Top 16 Celebrities Who Have Adopted and Helped Animals

Last Updated: January 03, 2025

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We have explored many humanitarian celebrities who have been inspiring the world by doing good in different causes. Adopting animals in need has become one of the most heartwarming ways celebrities are giving back. These acts of kindness not only save the lives of animals but also inspire millions of fans to consider adoption instead of purchasing pets.

From dogs and cats to even pigs, these stars are using their platforms to spread the message of compassion and responsible pet ownership. Let’s dive into the stories of celebrities who have opened their hearts and homes to animals in need.

Who are the top celebrities in helping and adopting animals?

From Selenda Gomez to Ryan Reynolds, here are the honorable enlisting of all the celebrities who have inspired us to do good for this planet with their kind gesture on adopting and helping the animals.

Sandra Bullock

In 2019, Sandra Bullock added a new member to her family—a 2-year-old rescue poodle. Bullock was seen cuddling her furry friend on the set of a Netflix movie in 2020, almost exactly a year after the passing of her first two rescue dogs, Poppy and Ruby.

Ruby, Bullock’s first adopted dog, was truly unique. She had only two back legs but still walked upright, an endearing sight that Bullock once humorously described as "like watching a drunk sailor." This special-needs dog captured Bullock’s heart, and her adoption story continues to inspire fans to adopt pets with disabilities, proving that every animal deserves a loving home.

Selena Gomez

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During the pandemic in 2020, Selena Gomez introduced her fans to Daisy, a rescue puppy she adopted to join her other dog, Winnie. Known for her strong stance on adopting rescue animals, Gomez has given homes to numerous shelter dogs over the years.

I know a few friends that are fostering right now just to give animals a safe place … I couldn’t help it, I have to keep her. Selena Gomez

In 2010, Gomez had as many as five rescue dogs, explaining that adopting made sense because “there are a lot of dogs that need homes.” Her genuine dedication to helping homeless animals has encouraged her fans to follow her lead, using her influence to advocate for animal adoption.

Whoopi Goldberg

In 2011, Whoopi Goldberg had a life-changing moment on national television when she met Verrazano, a rescue kitten who made his TV debut on "The View." Goldberg was so smitten by the kitten that she adopted him on the spot.

She later posted about her new pet on Facebook, affectionately nicknaming him “Vinny.” Goldberg’s instant decision to adopt Verrazano after learning about his tragic past—being thrown from a moving car—resonated with many viewers and shined a light on the importance of adopting rescue animals.

Ariana Grande

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Ariana Grande’s love for animals goes beyond her music. The pop star has adopted 10 rescue dogs, an emotional support pig named Piggy Smalls, and even partnered with BarkBox to cover adoption fees for rescue dogs during her Honeymoon Tour.

Grande, a vegan and vocal advocate for animal welfare, has consistently used her platform to promote adoption and help animals in need. Her passion for rescuing pets has inspired her fans to adopt rather than shop, making her a powerful voice in the fight against animal homelessness.

Chris Evans

Chris Evans met his best friend, Dodger, while filming the movie “Gifted” in 2017. The heartwarming story began when Evans, during a scene at a dog pound, realized the dogs weren’t actors but were actually up for adoption. One look at Dodger, and Evans knew he had found his dog.

In 2021, he shared the emotional video of their first meeting on social media, encouraging others to visit shelters and adopt. Evans’ story of rescuing Dodger from the pound is a touching reminder that a shelter visit could lead to finding a lifelong companion.

Every dog deserves to have healthy dog food that they love, that has really good eatability Chris Evans

Ed Sheeran

Ed Sheeran introduced his fans to his adopted kitten, Graham, in 2014. The 1-month-old kitten was facing the threat of being put down, but Sheeran stepped in just in time to save him.

Graham even became a social media star for a short time, with Sheeran setting up a Twitter account for him that garnered over 49,000 followers. While the account hasn’t been active since 2014, Sheeran’s story continues to highlight the importance of rescuing animals in need.

Ryan Reynolds

Ryan Reynolds’ dog, Baxter, came into his life unexpectedly. While helping a friend find a pet at a shelter, Reynolds noticed Baxter and knew he couldn’t leave without him. His spontaneous decision to adopt Baxter has shown that sometimes the best things in life are unplanned.

Reynolds and his wife, Blake Lively, often celebrate Baxter’s milestones on social media, sharing their love for their rescue dog with the world. Their adoption story reinforces the joy and fulfillment that comes from saving an animal’s life.

Zac Efron

Zac Efron’s love for animals took center stage when he rescued his dog, Tilly, from being euthanized. The actor, known for his altruism and environmental efforts, adopted Tilly and gave her a second chance at life.

Efron’s commitment to animal welfare extends beyond Tilly, as he is an outspoken advocate for adoption and environmental sustainability. His choice to adopt Tilly underscores the life-saving impact that adoption can have on animals facing grim futures.

Rihanna

Rihanna’s adoption story started in a nightclub bathroom where she found a puppy named Pepe. Despite the unusual setting and the fact that she was intoxicated at the time, Rihanna couldn’t resist giving Pepe a loving home.

