Surely, you have seen the 2007 Sarah McLachlan SPCA commercial – warning: may cause you to hold your cat and uncontrollably sob. But, once you stopped crying, did you go out to adopt a pet?

Apparently, many people did (including myself) – those ads raised over $30 million for the ASPCA + the number of animals entering shelters has decreased from 7.2 million in 2011 to 6.5 million.

While progress has been made in finding shelter animals homes, there are still 6.5 million companion animals entering shelters each year. Meaning: Time to find these paw-sitively awesome pets homes.

For National Adopt a Pet Day, we have teamed up with Brother Wolf Animal Rescue + Asheville Humane Society so you can find your furever friend – or at least volunteer, donate, share these pets with someone looking to adopt, or foster these cuties until they find the purrfect home.

Bonus: Click here to read local adoption stories from our readers.

Meet these five lovable pets in need of a home at Brother Wolf Animal Rescue

31 Glendale Avenue |(828) 505-3440 | Mon., Wed., Thurs., Sat., Sun., 10 a.m. - 6 p.m.; closed Tues.; 10 a.m. - 7 p.m., Fri. 10 a.m. - 7 p.m.

Lulu is an adorable 2-year old female rabbit. She's been around other rabbits in the past and didn't really get along, but she might get along with another rabbit with time and patience.

Ruby is an active, independent, gorgeous tortoiseshell! She's about 7 years old, and loves chasing string, cardboard boxes, and bird watching. She loves people but appreciates her own space too. Playtime is a must with Ruby!

Boris is a delightful and very well behaved 10-year old Shepherd mix. He's got the cutest face and oh that smile! He's got a lot of spirit and love to give, enjoying hikes and snuggling. Meet Boris at the adoption center!

Vernon is a funny little guinea pig who loves to talk! He’s a bit cautious about “The Hand,” but once you’ve got him, he loves to snuggle up in your shirt, especially if he’s munching on a carrot or a piece of cucumber. Vernon has unique markings: he is tan on the right side of his head and black on the left. He also needs to be adopted with his best bud, Lily. Please contact Janet (ecochristian@yahoo.com) for more information about Vernon!

Leyla is a beautiful farm pig in need of a loving home living outdoors where she gets the love and attention she deserves. Leyla will need to go with one of her companions, Ricky or Lucy, and needs sturdy fenced in area to keep her contained as she will grow to be a big girl! She loves getting brushed, sunbathing, and playing with her treat dispensers. If you are looking for large companion pigs to spend your days outside with, consider adopting a pair of our large breed pigs!

See all animals currently up for adoption here + learn about the adoption process here. Learn about volunteer opportunities here.

Meet these five lovable pets in need of a home at Asheville Humane Society

14 Forever Friend Lane (Asheville Humane Society) + 16 Forever Friend Lane (Buncombe County Animal Shelter) |(828) 761-2001 | Tues. 10 a.m. - 7 p.m.; Wed. - Saturday 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.; Closed Sun. + Mon.

PooBear is a handsome 5-year-old fluff ball with a folded ear. He came to Asheville Humane Society with a previous ear injury and even though it has healed, the fold has remained his signature look. PooBear would do best in a cat-savvy home where he can live life on his own terms.

Irma is a 3-year-old Pittie mix. She can be shy when first meeting new people, but once you take this sweet girl outside of her kennel, her personality shines! She especially enjoys playing in doggie playgroups at our Adoption Center! According to her previous owners, Irma is house trained and crate trained.

Elvis is a 14-year-old cat who is low-maintenance and loves to cuddle! He gets along with everyone including other cats, dogs, and children! He is currently relaxing in a foster home, so if you are interested in meeting Elvis, please contact his Adoption Ambassador at adoll@ashevillehumane.org or 716-515-5897.

Homer is a 2-year-old Pittie mix with a big personality! He's part of our Canine Good Citizen Program where he is learning plenty of social skills! He's an energetic dog who enjoys going on leashed walks, learning new commands, and playing! He loves people, but would prefer a home without cats and small dogs.

Doogan is a 5-year-old Boxer mix who is a little nervous around new people at first, but warms up quickly with gentle scratches behind his ears. He had a mast cell tumor that was removed while in our care and he also suffers from hip dysplasia. Doogan needs a special person who is willing to give him the happy, healthy life he deserves.

Adoptable animals + info about the adoption process here. Learn about volunteer opportunities here.

Both my pets, Susie the cat + Luna the pup, were adopted from Brother Wolf. The two of them have grown up together since they were small + have seriously become BFFs. Many people thought I was crazy for taking in a puppy + kitten during college, but honestly they have been the best decision I’ve ever made.

Even if you can’t take on the responsibility of a fur-child just yet, consider cat cuddling or even taking dogs on a hike (BWAR hosts Outward Hounds + AHS hosts Hiking Hounds). It’s a win-win for everyone.

Hope your Monday is purrfect!!

– Audra