Home and loving it: 4 pet adoption stories

Adopting a pet changes everything — for people and animals alike. These four adoption stories about pets adopted from Best Friends Animal Sanctuary show how families found joy, laughter, and lasting companionship with their new dogs and cats.

I can’t believe it was only yesterday that my new best friend came into my life. He already feels like he’s always been here. We all liked the name Santana, but after some deliberation, we decided to go with Durango (Rango for short). He learned his name so fast! He’s sound asleep after a great car ride, camping trip, and hike. Thank you so much for being the matchmaker who set the two of us up. You saw exactly the kind of dog I was looking for and helped me connect with my dream dog! I am more grateful than I can put into words for all the support that you have given me through this process.

We adopted Jackson in the summer of 2010. We had no intention of adopting another dog that day, as we had two at home already. However, Jackson stole our hearts, so we took him home. He was accepted into the pack immediately and became a member of our family. Jackson celebrated his 15th birthday on May 19, 2025. His mom made him a peanut butter-and-banana cake, his favorite. He even shared it with his brother! Jackson is an amazing dog. He still enjoys walks, swimming, and patrolling the yard for possible intruders. He may do these things a little slower now, but he is living his life to the fullest. Sometimes, the best choices we make in our lives are not planned. We followed our hearts that day and have never regretted it.

Things are going AMAZING! I have renamed her Vex’ahlia, and she is the stinkin’ cutest thing ever. Her favorite toys are springs, crunchy balls, and string, which is difficult when I bring my embroidery out. All my projects now have the added touch of some cat saliva. She LOVES exploring. Anytime a door opens, she’s there to see what’s behind it. Bathrooms are her favorite rooms in the house because she’s learned her voice echoes in there, and she loves to hear herself sing. And she is one of the cuddliest creatures ever. Not only does she want cuddles, she demands them. If I ever put her down before she is done, she will literally climb back up me to get more. She is such a happy kitten, and she has made me so happy. I am so glad I found her.

Elton and Binns were total angels on the trip to Seattle. Binns really wanted to control the gas and brake pedals and Elton wanted to steer, but I told them they needed to get their licenses first. They’ve totally settled into their new home. They are so excited about having a bit more space to roam and chase each other. And they already enjoy watching the birds on the balcony. Also, I have renamed Elton to Tubbs, so they are now the super comedy duo of Binns & Tubbs. Keep an eye out for their future residency in Vegas.

This article was originally published in the September/October 2025 issue of Best Friends magazine. Want more good news? Become a member and get stories like this six times a year.

Our goal at Best Friends is to support all animal shelters in the U.S. in reaching no-kill in 2025. No-kill means saving every dog and cat in a shelter who can be saved, accounting for community safety and good quality of life for pets. 

Shelter staff can’t do it alone. Saving animals in shelters is everyone’s responsibility, and it takes support and participation from the community. No-kill is possible when we work together thoughtfully, honestly, and collaboratively.