As the animal shelter crisis continues in the U.S., with 5.8 million cats and dogs entering shelters and rescues in 2025, one of the biggest ways to combat the issue is through adoption. For prospective first-time pet parents, the idea of bringing home a dog or cat can feel overwhelming.

Adoption Advice from Hannah Shaw

Hannah Shaw, also known as the ‘Kitten Lady,’ is an award-winning kitten rescuer and humane advocate. She has adopted cats and dogs from shelters herself and understands the challenges that come with it. Shaw suggests taking the first step of simply heading out to a shelter or an adoption event with an open mind.

‘See who you might meet — you might be surprised by who you fall in love with,’ Shaw said. ‘My biggest tip is just don’t have a super-rigid idea of what you’re looking for. Keep an open mind.’ She also stressed that you don’t need to be an expert to give a pet a forever home. ‘You really just have to have an open mind and an open heart and have love to give,’ Shaw added.

If you decide you aren’t quite ready to adopt but still want to help shelter animals, there are other ways to do so, including fostering pets or volunteering at a local shelter. Shaw has teamed up with Hill’s Pet Nutrition to promote adoptions amid the Clear The Shelters campaign, which is being held throughout August.

Original reporting: NBC Connecticut (Hartford) — read the source article.