What PetSmart Charities does at adoption events

PetSmart Charities is a nonprofit organization that runs adoption events inside PetSmart stores across the United States. At these events, adoptable dogs, cats, rabbits, and other small animals are brought in from local shelters and rescue groups. You can meet the animals, learn about their backgrounds, and complete an adoption on the spot or take the paperwork home to think it over.

PetSmart Charities does not own the animals — they partner with local shelters and rescue organizations to provide the space, volunteers, and adoption support. The animals stay only for the event, then return to their shelter or rescue if not adopted. PetSmart Charities handles the logistics and helps match people with pets, but the shelter or rescue group you work with is responsible for the final adoption decision and paperwork.

Key Takeaways

  • PetSmart Charities events happen inside PetSmart stores and feature animals from local shelters and rescues, not animals owned by PetSmart Charities itself.
  • You can meet animals in person, ask questions about their behavior and medical history, and complete adoption paperwork during the event.
  • The shelter or rescue group partnering with PetSmart Charities makes the final adoption decision and handles the legal paperwork.
  • Adoption fees vary by shelter and animal type, and PetSmart Charities does not set or collect these fees.
  • You can find upcoming events by visiting the PetSmart Charities website or calling your local PetSmart store to ask when the next adoption event is scheduled.

How to find a PetSmart Charities adoption event near you

The PetSmart Charities website has an event finder tool where you enter your zip code and see adoption events scheduled at PetSmart locations in your area. Events are typically held on weekends, though some stores host them on weekday evenings. The calendar shows the date, time, and which shelter or rescue group will be present.

If the website tool does not show events in your area, call your local PetSmart store directly. The store manager or adoption event coordinator can tell you whether events are planned and when the next one is scheduled. Some stores host events monthly, while others do them less frequently depending on shelter partnerships and store capacity.

What to expect when you arrive at an event

When you walk into a PetSmart Charities event, you will see animals in temporary enclosures or pens set up in a designated area of the store. Volunteers and staff from the partnering shelter or rescue will be present to answer questions about each animal's age, temperament, medical history, and any special needs. You can spend time with animals you are interested in, ask about their behavior around children or other pets, and get a sense of their personality.

The shelter or rescue staff will also explain their adoption process. Some organizations require a home visit before adoption, others ask for references, and most require proof of address and identification. If you want to move forward, you will fill out an adoption form with the shelter or rescue representative right there at the event. The form typically asks about your living situation, whether you have other pets, and your experience with animals.

Adoption fees and what they cover

Adoption fees are set by the shelter or rescue group, not by PetSmart Charities. Fees vary widely depending on the animal's age, breed, and medical care already provided. A cat adoption might cost $50 to $150, while a dog adoption often ranges from $75 to $300 or more. The shelter staff at the event will tell you the exact fee for any animal you are interested in.

The adoption fee typically covers the animal's medical care up to that point — usually spay or neuter surgery, vaccinations, and a health check. Some shelters include a microchip or a starter bag of food. Ask the shelter representative what is included in the fee and whether they offer a trial period or return policy if the adoption does not work out.

The adoption approval process

After you complete the adoption form, the shelter or rescue group reviews your information to make sure the animal is a good fit for your home. This review can happen the same day or may take a few days. Some organizations call references or conduct a home visit before approving an adoption. Others make a decision on the spot based on the form and your conversation with staff.

If you are approved, you will receive adoption paperwork that transfers ownership of the animal to you. This paperwork includes the animal's medical records, vaccination history, and microchip information if applicable. Keep these documents in a safe place — you will need them for veterinary care and if you ever need to prove ownership.

What happens if you are not approved

If the shelter or rescue decides the adoption is not a good match, they will explain their reasons. Common reasons include concerns about the animal's needs not fitting your living situation, lack of experience with that type of animal, or a mismatch between the animal's temperament and your household. The decision is final, but you can ask whether a different animal might be a better fit or whether you can reapply in the future.

If you are not approved, you have not lost anything — the shelter is protecting both you and the animal. Ask the staff whether they have other animals available or whether you can return to a future event to meet other pets.

After you take your pet home

Once the adoption is complete, the animal is yours. Schedule a veterinary appointment within the first week to confirm the animal's health and establish care. Bring your adoption paperwork and vaccination records so your veterinarian can review the animal's medical history and plan any follow-up care.

Most shelters and rescues offer post-adoption support — you can call or email with questions about behavior, feeding, or adjustment. Some provide a trial period where you can return the animal if it is not working out, though this varies by organization. Ask about this when you complete your adoption paperwork.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I adopt an animal at a PetSmart Charities event if I rent my home?

Most shelters and rescues will work with renters, but you will need to provide proof that your lease allows pets. Bring a copy of your lease or a letter from your landlord stating that pets are permitted. Some organizations require landlord contact information so they can verify this directly.

What if I want to adopt but the animal is not approved for me that day?

You can ask the shelter or rescue whether you can reapply or whether a different animal might be a better fit. Some organizations will work with you to address their concerns — for example, if they worry about space, you might show them photos of your home or provide more references. Ask what steps you can take to be approved in the future.

Do I need to bring anything to the adoption event?

Bring a photo ID and proof of address, such as a utility bill or lease. Have your veterinarian's contact information ready if you have owned pets before — many shelters call references. If you have questions about a specific animal, write them down beforehand so you do not forget to ask the shelter staff.

What if the animal I adopt gets sick shortly after I bring it home?

Contact your veterinarian first. Then reach out to the shelter or rescue group — most stand behind their animals' health and may cover veterinary costs for illnesses present at the time of adoption. Ask about their health may provide when you complete your adoption paperwork so you know what is covered.

Can I return an animal if the adoption does not work out?

Return policies vary by shelter and rescue. Some offer a trial period of one to two weeks, while others do not allow returns. Ask about this before you finalize the adoption so you understand what happens if the animal does not fit your home. If a return is not possible, the shelter may help you find another home for the animal.