Ariana Madix Champions Pet Adoption in New ASPCA Campaign

The “Vanderpump Rules” alum and current “Love Island USA” host announced her involvement in the national initiative this week, which aims to address the growing crisis facing animal shelters across the country. With nearly 6 million dogs and cats entering shelters in 2024 alone, facilities are struggling with overcrowding and extended stays for animals awaiting homes.

Personal Connection Drives Advocacy

Madix’s passion for animal rescue isn’t just for the cameras — it’s deeply personal. The 39-year-old star shares her home with two rescue animals: Kitty, an 18-year-old cat she found as a stray in New York City, and Mya Moon, a 6-year-old pit bull mix she adopted during the pandemic.

“When you visit a shelter, you’ll see so many wonderful animals just waiting for a second chance,” Madix explained. “Choosing to adopt even one pet creates a ripple — not just for that animal, but for others who now have a better chance at finding a home, too.”

Her first rescue experience came during her college years at Flagler College in Florida, where she adopted Charlotte, a Chihuahua-Husky mix from the St. Augustine Humane Society. Charlotte, whom Madix called her “soul dog,” remained her constant companion for 18 years, moving with her from Florida to New York City and finally to Los Angeles.

“Love Island USA” host Ariana Madix and her 18-year-old rescue cat named Kitty join The Rescue Effect, the ASPCA’s national animal adoption and fostering campaign.

The Shelter Crisis Behind the Campaign

The timing of Madix’s involvement couldn’t be more crucial. Animal shelters nationwide are reporting longer stays for pets, particularly dogs, while dealing with an increasing number of animals requiring specialized medical or behavioral care. These factors strain already limited resources and space.

“We’re seeing animals with greater needs staying longer in our care,” noted Christa Chadwick, vice president of shelter services for the ASPCA. “Every adoption truly does create space for us to help another animal in need.”
The Rescue Effect campaign, running through October’s Adopt a Shelter Dog Month, has attracted participation from over 550 shelters and rescues nationwide. The ASPCA is backing the effort with $2 million in grant funding to help more than 100 participating shelters waive adoption fees and cover operational costs.

Beyond Adoption: Multiple Ways to Help

For those unable to commit to adoption, the campaign emphasizes that fostering provides equally vital support. Temporary foster homes allow shelters to care for more animals while giving pets a break from the shelter environment.
Madix encourages potential pet parents to visit local shelters with an open mind. “I want people to know there are amazing animals in shelters who match all the things they say they’re looking for — whether it be breed, size or age,” she said. “These animals do exist in shelters — just go look.”

Making an Impact

The campaign’s message centers on the “ripple effect” of each adoption — how saving one animal creates space and resources for shelters to help others. With millions of pets waiting for homes, advocates hope celebrity endorsements like Madix’s will inspire more people to choose adoption over purchasing from breeders or pet stores.

Pet lovers can find participating shelters and learn more about The Rescue Effect at aspca.org/therescueeffect. The campaign encourages social media engagement using #TheRescueEffect to spread awareness about the millions of adoptable animals waiting for their forever families.

As Madix continues to use her platform to advocate for animal welfare, her message remains simple yet powerful: every adoption matters, and every pet deserves a second chance at love.