Summer Is a Great Time to Adopt a Dog or Cat: 8 Reasons Why

by Steph Mueller for The Pet Market

Can you ever have too much love — or too many laughs — in your life? If your answer is a firm no, it may be time to welcome a new pet into your home. And there's no better season to do it. Here are eight great reasons to adopt a dog or cat this summer, plus how to find an adoption event near you.

1. More Daylight for Training

For puppies and dogs who still need house or leash training, long summer days give you far more time for frequent outdoor walks and training sessions — when it's light out and you're not rushing before sunset.

2. Enjoy the Great Outdoors Together

Aside from the occasional heat wave, summer is made for being outside. It's a wonderful time for walks, picnics, and simply sitting in the park to people- and dog-watch. Dogs — and cats on leashes or in carriages — love the sounds, smells, and sights of nature just as much as we do.

3. Perfect Weather for Socializing

If you adopt a dog-friendly pup, summer is the ideal time to introduce them to new parks, neighbors, other friendly dogs, and plenty of fresh experiences. Early positive socialization sets your dog up for a confident, well-adjusted life.

4. Kids Are Home From School

For families, summer break is prime adoption time. Kids have plenty of hours to help feed, play with, and supervise a new pet — and your new companion will soak up all the extra attention and bonding.

5. Flexible Schedules and Days Off

Summer Fridays, personal days, and vacation time all make it easier to help a new pet settle in. Those early days at home together are the perfect chance to bond and let your pet adjust to all the changes in their life.

6. It's Kitten Season

And you thought there were only four seasons! From spring through fall, countless kittens are born outdoors across NYC. Without rescue, most have little hope of a safe, happy life. Shelters and rescue groups work tirelessly to save as many as they can — but they can only do it with adopters and foster parents. Summer is when they need you most.

7. Easier Travel With a New Pet

Dogs especially may be able to join you on short day or weekend trips — and plenty of people bring their dogs on vacation. Just make advance arrangements for any air travel and confirm pet-friendly accommodations before you go.

8. Come to a Pet Market Adoption Event

We host frequent adoption events — both with private rescue groups and with the ACC Mobile Adoption Van parked right at our stores. Check our website and store windows for announcements about upcoming events near you.

Pet Adoption FAQs

Is summer really a good time to adopt a pet?

Yes. Longer daylight hours make training easier, warm weather is ideal for socializing a new dog, kids and flexible summer schedules mean more time to help a pet settle in, and it's peak kitten season — when shelters need adopters most.

What is kitten season?

Kitten season runs from spring through fall, when large numbers of kittens are born outdoors. Shelters and rescue groups fill up during these months, so adopting or fostering during kitten season saves lives directly.

Where can I find pet adoption events in NYC?

The Pet Market hosts regular adoption events with local rescue groups and the ACC Mobile Adoption Van at our store locations. Check our website and store windows for the latest dates, or stop in and ask our team.

What if I'm not ready to adopt?

Fostering is a wonderful alternative. You give a pet a safe, temporary home while they wait for adoption — freeing up space for rescues to save more animals. It's a low-commitment way to make a big difference.

How do I prepare to bring home a new dog or cat?

Set up food and water bowls, a bed, and a quiet space before arrival; stock up on food, toys, and any supplies; and plan a few days at home to help your pet adjust. Your Pet Market team can help you gather everything on the checklist.

Save a Life This Summer

Please consider saving a life today and bringing more joy into your own. As one adopter put it: “Adopting was the best rash decision I've ever made!”

Not looking to adopt? Foster! Either way, visit any Pet Market location or check our website for upcoming adoption events — your next best friend may be closer than you think.