194 saved#1,046 of 6,224

Adopt a Shelter Dog Month

Help save a life and find your new best friend this Adopt a Shelter Dog Month. Adoption events, promotions, and plenty of love to go around!

Thursday

1–31

October 2026

Last updated February 7, 2026 · by the Holiday Calendar Team

Have an update or spot an error?

YEARLY DATEAll of October

OBSERVED INUnited States

CATEGORYAnimals

SUBCATEGORYDogs

INTRO

Introduction

PHOTO

October 1 marks the beginning of Adopt a Shelter Dog Month, a special time to encourage people to open their hearts and homes to furry friends in need. This month was designated by the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) in 1981 as a way to raise awareness about the millions of dogs waiting to be adopted from shelters across the country. Not only does adopting a shelter dog bring joy and companionship into your life, but it also helps save a precious life and gives these animals a second chance at happiness. Let's celebrate this month by considering adoption as the best option when looking for a new furry family member.

TIMELINE

Adopt a Shelter Dog Month Timeline

Formation of ASPCA

The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA), the first animal welfare organization in the U.S., is founded by Henry Bergh.

First American Animal Shelter

The first animal shelter in the U.S., The Women's Branch of the Pennsylvania Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, is created.

Animal Rescue League

The Animal Rescue League of Boston starts providing services and care for stray dogs and cats, contributing to the shelter dog adoption movement.

Animal Welfare Act Passed

The U.S. government passes the Animal Welfare Act to oversee the treatment of animals in research and exhibitions, reinforcing animal rights.

Adopt a Shelter Dog Month

The ASPCA declares October as Adopt a Shelter Dog Month to raise awareness for shelter animals and encourage adoptions.

Maddie's Fund Large-Scale Adoption Event

Maddie's Fund sponsors a large-scale adoption event, "Maddie's Pet Adoption Days", allowing shelters to waive adoption fees to boost pet adoption, featuring numerous shelter dogs.

GET INVOLVED

How to Celebrate Adopt a Shelter Dog Month

Host a dog adoption event

Partner with your local animal shelter and organize a dog adoption event. This is a great way to raise awareness about shelter dogs and help them find their forever homes.

VOLUNTEER

Volunteer at a shelter

Spend some time volunteering at a shelter during Adopt a Shelter Dog Month. You can help with tasks such as walking dogs, cleaning cages, or playing with the animals. It's a rewarding experience for both you and the dogs.

Share adoption success stories

Share heartwarming stories of shelter dog adoptions on your social media platforms. This can inspire others to adopt and also highlight the amazing work that shelters do in finding loving homes for these dogs.

FOSTER

Foster a shelter dog

Consider fostering a shelter dog during Adopt a Shelter Dog Month. This not only helps alleviate overcrowding at shelters, but also gives you the opportunity to provide a temporary home for a dog in need.

ORGANIZE

Organize a fundraiser

Raise money for your local shelter by organizing a fundraiser. This could be a bake sale, a charity walk, or an online donation drive. All proceeds can go towards helping shelter dogs find loving homes.

WHY THIS DAY MATTERS

Why Adopt a Shelter Dog Month is Important

Promote pet adoption and reduce overpopulation

By adopting from a shelter instead of purchasing from a breeder or pet store, you are helping to reduce the overpopulation of animals in shelters. This also promotes the idea of giving shelter dogs a chance, rather than perpetuating the cycle of pet overproduction and abandonment.

Save a life and give a dog a second chance

By adopting a shelter dog, you are giving them a loving home and a chance to live out their days with love and happiness. Most shelter dogs are abandoned or surrendered by their owners, and by choosing to adopt, you are rescuing them from potential euthanasia in overcrowded shelters.

Shelter dogs are often already trained and well-socialized

Contrary to popular belief, shelter dogs can make wonderful pets. Many have already been trained or socialized by previous owners, making the transition into your home much easier. Plus, older shelter dogs may require less attention and training compared to puppies.

Related holidays

FRI

Apr 2026

Animals

National Adopt A Shelter Pet Day

Show your love and support this National Adopt A Shelter Pet Day - make a difference to an animal in need by adopting a pet today!

Celebrate Shelter Pets Day

Show your love for shelter pets this Celebrate Shelter Pets Day - adopt, donate, or simply spread the word and make a difference!

National Animal Shelter Appreciation Week

Join in National Animal Shelter Appreciation Week! Celebrate our furry friends and the shelters that give them a chance at a better life.

National Foster a Pet Month

Ready to make a difference in the life of a furry friend? Join us this National Foster a Pet Month and give an animal in need a loving home!

320Read

FOR MARKETERS & CREATORS

Turn every day into a moment your audience actually shows up for.

8.4M

Monthly readers

5K+

Holidays tracked

Holiday Calendar for Brands Developer API