Senior Dog Adoption Campaign to Launch in October
The national weeklong event aims to improve adoption rates for older shelter dogs starting October 25, 2026.
Updated on Oct. 20, 2026 in Dogs
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Saving Senior Dogs Week begins October 25, 2026, aiming to raise awareness for the thousands of older dogs in shelters across the United States. This annual campaign works to improve adoption rates for dogs older than seven, who face lower interest than their younger counterparts.
Why it matters
Shelters struggle with high populations and lower adoption interest for aging pets, who face significantly higher euthanasia risks than younger animals. The campaign addresses this by funneling proceeds directly to rescues dedicated to the care and placement of senior dogs.
While less than 1.5% of the 14,794 U.S. animal shelters are dedicated exclusively to senior dogs, 75% of campaign proceeds go to participating rescue organizations. The remaining 25% is allocated to the Saving Senior Dogs USA grant fund.
The players
Saving Senior Dogs USA
A 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization focused on supporting senior dog rescues through advocacy and grant funding.
The details
The campaign functions as a national media-driven initiative involving 27 senior dog rescue services. These organizations work to overcome the adoption gap for older pets, whose presence in households has grown from 42% to 52% over the last decade. Funds are raised to support these specific rescue operations and provide resources for shelters managing high-need senior populations.
Timeline
Saving Senior Dogs Week was founded in 2019.
Shelter dog euthanasia rates decreased by 7% in 2025.
Saving Senior Dogs Week begins on October 25, 2026.
Saving Senior Dogs Week concludes on October 31, 2026.
The Home Front
The rise in U.S. households owning dogs older than seven from 42% to 52% over the last decade suggests a sustained commitment to senior pet companionship. This campaign aligns with that trend by highlighting the specialized needs of older dogs in the national shelter system.
Consider checking local municipal or private shelters during the campaign to see if an older dog might be the right fit for your household logistics. If you are unable to adopt, you may reach out to rescue organizations to learn about foster opportunities for senior dogs.
The takeaway
Supporting senior rescues helps address the unique challenges of rehoming older pets who often spend longer in shelter environments. You can contribute by contacting local participating rescues or visiting the official campaign site to support their grant fund.
Further reading
For more information on pet care and senior animal support, visit the Dogs section.
More information
To make a donation or learn more about the campaign, visit the Saving Senior Dogs USA website.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Petaluma Argus-Courier.
Live Poll
Would you consider adopting a senior dog from a local shelter instead of a puppy?
