Don’t Shop—Adopt.

As the mom of two marvelous, malodorous, fuzzy, four-legged beasts (some like to call them “dogs”), I can offer keen insight on the joys of being a pet owner. No matter how stinky or slobbery my boys get, I cannot imagine my home without their thundering presence. Recent studies have shown the mental and physical health benefits of owning a pet—from lowering our blood pressure to boosting our immune system to loving us unconditionally (can’t say that about your ex-boyfriend, can you?), these critters are on our side.

I am the proud mother of these two rascals.

When it comes time to add a new furry friend to your family, it is imperative to do your research. Our country is suffering from severe overpopulation of household pets (depressing fact: one dog or cat is euthanized every 8 seconds) and a great way to help is adopting a homeless animal. Both of my boys are mutts and I can guarantee you that they are every bit as smart and loving as any purebred out there. Check out the adoption and pet-related events below to meet your new best buddy. Also, be sure to browse our full list here.

Puppy Mill Awareness Day at Nay Aug Park: Scranton, PA

This little guy is clearly not a fan of puppy mills.

Puppy mills are a huge problem in the United States, mainly because folks unknowingly contribute to the well-being of these operations by purchasing animals from pet stores (as opposed to an authorized breeder or adopting a shelter pet). September 17 is  Puppy Mill Awareness Day, so now is the perfect time to educate yourself and others about the horrors of puppy mills. The good people of Scranton are hosting an all-day shindig with fun for the whole family, including your pup! Enjoy great food, live music and several guest speakers.

SCGRR Golden Retriever Adoption Event: Newport Beach, CA

This beauty's name is Ivy and she's currently available for adoption through SCGRR.

If you’re looking for a purebred but don’t want to purchase one, breed-specific rescue groups are a great resource. Southern California Golden Retriever Rescue is hosting an adoption event at Muttropolis Dog & Cat Boutique. Even if you’re not looking to add another pup to your pack, this event is located in a dog-friendly outdoor shopping mall, so bring your fuzzball to shop!

Back in Black Adoption Event: North Myrtle Beach, SC

"Hey, at least I hide my dirt stains well."

Black dogs and cats don’t get a lot of love in shelters because they tend to all look alike. Adopters usually choose a more unique looking animal, leaving all the black ones behind. The Humane Society of North Myrtle Beach is having a special promotion between September 17-25 to highlight adorable, adoptable black dogs and cats of all ages. Adoption fees for these animals are reduced in hopes that they will be the first to get adopted, as opposed to the last.

Humane Haven Animal Shelter’s Senior Cat Month: Bolingbrook,IL

Cutest senior citizen ever.

Let’s face it—everyone deserves to live their golden years in a state of peace and happiness. That’s why Humane Haven Animal Shelter is underscoring the importance of adopting senior cats.  In addition to being your constant companion, older cats are low-maintenance and super snuggly. Come on, you know you can’t resist! All adoptable senior kittys will be at Petsmart throughout the month of September.