Media story

Home at last! Dozens of shelter pets find their fur-ever homes

Strong community support helped dozens of cats and dogs find loving homes, including long-term shelter residents waiting since 2023.

City services | September 10, 2026

Dog at animal shelter.

When the Mississauga Animal Services shelter reached capacity for dogs in August 2026, a call for community support led to 53 animals finding positive outcomes.

During the shelter’s Homeward Bound adoption event, 18 dogs, 22 cats, seven rabbits, five birds and one mischievous python were adopted, placed in foster homes or transferred to nearby rescues.

Between August 8 to 22, adoption fees were reduced to $25 plus HST for all dogs and cats. This limited-time promotion offered significant savings compared to regular adoption fees, which are typically $280 plus HST for dogs and puppies and up to $190 plus HST for cats and kittens.

Community response was immediate. The shelter received over a hundred calls a day and dozens of visitors. Seven dogs were adopted on the first day of the event, while cats were adopted so quickly that many found homes the same day they became available.

The success of the Homeward Bound event has helped ease capacity at the shelter and freed up space for other animals in need of care.

Pets waiting since 2023 finally found families

Some of the most heartwarming stories came from long-term shelter residents who finally found their forever homes after months, and in some cases years, of waiting.

For shelter staff and volunteers who cared for these animals, watching them leave with their new families was one of the most rewarding moments of the event.

Image of woman smiling next to a dog. — Kaito, an affectionate 10-year-old Husky and Akita mix who had been in the shelter’s care since October 2023, found a new owner during the event.

Image of black American bulldog. — Angel, a five-year-old, 90-pound American bulldog who arrived at the shelter in February 2024 is pictured before heading to her new home.

Max, a 3-year-old hound retriever mix that arrived at the shelter in November 2025 is pictured enjoying a visit to the lake with his new family.

Image of a dog in a car. — Macey, an affectionate American bully mix who came to the shelter in February 2026 is pictured on the car ride home.

Looking to adopt a pet?

While the Homeward Bound event has ended and adoption fees have returned to regular rates, there are still animals that come into the shelter every day looking for homes.

View available pets online.

Adopt-a-thons and other adoption events are shared in the City’s newsroom, events calendar and official social media channels. These events often include reduced adoption fees and discounted pet licensing fees, making them a great option for residents looking for a new furry friend.

If you need help caring for your pet

Bringing a pet into your home is a lifelong commitment. Pets depend on us for their care, comfort and well-being, and they deserve to be treated as valued members of the family.

Rising costs and unexpected life changes can make pet ownership difficult. If you are thinking of surrendering your pet, contact Mississauga Animal Services at 905-896-5858.

Keeping animals with their families is often the healthiest and least stressful outcome. Resources may be available to help you, including food assistance, veterinary care, support programs and other solutions that can keep your pet in the loving home they already know.