Pet adoption is the process of transferring responsibility for a pet that was previously owned by another party. Common sources for adoptable pets are animal shelters, rescue groups, or other pet owners. Some organizations give adopters ownership of the pet, while others use a guardianship model wherein the organization retains some control over the animal's future use or care.
A dog at an animal shelter
A black cat waiting to be adopted. Because of the superstitions surrounding black cats, they are disproportionately more common in shelters than in the general population and less likely to be adopted than are cats of other colors.
A rescued BBD (Big Black Dog) from Atlantic Canada
Animal shelter for found animals in Raahe, Finland
A pet, or companion animal, is an animal kept primarily for a person's company or entertainment rather than as a working animal, livestock, or a laboratory animal. Popular pets are often considered to have attractive/cute appearances, intelligence, and relatable personalities, but some pets may be taken in on an altruistic basis and accepted by the owner regardless of these characteristics.
A tabby cat and a mixed mastiff-type dog
A Netherland Dwarf rabbit on a swing
A young black cat resting at home
A couple with their pet dog
