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Whoever said that money can’t buy happiness must have never rescued an animal. The ASPCA estimates that there are approximately 7.6 million companion animals that enter animal shelters nationwide every year. While about 2.7 million shelter animals are adopted every year, that same amount of pets are euthanized. Thankfully there is something you can do about it: consider adopting your next pet at one of these great local organizations.

The Barrington Partnership for Animal Welfare is an independent 501(c)3 non-profit organization that focuses on animal welfare issues in Barrington and surrounding towns. While they do not have a physical shelter, they always have great animals up for adoption and can help point you in the right direction. BarringtonPAW.org

The Bristol Animal Shelter provides a safe environment for sick, abused, abandoned and homeless animals that come into their care until they find their fur-ever home. They also provide routine and emergency veterinary services for the animals and hold events to promote education to reduce the surrender of companion animals. 10 Minturn Farm Road, Bristol. 401-253-4834, FriendsOfTheBristolAnimalShelter.org

The Potter League for Animals is an open admission shelter, which means they accept all owner-surrendered animals from Newport County and stray animals from communities they have animal control-housing contracts with. Annually, Potter League accepts approximately 2,000 dogs, cats, rabbits and small animals into their care. In addition to adoption services, they provide spay/neuter assistance, obedience training, lost and found assistance, cremation and behavior support services. They also host several youth and education programs throughout the year. 87 Oliphant Lane, Middletown. 401-846-8276, PotterLeague.org

The Tiverton/Little Compton Animal Control Pound offers dog and cat adoptions. All of their animals are fully vetted and waiting for you to love them forever. 1320 Main Road, Tiverton. 401-624-6624

The Warren Animal Shelter is responsible for impounding stray dogs and sick or injured cats – but they do not accept surrendered animals. The Warren Shelter is always in need of cleaning and animal care supplies and have a list of items on their website. 80 Wood Street, Warren. 401-245-4569, WarrenRIPolice.com/Animal-Control

Most cities or towns have their own animal control or pound with animals available for adoption. If these shelters are not close to you, check out both Petfinder.com and AdoptAPet.com to search for local shelters and adoptable pets.