10 Before-and-After Pet Adoption Photos: Animal Shelter Cats and Dogs Who Traded Humane Society Kennels for Homes Full of Compassion and Happiness

Every animal shelter adoption is two rescues at once: a pet gets a home, and a person gets a best friend. That’s kindness that pays itself back, and psychology proves it. In a Washington State University study, just 10 minutes of petting a dog or cat significantly lowered the stress hormone cortisol. Now imagine a lifetime of it.
These before-and-after pet adoption photos follow a rescue dog, a rescue cat and a tiny puppy from the Humane Society to the couch, the bed and the backyard. They prove that animal welfare is more than a cause. It’s compassion you can see, and happiness you can hold.

“I adopted my sweet girl from an animal shelter in Atlanta, Georgia. She’s living her best life in Halifax, Nova Scotia!”

“2 years ago today, I met a cat named Sonny who no one would adopt because he was 13 years old, covered in fleas and underweight. He came home with me that night and it was the best decision I’ve ever made.”

“Our pup potato looked fine when we first saw her. A few days and some paperwork later, the pound gave her to us looking absolutely wrecked. After two weeks of tlc, she’s now the sweetest puff ball.”

“Took a chance, and decided to rehabilitate this boy. One of the best decisions of my life.”

“My next-door neighbors abandoned their dog and got a new puppy. She was in the animal shelter for a full month before I realized what happened. This is Missy in the shelter, and when she realized she’s never going back.”

“Our girl Poppy. She’s been with us about 5 months now.”

“In the animal shelter vs. rescued and happy. Meet Arthur!”

“Two years ago he became a part of the family. Now he’s a giant floof.”

“Ride from the animal shelter vs. Ride for fun.”

“This is my best friend. Before and after getting adopted.”