Spring is the season to open your home to an adorable new pet, with area PetSmart stores holding adopt-a-thon events in conjunction with the Suffolk Humane Society and Suffolk Animal Control.

Lots of potential best friends will be available at three events, the first two at Chesapeake Square PetSmart on May 5-6, which will coincide with PetSmart Charities’ National Adoption Weekend.

The North Suffolk PetSmart store on College Drive will host the third event on May 20. All three events will run from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Lee Murphy, adoptions and foster coordinator for Suffolk Humane, said in a statement the events are a great opportunity to find a new friend and save a furry life.

“We have so many wonderful pets just waiting for someone to play or cuddle with,” Murphy stated. “We hope that people will come see them, give them some love and attention, and maybe take a new best friend home.”

Shelter Manager Debie Jefts, also in a statement, said Suffolk Animal Control has been inundated with stray and unwanted animals this spring, which is breeding season.

“It’s puppy and kitten season, and as a result, we have so many dogs, cats, puppies and kittens,” she stated. “We hope people will consider adding a new furry playmate to their families.”

PetSmart Charities, reportedly the leading charity for companion animal welfare efforts in North America, has helped find homes for more than five million pets via its adoption centers since 1994.

During the two events planned for National Adoption Weekend, which occurs four times a year, all adopters will receive free samples from sponsors Purina Pro Plan, Tidy Cats and PetSmart.

Additionally, PetSmart Charities will pledge $35 to both Suffolk Humane and Suffolk Animal Control for every pet adopted during the weekend.

“Sadly, four million adoptable pets are euthanized every year because they don’t have a home to go to,” PetSmart Charities Vice President and Executive Director Susana Della Maddalena said in a statement.

“Adoption is one of the best ways to put an end to pet homelessness. When you adopt, you save a life and enrich your own.”

The Suffolk Humane Society promotes the welfare of companion animals in the community through sponsoring spay/neuter programs, finding permanent homes for homeless animals and teaching responsible pet ownership.

To view current photos of animals up for adoption at Suffolk Animal Control, visit www.SuffolkHumaneSociety.com.