Millions of pets are at risk, and we need a simple change to save them. Many animals currently languish in shelters outside of their local area because potential adopters simply don't see them. For me, it's personal. I have seen the heartbreak and devastation in shelters that struggle to find loving homes for perfectly adoptable pets. The need for visibility is urgent, and we have the power to change this.

On platforms like Petfinder, which is pivotal in connecting pets with potential adopters, a simple tweak can change the fate of countless animals. Currently, when adopters search for pets, the system defaults to show only those within a local radius. This neglects thousands of animals who could be perfect matches for families willing to adopt them from further afield.

According to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA), approximately 6.3 million companion animals enter U.S. animal shelters nationwide every year, and roughly 920,000 of those animals are euthanized. The harsh reality is that many of these deaths come down to a simple lack of visibility.

Demanding that Petfinder include out-of-state pets in their default search results is a realistic and actionable change. This can drastically increase the number of potential adopters who see these animals, thereby increasing the chances of them finding forever homes. By expanding the search parameters, shelters will have a greater chance to save the lives of these deserving pets.

This change doesn't require massive resources, just a shift in the algorithm that will make the adoption search more inclusive and comprehensive. Our shelters are overwhelmed, and by improving search capabilities, we provide a fighting chance for more animals.

I urge Petfinder to understand the importance of this change. Let us unite for the cause of animal welfare, ensuring no adoptable pet is left unseen just because of geographic boundaries.

Please sign this petition to call on Petfinder to update their search defaults and save countless lives today.