- The ASPCA’s Rescue Effect campaign is encouraging pet adoption and fostering during Adopt a Shelter Dog Month.
- The ASPCA provided $2 million in grants to help 200 participating shelters waive adoption fees and cover operating costs.
- Subaru retailers will provide more than $3 million in additional funding through ASPCA-administered grants to local animal welfare organizations in October.
- Nearly 3 million dogs entered U.S. shelters and rescues in 2025, according to the ASPCA.
- Hundreds of shelters and rescue organizations are participating in the Rescue Effect campaign through the end of October.
- Funding from Subaru will support adoption preparation, veterinary expenses and other shelter needs.
The ASPCA and Subaru of America are directing millions of dollars toward animal shelters and adoption programs this fall as part of a national effort to encourage more people to adopt or foster dogs.
The initiative coincides with Adopt a Shelter Dog Month and comes as shelters across the country continue to face capacity pressures and longer stays for dogs awaiting homes.
The ASPCA said nearly 3 million dogs entered shelters and rescue organizations in the United States during 2025.
$2 million supports adoption campaign
The ASPCA launched its Rescue Effect campaign in August, with hundreds of shelters and rescue organizations participating nationwide through the end of October.
As part of the initiative, the organization provided $2 million in grants to 200 participating shelters. The funding is intended to help shelters waive adoption fees and offset operating expenses while encouraging more people to bring animals into their homes.
Christa Chadwick, senior vice president of shelter services for the ASPCA, said adoption can have an impact beyond the individual animal by freeing shelter space and resources for other pets in need.
For people who are not ready to adopt, the organization is also encouraging fostering as another way to help shelters increase available capacity.
Subaru directs additional funding to shelters
Subaru retailers are providing another source of financial support through the automaker’s Subaru Loves Pets initiative.
During October, retailers nationwide will provide more than $3 million through ASPCA-administered grants to local animal welfare organizations.
The money will support veterinary expenses, preparing animals for adoption and other needs. Subaru retailers are also hosting adoption and community events with animal welfare organizations around the country.
Campaign enlists public figures
The Rescue Effect campaign is also using celebrities, athletes and other public figures to increase awareness of adoption and fostering.
Participants include Gavin Rossdale, Megan Thee Stallion and The Pete & Thomas Foundation, Maxwell Jenkins, Camilla Luddington, Nia Sioux, Maggie Q, former Los Angeles Dodgers player Chris Taylor, Susie Evans, Kathryn Hurley and Jason Tartick.
Digital and social media advertising is also running in select markets to encourage people to adopt and support local shelters.
Adoption events planned during October
The ASPCA Adoption Center is participating in community events throughout New York City during Adopt a Shelter Dog Month, including the Tompkins Square Halloween Dog Parade in partnership with Animal Care Centers of NYC.
The organization is also directing prospective adopters and foster caregivers to animals in its care in New York City, Los Angeles, Asheville, North Carolina, and Columbus, Ohio.
The ASPCA said its broader Rescue Effect campaign is intended to shorten the amount of time animals spend in shelters while generating additional support for animal welfare organizations facing capacity and resource challenges.
Information sourced from the company’s press release.
