Actress Lucy Hale Teams with PetSmart to Champion Pet Adoption

Actress Lucy Hale is teaming with PetSmart to encourage people to adopt a pet to boost their well-being and relieve overcrowded shelters. Dogs, puppies, cats and kittens will be available for adoption through nonprofit PetSmart Charities and animal welfare partners at PetSmart stores across the country during PetSmart Charities National Adoption Week, July 10-16, 2023.

Hale, an advocate for mental health, has been vocal about how being a dog mom to Elvis and rescue pup Ethel has helped her through difficult times. Research has consistently shown that pets can have a positive impact on cognitive, emotional and physical health. Offering companionship, unconditional love and support, pets bring joy to the lives of those who care for them.

“I’ve been open about my journey through mental health and wellness. My dogs Elvis and Ethel have been my strength – a constant source of comfort and companionship,” Hale said. “I want to encourage others to discover the power and joy of the human-animal bond. Shelters across the US are at or beyond capacity and I’m encouraging people to open their hearts and homes to a new pet during PetSmart Charities National Adoption Week.”

During PetSmart Charities National Adoption Week, nearly every PetSmart store will offer the opportunity to meet and adopt pets in need of loving homes. Staff and volunteers from local animal welfare organizations will be on hand to help potential adopters learn more about the pets they are interested in and ensure they feel confident in caring for them.

For more information on what to prepare for and ask in advance of adopting a cat or dog, visit here.

Many shelters are at capacity and the need for adoption of all pets is great. However, animal welfare organizations are especially looking to find loving homes specifically for cats right now. Shelters across the nation are in the thick of kitten season, a time when the feline population drastically increases as most kitten litters are born throughout the summer months.

“During PetSmart Charities National Adoption week this summer, we’re on a lifesaving mission,” said Aimee Gilbreath, President of PetSmart Charities. “The need for adoptions is high to alleviate overcrowding and get more pets into loving families. We have hope and are grateful to have the support of Lucy Hale in raising awareness at this critical time. When you share your home with a pet in need, they in turn show you love and gratitude. And if you’ve never thought of yourself as a cat person, we encourage you to do some meet and greets and fall in love with a new feline companion.”

Those who aren’t quite ready to expand their family can still make a big impact by donating to help pets in need at PetSmart Charities. They also can find their match when the time is right by visiting PetSmart Charities. for adoptable pets, adoption centers and events near them.