This spontaneous act of kindness inspired her fans, showing that adopting a pet can happen when you least expect it. Rihanna’s love for Pepe is a reminder that rescued animals can come from anywhere, and they all deserve a chance at a better life.

Bradley Cooper

Bradley Cooper has a long history of adopting rescue dogs. In the early 2000s, he adopted Samson, a 14-year-old dog who was just weeks away from being euthanized. Later, he adopted Charlotte from a shelter during an adoption campaign.

Cooper’s dedication to saving older and at-risk animals has touched the hearts of many. His story highlights the importance of adopting older pets who often get overlooked in shelters but have just as much love to give as younger animals.

Salma Hayek

For 18 years, Salma Hayek shared her life with her beloved rescue dog, Lupe, whom she found on the streets of Mexico. Lupe was not just a pet but a loyal companion to Hayek through many important moments in her life. When Lupe passed away, Hayek wrote a touching tribute, expressing her gratitude for the many years they spent together.

Hayek’s story is a perfect example of how rescuing an animal can enrich both the pet's and the owner's life. She has been a longtime advocate for adoption and has often spoken about how rescuing Lupe not only saved the dog but also brought immense joy and companionship into her own life.

Liam Hemsworth

Liam Hemsworth is a proud pet parent to two rescue dogs, Toni and Dora. Hemsworth has spoken about his passion for animal rescue and how much his dogs mean to him. He regularly shares photos of his furry friends on social media, describing them as his “true loves.”

Hemsworth’s advocacy for pet adoption is clear in his frequent statements encouraging people to adopt rather than buy pets. His love for animals shines through in his commitment to providing a loving home to his rescue dogs and spreading awareness about the importance of adoption.

Eva Mendes

Eva Mendes introduced her rescue dog, Lucho, to her social media followers with a heartfelt message about the significance of adopting pets. Lucho became a part of Mendes’ family after being adopted from an animal rescue organization, and Mendes has since used her platform to promote pet adoption.

Mendes has encouraged her fans not only to adopt pets but also to donate to animal rescue organizations if they can’t adopt. Her compassionate message and love for Lucho have helped raise awareness about the importance of providing homes for animals in need.

Ryan Gosling

Ryan Gosling has long been a supporter of adopting animals in need, and his beloved dog, George, was a constant companion until his passing in 2016. Gosling adopted George from a shelter in 2000, and the two were inseparable for 16 years.

In 2019, Gosling and his partner, Eva Mendes, adopted a Weimaraner named Lucho, who became a new member of their family. Gosling's commitment to adopting pets and providing them with loving homes has been an inspiration to many, encouraging people to give rescue animals a chance.

Miley Cyrus

Miley Cyrus is well-known for her love of animals and her advocacy for pet adoption. Over the years, she has adopted more than one dog, with her latest addition being a bulldog named Kate Moss. Cyrus also has four horses, three cats, and a pig, showing her dedication to providing homes for a wide range of animals.

In addition to adopting pets herself, Cyrus has worked to support animal shelters and encourage her fans to do the same. She has consistently promoted the message that adopting pets is a loving and responsible choice, helping to raise awareness about the importance of animal rescue.

Millie Bobby Brown

At just 17 years old, Millie Bobby Brown found comfort and calm through her rescue dog, Winnie the Pooh. Brown has been open about her struggles with anxiety, and having Winnie as a companion has helped her cope with the pressures of fame.

Brown’s story is a testament to the emotional support that pets can provide, particularly those rescued from difficult situations. Her adoption of Winnie also highlights how important it is to give shelter animals a second chance, as they can bring comfort and joy to their new families.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Which celebrities have adopted rescue animals?

Celebrities like Sandra Bullock, Chris Evans, Selena Gomez, Ariana Grande, and Bradley Cooper have adopted rescue animals and raised awareness about pet adoption.

Why do celebrities adopt rescue animals?

Many celebrities adopt rescue animals to give abandoned pets a second chance and promote the importance of adoption over purchasing from breeders.

How many rescue animals has Ariana Grande adopted?

Ariana Grande has adopted 10 rescue dogs and an emotional support pig named Piggy Smalls.

What did Chris Evans say about adopting his dog, Dodger?

Chris Evans shared that he adopted Dodger from a shelter during filming and encourages others to visit shelters and adopt pets.

Why is pet adoption important?

Pet adoption saves lives by giving homeless animals a second chance, reduces overcrowding in shelters, and brings joy and companionship to adopters.

Conclusion: Celebrities Adopted and Helped Animals

So we discovered that from being environmental celebrities helping the world to have a better planet, to helping in causes like education, celebs have always inspired us with their good acts.

Sandra Bullock to Bradley Cooper, these celebrities have proven that adopting animals is an act of kindness that can change lives—both for the animals and the people who adopt them. By opening their homes to rescue animals, these stars are using their influence to encourage fans to consider adoption and make a difference in the lives of homeless pets.

These stories of love, rescue, and second chances are a powerful reminder that there are countless animals in shelters waiting for a home. Whether it’s a dog, cat, or even a pig, adopting an animal can bring joy and companionship like no other.