Pet Adoption Apps
Find a friend. Save a life.
Petfinder
FREEBiggest pet adoption site. Photos + bios from 11,000+ shelters/rescues.
Most popular.
Adopt a Pet
FREESame idea. Often shows different pets than Petfinder.
Use both.
BestFriends.org
FREEBest Friends Animal Society network. Save Them All movement.
No-kill focused.
Local shelter websites
FREESearch "[your city] animal shelter" or "[county] humane society".
Direct from source.
Foster-based rescues
FREE adoption fees vary $50-500Pets live in foster homes — well-known temperaments. Better matches.
Best for finding right fit.
Senior pet adoption
Often reduced/freeMany shelters waive fees for seniors adopting senior pets.
Win-win — older pets need homes most.
"Seniors for Seniors" programs
Many US shelters have a "Seniors for Seniors" program — adopt a senior pet for free or reduced fee.
- Senior pets often house-trained, mellow, lower-energy.
- Reduced or waived adoption fees ($0-50 vs $200-500).
- Some include free vet visit + initial supplies.
- Fewer training challenges than puppy.
- Search "[your city] seniors for seniors" or call local shelter.
Considerations for older adopters
- Outliving the pet — talk to family. Have a plan if pet outlives you.
- Mobility — cats, smaller dogs, older dogs better than energetic puppies.
- Allergies — try a "meet and greet" or foster first.
- Vet costs — average $1,000-2,500/year. Pet insurance ($30-60/month) helps with surgeries.
- Grooming + walking help — Rover, local dog walkers.
Foster first
Many shelters have "foster-to-adopt" programs. Take a pet home for 2-4 weeks. If it works — adopt. If not — return without judgment. Lowers risk dramatically.
Best fit for many seniors
Adult cats (2-7 years old) — already house-trained, social, lower-maintenance than dogs. Many languish in shelters because puppies/kittens get adopted first. Save a life and gain a quiet companion.