50 Most Wholesome Rescue Pet Photos Of The Month (December Edition)

Remember, after you are done scrolling through the list, you can overload yourself with cuteness, firing up our earlier rescue pet photos from November, October, and September.

The coronavirus pandemic has affected lots of American animal shelters. "Since it began, COVID-19 has put an immense amount of strain on animal shelters across the country. Because this is an ever-changing situation, each shelter is facing unique challenges specific to its community,” Adoptions Promotions Manager at the ASPCA, Kelly DiCicco, told Bored Panda in an earlier interview.

Emptying cages in 2020 had been especially important because many shelters have reduced staffing due to social distancing requirements—which has meant reductions or limits to the number and types of services offered to the public. "Additionally, shelters have felt the financial impacts of the pandemic, with reduced donations and an inability to host in-person fundraising events, which often play a key role in annual fundraising efforts," DiCicco said.

By adopting an animal in need – no matter the species, breed, or size – people are saving that animal's life as well as freeing up valuable shelter space and resources for other animals in need.

Also, a huge benefit of adopting animals from a shelter is that shelter staff know the animals well and can provide detailed information about an animal's history, medical needs, behavior, and temperament. They also consider a potential adopter's lifestyle, home environment, and the animal's potential compatibility with children and other animals in the home, helping the person to bring home the best match they can find.

To find out more about pet adoption, visit this helpful guide by the ASPCA.