Fall in Love at PetSmart Charities of Canada National Adoption Week
Local shelters and rescues bring adoptable cats, kittens, dogs, puppies and more to nearly every PetSmart store during nationwide events from Oct. 19-25
BURLINGTON, ON, Oct. 20, 2026 /CNW/ -- PetSmart Charities of Canada®, the leading funder of animal welfare in the country, is giving pets more opportunities to meet potential adopters during National Adoption Week, happening Oct. 19-25. Adoptable pets from local animal welfare organizations will be at nearly every PetSmart store across the country, helping them find loving families to share in the joy of the season and the holiday festivities ahead.
In a recent survey*, nearly half of owners (47%) say their pet is a member of the family, making this the most common description of their bond. Another 23% describe their pet as an important part of their life, 17% as being like a child, and 10% as their best friend or companion. Adoption events can help potential adopters begin those meaningful connections with a pet of their own. Families are encouraged to join one of the many nationwide adoption week events and fall in love with a new furry family member.
"With seasonal activities in full swing and holidays on the horizon, October's National Adoption Week is one of the best times of year to meet adoptable pets in person and find the one that matches your family and your lifestyle," said Patrick Bell, director of pet placement initiatives at PetSmart Charities of Canada. "Every adoption opens up space to care for another animal in need. We encourage families to consider welcoming a new companion this fall and sharing the season's traditions together."
As this time of year brings families together for seasonal celebrations and holiday traditions, many Canadians are including their pets. More than three in four owners (78%) say they include their pet in seasonal celebrations or holiday traditions. From family photos and holiday cards to costumes, treats and gifts, pets are often part of the moments families look forward to each year.
During PetSmart Charities of Canada National Adoption Week, over 100 local shelters and rescues will bring adoptable pets, including cats, kittens, dogs, puppies and often even small pets and reptiles, into nearly every PetSmart store across Canada. Potential adopters will have the opportunity to spend time with pets, as well as ask staff and volunteers questions to help them find the right match for their family.
For people considering adoption, finding a companion who fits their home and lifestyle is an important part of the journey. Thirty-six per cent of Canadians would prioritize compatibility with their family or household, followed by personality and temperament (31%) as the most important factor in choosing a pet. While almost nine in ten (89%) said guidance from a shelter or adoption organization would be helpful in finding the right match. Support offered from shelter and rescue partners can help prospective adopters explore their options and choose a companion who's a good fit for their family.
PetSmart Charities of Canada National Adoption Week Details
PetSmart Charities of Canada National Adoption Week brings adoptable pets from more than 100 local shelters and rescues to nearly every PetSmart store across Canada, where prospective adopters can meet them and find the right match for their home.
Dates: Oct.19-25, 2026
Locations: Nearly every PetSmart store across Canada. Visit PetSmart.ca to find a store near you.
Those who aren't ready to adopt can still help pets in need by donating at PetSmartCharities.ca. When the time is right, they can find adoptable pets, adoption centers and events at PetSmartCharities.ca/adopt-a-pet.
About PetSmart Charities of Canada
PetSmart Charities of Canada® is committed to making the world a better place for pets and all who love them. Through its in-store adoption program in PetSmart® stores across the country, PetSmart Charities of Canada has helped over 400,000 pets find loving homes. PetSmart Charities of Canada also provides grant funding to support organizations that advocate and care for the well-being of all pets and their families. Our grants and efforts connect pets with loving homes through adoption, improve access to affordable veterinary care and support families in times of crisis with access to food, shelter, and emergency relief. Each year, thousands of generous supporters help pets in need by donating to PetSmart Charities of Canada directly at PetSmartCharities.ca, while shopping at PetSmart.ca, and by using the PIN pads at checkout registers inside Canadian PetSmart stores. In turn, PetSmart Charities of Canada efficiently uses more than 90 cents of every dollar donated to fulfill its role as the leading funder of animal welfare in Canada, granting more than $40 million since its inception in 1999. PetSmart Charities of Canada is a registered Canadian charity. To learn more visit PetSmartCharities.ca.
About PetSmart
PetSmart is the leading omni-channel pet retailer in North America with a mission to help everyone experience more joy with pets. The company offers a compelling assortment of pet care essentials, exclusive brands and must-have items for each season, along with expert pet services. With over 160 stores across Canada – plus a seamless shopping experience at PetSmart.ca and through the PetSmart app – PetSmart's convenient shopping options are complete with autoship, same-day delivery and in-store pickup. Expert services include professional grooming, pet training, Doggie Day Camp and PetsHotel overnight boarding in many locations. The PetSmart Treats Rewards loyalty program provides value to pet parents through personalized offers and points on every purchase that can be used for future savings.
Angus Reid Survey Methodology:
*These are the findings of a study/survey conducted by PetSmart Charities of Canada from October 14- 19, 2026 among a sample of 1,004 online Canadians with pets who are members of the Angus Reid Forum. The survey was conducted in English and French. For comparison purposes only, a probability sample of this size would carry a margin of error of +/- 3.1 percentage points, 19 times out of 20.
SOURCE PetSmart Charities of Canada, Inc.
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