And Making Them Become Part Of Our Big, Happy Family!
Adopted A New Little Baby Hippo Yesterday!
Your new baby is the poster child for why Pitties are the sweetest dogs. Congratulations!
Photo I Found From The Day I Adopted My Puppy
We Adopted This Little Dude On 5/11. The Shelter Staff Told Us He Was Super Anxious. Turns Out He Just Needed A Stable Home… Meet Butternut.
She Took About 9 Months Of Convicing, But I Think This "Annoying Stray Cat" Aka Beauty Has Finally Adopted Me As Her Human ❤ Neighbours Called Her Ugly And Always Chased Her Off, Now She's Got A Safe Home
Raisin Had Her First Vet Appointment. She Was Dewormed. Will Go Back In 2 Weeks For Shots To Get Ready For Adoption!
Called In Sick To Work. Took My Newly Adopted Dog To The Beach On A Beautiful Spring Day
Sometimes there’s such an irresponsible and overwhelmingly GOOD reason to play hooky!
German Shepherd Corgi Mix That I Rescued Because No One Wanted Her. Her Name Is Shorto. 🥺😭
Geriatric Rescue Hippo Blue Having A Little Rest After A Very Short Wobble Using His Butt Harness Thing (We Know It As The Brazilian)
His Name Is George, My Mom Rescued From The Bushes Beside The Bank.
Rescue #4 Katie. The Sweetest Most Mellow Girl. A Family Who Were Moving Didn’t Want Her Anymore And We Got The Call.
I know there may be extenuating circumstances, but I would never give up a pet because I was moving.
Happy Rescue From Romania
My Wife And I Officially Adopted These Two Today . After Taking Care Of Them For The Better Part Of 3 Years Our Landlord Decided To Give Them To Us . Our Hearts Are Filled With Joy At Knowing We Will Never Have To Separate Again !
TBH, they were already yours for threes years. Your landlord just made it official.
Rescued This Little Boy From The Shelter, He Will Never Have Another Hard Day For The Rest Of His Life
Black Hole Sun, Won't You Come... Absolutely In Love With This Sweet Void We Adopted Last Week
That hanging sun is amazing. Was it designed for the cat to sit on it?
Just Adopted This Guy, Meet Barry.
Dobby (Smol Boi) & Kreacher - Rarely Every Apart. My Foster Fails As I Couldn’t Guarantee An Adoption Together And Tbf, They Had Already Made Me Their Bonded Third!
I believe it’s much harder trying to find a home for two animals together. Awesome that these guys found their home!
Meet Jiji! My Freshly Adopted 10 Year Old Void
I adopted my 10 year old black kitty a couple of years ago and named her JiJi! 🖤🖤🖤
The GF And I Adopted Our Very Own Little Twin Voids 🐈⬛🐈⬛ Soup(L) And Sandwich(R)
Can you imagine shouting those names in anger? For instance, stepping in a hairball mess, "Godd*mmit, SOUP!"
Went To Adopt One Kitten And Came Home With Two Baby Voids! They’re Siblings And I Didn’t Want To Split Them Up
Day 10 Since I Adopter Her. Can’t Imagine A Life Without Her Anymore
Rescued Her 2 Weeks Ago And Her Favorite Thing To Do Is Yell At Us
Local Vet Rescued This Little One, Hand Reared Him For 5 Weeks And He’s Too Tame To Release. Soooo He’s Moved In With Me :) Meet Ronnie
I'm Going To Adopt This Lil Guy Tomorrow. Name Suggestions? :d He Is The Sole Survivor Of The Litter
I Adopted Two Kittens During Quarantine, And They Immediately Became Attached To My Elderly Boy
My Kittens Mugshot From The Humane Society We Adopted Her From
I found this little guy abandoned and living in a sad little nest in someone's woodpile. His skin was hanging off his bones and there were infected scabs on his tail, but the moment I got him home he was trying to climb onto my shoulder. I nursed him back to health and he became my best friend for the rest of his life. A decade later and I still miss him. Bran-629de...f9b3be.jpg
Thank you for providing that little soul with a wonderful home. I miss my pet rats too. Great pets x
Load More Replies...Off topic: Does anyone here have some tips. My cat is very shy around other people and cats. I have 2 stray cats I take care off (food and cuddles) but I don't know how to introduce them to my cat. The 2 stray cats hiss and I don't know what to do. I would love to adopt them but my cat has priority. Any tips please....
Mostly patience. A stray cat adopted us but one of ours hated her. We kept them in separate rooms for safety until he got used to the idea of her being in the house but it took a good six months before he really accepted her. They were purrfectly happy in the end 😻. Try feeding them at the same time but on opposite sides of a door and make sure you have one litter tray for each cat plus one extra.
Load More Replies...I got a New Guinea pig yesterday, our old one unfortunately passed away from several medical conditions common in guinea pigs:
This Is Pigwidgeon, the guinea who died. 31E77DB4-8...4-jpeg.jpg
Load More Replies...This was my favourite rescue. Not the guy, although he comes a close second, lol! The cat, Doc (his brother was Sherlock, but he died from malnutrition before we could save him), was the sweetest and smartest cat I ever had the pleasure of sharing my life with. Lost him thanks to a jerk of an upstairs neighbour, but that's another tale along the riverbank. Long live, Doc! George-and...00151f.jpg
I found this little guy abandoned and living in a sad little nest in someone's woodpile. His skin was hanging off his bones and there were infected scabs on his tail, but the moment I got him home he was trying to climb onto my shoulder. I nursed him back to health and he became my best friend for the rest of his life. A decade later and I still miss him. Bran-629de...f9b3be.jpg
Thank you for providing that little soul with a wonderful home. I miss my pet rats too. Great pets x
Load More Replies...Off topic: Does anyone here have some tips. My cat is very shy around other people and cats. I have 2 stray cats I take care off (food and cuddles) but I don't know how to introduce them to my cat. The 2 stray cats hiss and I don't know what to do. I would love to adopt them but my cat has priority. Any tips please....
Mostly patience. A stray cat adopted us but one of ours hated her. We kept them in separate rooms for safety until he got used to the idea of her being in the house but it took a good six months before he really accepted her. They were purrfectly happy in the end 😻. Try feeding them at the same time but on opposite sides of a door and make sure you have one litter tray for each cat plus one extra.
Load More Replies...I got a New Guinea pig yesterday, our old one unfortunately passed away from several medical conditions common in guinea pigs:
This Is Pigwidgeon, the guinea who died. 31E77DB4-8...4-jpeg.jpg
Load More Replies...This was my favourite rescue. Not the guy, although he comes a close second, lol! The cat, Doc (his brother was Sherlock, but he died from malnutrition before we could save him), was the sweetest and smartest cat I ever had the pleasure of sharing my life with. Lost him thanks to a jerk of an upstairs neighbour, but that's another tale along the riverbank. Long live, Doc! George-and...00151f.jpg