In neighborhoods across the United States, families are meeting their new four-legged companions with the help of Pet Supplies Plus and Wag N’ Wash. The two pet retail brands, united by their commitment to animal welfare, have already helped 19,303 pets find loving homes this year. Their sights are firmly set on a 2025 goal: to place 20,000 shelter dogs and cats with families who will give them the second chance they deserve.
The initiative builds on the success of 2024, when the companies surpassed their pledge of supporting 15,000 adoptions. Through partnerships with local rescues and shelters, as well as a steady calendar of in-store adoption events, Pet Supplies Plus and Wag N’ Wash are creating opportunities for prospective pet parents to meet adoptable animals face-to-face.
Adoption Efforts Backed by Urgent Need
The stakes are high. According to the Shelter Animals Count National Database, an estimated 2.8 million dogs and cats entered shelters in the first half of 2025. During that same period, about 366,000 animals faced non-live outcomes such as euthanasia or passing in care. While adoptions remain strong nationwide, they have declined slightly compared to 2024, and adult and senior dogs are struggling to find homes.
Chris Rowland, CEO of Pet Supplies Plus and Wag N’ Wash, emphasized the importance of continued momentum. “We are proud of the progress we’ve made toward our 2025 goal, but the work is far from done,” he said. “Each adoption is another life changed for the better – not just for the pet, but for the family they’re joining. We encourage everyone to consider adoption and experience the joy a furry friend can bring into your life.”
For many shelters, the brands’ support helps ease overcrowding and increases visibility for animals that might otherwise go unnoticed.
Community Outreach Through Shelter Shoutout Series
In addition to adoption events, Pet Supplies Plus recently launched the Shelter Shoutout Series, a bi-monthly initiative spotlighting rescue organizations and shelter staff who play a vital role in rehoming pets. The program also provides food donations through a partnership with Hill’s Science Diet and celebrates volunteers, veterinarians, and store associates making a difference.
So far, Shelter Shoutout events have taken place in Western Michigan, Chicago, and Jacksonville. Future stops include Austin, Texas and Charleston, South Carolina, reflecting the program’s commitment to reaching diverse communities across the country.
By amplifying local stories, the series highlights the challenges shelters face and the impact community members can make when they step forward to adopt, foster, or donate.
Making Adoption Accessible Nationwide
The brands’ growing network of stores allows them to bring adoption opportunities directly into neighborhoods. Pet Supplies Plus offers a wide selection of natural pet foods, treats baked fresh in-store, and services such as grooming, self-serve wash stations, and prescription fulfillment. The neighborly approach—where team members learn pets and owners by name creates a sense of trust and community, making the adoption process feel less intimidating and more personal.
Wag N’ Wash complements these efforts with its focus on grooming and wellness services. At each location, customers can choose between two primary options. A self-serve pet wash stations that are stocked with everything from shampoos to aprons or full-service grooming salons staffed by professionals. The stores also carry an assortment of food, toys, supplements, and accessories for dogs and cats.
By offering these resources alongside adoption events, both brands ensure that new pet parents leave with not only a companion but also the tools and knowledge needed to care for them.
Looking Toward the Future
As 2025 continues, Pet Supplies Plus and Wag N’ Wash are poised to surpass their adoption goal of 20,000 pets. Yet leaders acknowledge the number is not just a milestone; it represents thousands of individual stories of transformation. For each animal, adoption means the transition from a kennel to a couch, from uncertainty to stability.
The brands’ sustained commitment to adoption awareness, paired with their partnerships with local rescues, positions them as steady advocates for animals in need. And for families nationwide, the initiative provides a pathway to the simple but profound joy of welcoming a pet into their lives.
Why It Matters
The numbers are sobering: millions of animals still wait in shelters, with adoption rates trending downward for older dogs and cats. But the collaborative work of retailers, rescues, and communities demonstrates that progress is possible. With franchise heart every event hosted and every Shelter Shoutout shared, Pet Supplies Plus and Wag N’ Wash are helping to write a better ending for animals that might otherwise be forgotten.
As Rowland reminds prospective adopters, the impact extends beyond the pets themselves. “Each adoption is another life changed for the better – not just for the pet, but for the family they’re joining.”
For animal lovers considering adoption, the message is clear: the opportunity to make a difference is closer than you think, perhaps just around the corner at your local pet supply store.
