This post was made in partnership with Petco, where we believe that every animal deserves to live its best life. And together, with animal lovers like you, we’re working to create a better world for them.

As all of you know very well, I’m a huge supporter of animal adoption. Miku and all three of my cats were adopted! Knowing how many homeless animals are out there and in need of a loving home, I can’t imagine why anyone would ever want to purchase, rather than adopt. Shelters are full of various breeds, sizes, and types of animals — there is truly someone for everyone, if you’re willing to give them a chance. I recently visited the NYC ACC in Manhattan on behalf of Petco’s partnership with NBCUniversal Owned Television Stations #ClearTheShelters initiative, to photograph some of the dogs, cats, and rabbits who are in need of their forever homes.

 

We were barely able to scratch the surface, so I intend to keep going back and photographing them whenever I can, and hopefully get them into great homes! We met darling mix breeds and purebreds, puppies and seniors, kittens and cuddly adult cats, tiny toy breeds and gentle giants. But what truly can’t be properly captured in photos are their dispositions: I fell in love with every one of them, each with such distinctive personalities. Many of them were let down by the people who were supposed to love and protect them, but they were forgiving, resilient and ready for a new life. Do you know how difficult it was to not be able to take all of them home with me? But since I cannot rescue every animal I meet, I do my best to spread the word and implore you all to please, please, please adopt or foster an animal in need.

There are approximately 5 million pets in shelters and rescues every year, waiting to find a new home. This is why Petco does not sell cats and dogs, focusing instead on hosting in-store adoption events with local animal-welfare groups. They’ve helped place over 400,000 animals in new homes, each year. Bringing adoptable animals to the store’s consumers gives them the visibility they so desperately need. I want that number to continue to grow, and for the number of homeless animals to decrease. If you or someone you know are thinking of bringing a pet into your life, mark your calendar for July 23rd! Animal shelters across the country are banding together for Clear the Shelters, a nationwide pet adoption initiative that aims to connect animals in need with loving new families. But animal adoption isn’t just limited to one calendar day, so please visit your local shelters and spread the word. Adopting an animal is such a rewarding experience. Just ask my Miku, Vester, Lacy, and Kitty Boos!

Whether you’re ready to adopt your furry friend or just want to help spread the word, please consider sharing a photo of one of these adoptable animals from the NYC ACC (or your adopted animal!) with #ClearTheShelters. Every post can make a difference.

Thank you again to Petco for collaborating with me on such an important adoption day!