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Petco Love Adopt: How to Find Dogs and Adoption Events Near You
A guide to Petco Love Adopt: what the nonprofit does, how to search adoptable dogs, how in-store adoption events work and what to ask the partner group before adopting.
Petco Love Adopt is the adoption program of Petco Love, a national nonprofit that started out as the Petco Foundation. It brings together an online pet search and in-person adoption events, many of them held at Petco stores with local shelters and rescue groups. Here is what to expect.
What Petco Love Adopt is
Petco Love Adopt connects would-be adopters with pets cared for by local animal welfare organizations. On its website you can search adoptable pets in your community, find adoption events and read resources for new pet parents. In many Petco locations, partner groups show adoptable animals in adoption areas or bring dogs in for weekend events.
It is worth knowing that Petco Love runs a different tool called Petco Love Lost, which helps reunite lost and found pets using photo matching. That service is not an adoption site, so make sure you are on the adoption pages when you are looking for a new dog.
How to use it step by step
- Search adoptable pets. Choose dogs and enter your location to see animals available near you.
- Look for events. Check the events listings for upcoming adoption days at local Petco stores or community venues.
- Read the profile. Each pet is cared for by a partner shelter or rescue. Note that group's name and requirements.
- Contact the partner group. Ask questions and request the application. The partner decides on approvals and fees.
- Meet the dog. Visit during store hours or attend an event to spend time with the dog before committing.
What it costs and what to expect
Fees are set by the partner shelter or rescue, and special events sometimes feature reduced or waived fees, which are announced by the organizers. Ask what is included, such as vaccinations, a microchip or spay and neuter surgery. Some partners can complete an adoption on the spot, while others need time to review your application, check references or arrange a home visit.
Events can be busy. Arrive with time to spare, and be prepared that a particular dog may already have been adopted.
Tips before you apply
- Check details close to the date. Event times and participating groups can change, so confirm shortly before you go.
- Pre-apply when possible. Some groups let you submit an application in advance, which can make event day smoother.
- Bring documents. A photo ID, proof of address and landlord approval if you rent are common requests.
- Think about fit, not just looks. Ask about energy level, training and how the dog does with children and other pets.
- Prepare your home first. Have food, a bed, a leash and a quiet area ready before you bring a dog home.
- Keep the first days simple. A new dog may be tired, nervous or overexcited after a busy event. Give them a calm space, a predictable routine and time to explore before introducing lots of new people, places or other animals.
Petco Love Adopt is a practical option if you enjoy meeting dogs in person and want to see several local groups in one place.
Frequently asked questions
Is Petco Love part of the Petco store?
Petco Love is a national nonprofit that began as the Petco Foundation. It partners with local animal welfare groups, many of which hold adoptions at Petco stores.
Who sets the adoption fee at a Petco event?
The partner shelter or rescue caring for the dog sets the fee and the requirements, and handles the application.
Is Petco Love Lost an adoption site?
No. Petco Love Lost is a lost-and-found pet tool. For adoption, use the Petco Love Adopt pages.
Sources
Disclaimer: This guide is general information only and may not fit your situation or country. Rules, prices and requirements change, so check the details with the official source or a qualified professional before you act. Read our full disclaimer.