These Loving Pets Are Waiting for Their Dream Homes

August 24, 2026

Susie, a smiling brown dog; Bambi, a tortoiseshell cat; and the Walker's Shortbread logo

Did you know that by adopting just one animal from a shelter, you help save the lives of even more? When a pet leaves the shelter, through adoption or fostering, space and resources open up to help even more animals. Help one, help many — that’s The Rescue Effect.

As a part of The Rescue Effect campaign, we’re teaming up with our friends at Walker’s Shortbread to make this the best year yet! We’re excited to highlight a few animals from our facilities across the country. Meet some of our favorite furry friends available for adoption in New York, Ohio and North Carolina!

New York City

Higgins

Higgins, a brown-and-white dog, sitting on the floor

Are you ready for a new adventure buddy? Meet Higgins! He’s sweet, social and full of wiggles. He will always brighten your day, especially when he’s getting his zoomies out. He is an energetic guy, so he hopes to find a home where he can take regular walks and playtime. Higgins also loves to soak up affection! Visit his profile to learn more.

Hydrogen

Hydrogen, a black cat, lying down on a bed by a window

Hydrogen is a sweet cat who is eager to ask for your affection! She likes to lean into pets and is adorably vocal and chatty. She also has a playful side, enjoying her favorite toys and treats. When you become her new best friend, she’ll be thrilled to be the focus of your attention! If you’d like to learn more about Hydrogen, visit her profile!

Pawling, New York

Marley

Marley, a German Shepherd-mix, standing in a flower patch

This loving, playful girl is looking for a soft landing! Could that be in your home? Marley can be shy at first, but once she gets to know you, her goofy and fun nature will shine. She enjoys playing with her toys, learning new tricks and running around the yard with her friends. After burning some energy, she’ll be ready to curl up for cuddles. Learn more about Marley on her profile!

Romeo

Romeo, a brown dog, playing outside with a toy

It’s hard not to fall in love with charming Romeo! He will show you how excited he is to see you with lots of wiggles. He is always ready for a game of fetch or focusing on a fun training session. Afterwards, he’ll relax at your feet with one of his toys. Does Romeo sound like your paw-fect match? Check out his profile to learn more!

Asheville, North Carolina

Susie

Susie, a brown dog, jumping up and smiling

Susie is a small pup but she has a huge personality! She is always ready to explore or enjoy a good play session. She adores playing with other dogs, too. Susie loves showing her affectionate side to her favorite people, asking for lots of belly rubs and cuddles. She can be shy with new people, but she warms up quickly. Would you like to learn more about sweet Susie? Head over to her profile!

Julep

Julep, a black dog, lying in the grass

This girl loves the great outdoors! Julep is always ready to go on walks and adventures. Along the way, she’ll regularly check in with her person, and she is also happy when she gets to explore alongside a dog friend. After a fun-filled day, she’s happy to curl up near her people. She hopes to find a home that will help boost her confidence and give her a steady routine. Learn more about Julep by checking out her profile!

Columbus, Ohio

Tango

Tango, a black-and-white Husky, sitting outside

Get ready to dance with Tango! She loves to play, and especially enjoys playing fetch. She’s an expert at chasing after a ball and bringing it right back! She also enjoys going on long walks and working on her training. She may not have had much experience living in a home, so she hopes to find a patient adopter who will help show her the ropes. You will surely fall in love with this sweet, silly girl. Find out how to adopt her by visiting her profile!

Bambi

Bambi, a tortoiseshell cat, lying on the floor

When Bambi wants your attention, she happily flops over to show you her belly! She’s a small tortie girl who is full of love. She prefers to take her time when meeting new friends, but once she settles, she’ll show off her affectionate side. A great way to get to know her is with playtime! She adores chasing after feather wands. Would you like to build a trusting relationship with a feline companion? Visit Bambi’s profile to find out more!

If you don’t live in these areas, but you’re still considering adopting a new companion, there are many more adoptable animals at your local shelter! You can also visit our friends at Animal Care Centers of NYC and the Los Angeles County’s Animal Care Centers.

If you aren’t ready for adoption, you can still make a difference for animals in need by becoming a foster caregiver! Animals like these greatly benefit from spending time out of the shelter and in foster homes. You can foster for the ASPCA in Columbus, OhioPawling, New YorkNew York CityWeaverville, North Carolina and Los Angeles.