Josh Duhamel Supports Socially Responsible Action for Homeless Pets

A husky dog called Dodge was the five millionth pet adopted through PetSmart Charities. He was adopted by George Little, a retired U.S. Marine and Husky lover. Dodge now lives with George and his family.

In order to celebrate the milestone achievement, actor Josh Duhamel has lent his support to PetSmart Charities to launch the "High-Five for Pet Adoption" campaign celebrating the five million pets' lives that have been saved through PetSmart Charities' Adoption Centers. The figure corresponds to 10 per cent of all adoptions in North America. The campaign aims to increase public awareness of the importance of adopting neglected pets.

"Pet adoption changed my life when we were looking to find a companion for our 7-year-old dachshund, Zoe. Soon after adopting Meatloaf, I learned that these pets are just grateful for the love you have to give them," said Duhamel. "I'm shocked by the statistics of the homeless pet problem. I encourage everyone to bring the joy of an adopted pet into their lives and help save millions more pets."

It is estimated that eight million pets end up in shelters in North America. Sadly, half of them will be euthanized, or 11,000 adoptable pets. It's a heart-breaking statistic that only spay/neuter and adoption actions can help offset.

The PetSmart Charities networks saves on average 1,100 pets a day, or about 40,000 pets every year since its foundation in 1994. The adoption centers are located inside PetSmart stores in the U.S., Canada and Puerto Rico and help local non-profit groups make homeless pets available for adoption.

PetSmart Charities and its more than 2,000 animal rescue partners rely on public donations to fund its adoption programs. During the "High-Five for Pet Adoption" campaign, PetSmart Charities aims to raise $250,000 which is enough to save 10,000 homeless pets. Those interested in supporting the initiative can do it via SMS, sending TextPETS to 80888*, or via their Pet Smart Charities website.

"With the support of a leading celebrity like Josh to raise awareness about the importance of pet adoption, we aim to save millions more lives. Through the 'High-Five for Pet Adoption' campaign, we want to make sure others know they can help through simple actions like choosing to adopt, giving back and sharing your adoption story. Everyone can contribute to finding a lifelong, loving home for every pet," said Susana Della Maddalena, executive director of PetSmart Charities.

Image credit: PetSmart Charities