NY shelters and rescues join lifesaving effort to increase adoptions.
BISSELL Pet Foundation, in collaboration with the Animal Rescue Fund of the Hamptons, Inc. (ARF Hamptons) and other animal shelters and rescues across New York, is proud to announce the launch of a new intrastate transport program aimed at increasing adoption opportunities for long-stay shelter pets.
A recent report from Shelter Animals Count reveals that dogs of all sizes are staying in the care of shelters and rescues longer than they have in previous years. Nationwide, dog adoptions have declined by 1% from 2023 to 2024, with medium-sized dogs averaging 18 days in sheltersand larger dogs averaging 20 days. Many New York shelters are caring for healthy, adoptable dogs who have been waiting for more than 30 daysfor a second chance at a loving home. To address this challenge, BISSELL Pet Foundation’s New York Intrastate Transport Program – Long-Stay Pet Initiative offers a collaborative platform for animal welfare organizations throughout the state to increase adoptions by coordinating the transfer of long-stay pets to locations where they may have a better chance of being adopted.
Beginning Wednesday, Feb. 19, participating shelters and rescues in New York will list their long-stay pets on BISSELL Pet Foundation’s platform. Once selected, these pets will be transported to new organizations increasing their chances of finding families. Community members are encouraged to visit their local shelters regularly, as new pets will continually be transferred in as part of the program.
“At BISSELL Pet Foundation, we know transport saves lives because we have seen it firsthand. Too many shelter pets are overlooked simply because they are in the wrong place at the wrong time. Transport offers a second chance by introducing them to new adopters,” said Cathy Bissell, Founder of BISSELL Pet Foundation. “We spent three years developing a platform to make intrastate transport easier for shelters, helping them diversify their populations to increase adoptions. Every pet deserves a chance, and we’re proud to provide a solution that helps shelters save more lives. If you are thinking about adding a pet to your family, please visit your local shelter to adopt or foster.”
“At ARF we dedicate significant resources to ensuring every animal in our care is set up for a successful adoption, including medical treatment, training, and full transparency about their needs,” explains Kimberly Nichols, Executive Director & CEO, Animal Rescue Fund of the Hamptons. “We carefully vet adopters to find the best match, but some dogs wait longer than others for their perfect home. By expanding our reach and collaborating with BISSELL Pet Foundation and other New York shelters, we’re increasing the chances of finding that ideal family while standing behind our commitment to every dog. If a match isn’t found, they will always have a safe place with us.”
ARF Hamptons hopes to bring additional attention to a few long stay residents including Nova, a fun-loving, four-year-old Pitbull/Black Lab mix and Sahteene, a stunning, seven-year-old white Shepherd mix. These big, energetic dogs have been waiting patiently and for longer than most animals at ARF for their forever homes.
Nova (above) was rescue from Georgia in January 2022 and is still a puppy at heart. She is a playful, outgoing, and social girl who loves her toys, playing in the water and is always ready for fun. She’s also a happy and curious pup working on her obedience training, which will be key to her success in a new home. However, Nova is a true diva and insists on being the center of attention—she needs to be your one and only pet.
Sahteene, affectionately known as “Teeny” is very smart and a bit silly. She came to ARF through rescue partners in New Jersey back in 2018 and was quickly adopted as a young pup. However, she returned to ARF the following year after she proved to be too active and reactive for her new family. Seven-year-old Shepherd Sahteene is extremely affectionate, and bonds quickly with people but she prefers to be your one and only pet in the household. She knows her basic commands, is housetrained and wants to learn more. Sahteene is a great dog and will need a patient and understanding owner who can continue her training at home.
ARF Hamptons is excited to partner with BISSEL, and the other New York shelters to broaden the reach for potential adoptions. To view ARF Hamptons’ adoptable pets visit arfhamptons.org.
This initiative is part of BISSELL Pet Foundation’s mission to alleviate shelter overcrowding and increase adoptions.