In an interview with PetSmart, Duhamel says, “Pet adoption changed my life when we were looking to find a companion for our 7-year-old dachshund, Zoe. Soon after adopting Meatloaf, I learned that these pets are just grateful for the love you have to give them.”

Duhamel has been an advocate for pet adoption ever since and is now teaming up with PetSmart Charities as the spokesperson for the “High-Five for Pet Adoption” campaign.

This Phoenix-based nonprofit creates and supports programs that save the lives of homeless pets, raise awareness of the companion-animal welfare issue and promote healthy relationships between people and pets.

Since its start in 1994, PetSmart Charities has saved about 400,000 pets every year—which totals to a whopping 5 million pets’ lives saved through adoption centers, so far.

A recent study by PetSmart Charities showed that less than half of Americans are considering adoption for their soon-to-be pet. To fix this, they aim to increase public awareness about the importance of pet adoption to save millions more pets that are in need of lifelong, loving homes.

By joining this campaign, Duhamel plans to raise awareness of the homeless pet problem and the important role that adoption plays in saving lives.

He says he is shocked by the numbers of homeless pets and that he is honored to work with PetSmart Charities to encourage people to adopt a pet and help save millions more pets.

The organization hopes to raise $250,000 during their campaign, which will help save 10,000 homeless pets. Text PETS to 80888* or visit www.petsmartcharities.org/donate to give $5 to help save the lives of millions more homeless pets.