Stories of Good

Polly's Second Chance: Celebrating National Adopt a Shelter Pet Day

Written by GGC | Apr 30 2024

Saving Lives One Adoption at a Time

National Adopt a Shelter Pet Day occurs every April 30th to raise awareness for the thousands of shelter pets waiting to find their forever families.

Adopt, Don’t Shop

Right now, shelters around the country are struggling and overwhelmed with abandoned pets. According to a story by NBC News, more than 245,000 animals were in the shelter at the end of 2023 than the previous year.

 

Pets are relinquished to shelters for many heartbreaking reasons — financial or food insecurity, health concerns, loss of housing, and so much more. The number of intakes grows during puppy and kitten season each spring when shelters and rescues see an influx of litters that owners are unable to care for and a decrease in adoption rates.

Organizations rely on adoptions to provide support, essential supplies, and medical aid for new pets brought into their care. However, when faced with overcrowding issues, they may have to turn away pets in need.

Donate today to help care for shelter pets waiting for their new home.


By adopting a pet from a shelter, you are saving two lives. You are providing a loving home for a new family member and opening space for more pets to be rescued and cared for.  

Polly Pocket’s Incredible Journey

When Polly Pocket was tiny, someone put a collar on her and never took it off. As she grew, the collar began digging deep into her neck, leaving scar tissue that was strangling her. Shelter staff said it was the worst case of an embedded collar they had ever seen.  

Thanks to donations for our Emergency Animal Medical program, Polly received two life-saving surgeries. After she recovered, she was cleared for travel. She boarded a Good Flight to the Lake Lowell Animal Rescue in Idaho and was received by a loving foster home.  

We are thrilled to announce that Polly has been adopted into her forever family. In her new home, she is regularly given cuddles and treats and loves to play fetch. Her favorite spots to cuddle are on the couch while taking naps.

Photos © Lake Lowell Animal Rescue

Celebrate National Adopt a Shelter Pet Day

You can help pets like Polly. 
 
Consider adopting a dog or a cat. Visit your local shelters to meet the pets looking for their second chance. You are sure to find the perfect companion for your family.
 

If you are not ready for adoption, consider volunteering at a local shelter or raising awareness for adoption by sharing stories like Polly’s on social media.