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Our Programs

BISSELL Pet Foundation supports programs and initiatives that are focused on addressing the pet overpopulation crisis in our country.

Programs Overview

National Shelter Alliance

puppy in kennel smiling

Frequently Asked Questions

General FAQ

How can I apply for a grant?

BISSELL Pet Foundation offers grant funding twice a year, in spring and fall, to organizations who have already been accepted into our Partners for Pets program. The application dates are not announced in advance, so if you are interested in filling out a grant application, we recommend frequently checking the Grant Portal for the grant application opening. 

Can you provide a grant for my sick pet?

Every team member of BISSELL Pet Foundation is a loving pet parent, and from the bottom of our hearts, we are so sorry that your pet is having trouble! Unfortunately, we are unable to provide funding to individuals. However, we know of many people who have raised money through GoFundMe and social media or who have found success through reaching out to their local shelters and vets.

Do you have adoptable pets?

BISSELL Pet Foundation does not have pets to adopt, nor is it a place to surrender a pet.

We support wonderful animal welfare organizations and would be happy to connect you with them. If you are looking to adopt a pet, we suggest visiting PetFinder.com

How is BPF connected to BISSELL®?

BISSELL Pet Foundation is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization separate and independent from BISSELL Inc. Any inquiries or requests intended for BISSELL Inc. should be directed to that organization primarily through bissell.com. BISSELL Pet Foundation does not have access to and cannot share contact email addresses or phone numbers for BISSELL Inc. associates.

How do I activate a donation on a purchased BISSELL pet product?

To activate a donation on a purchased product, visit the BISSELL website at https://www.bissell.com/pets/save-pets.

Empty the Shelter FAQ

Where can I find what shelters are participating?

Visit the Empty the Shelters page to see a list and map of participating organizations.

Where are BISSELL Pet Foundation’s shelters?

BISSELL Pet Foundation does not have a shelter or animals available for adoption. We provide grant funding to shelters and rescues across the country.

Can you help me find a specific breed of pet?

We are a small team, and unfortunately, do not have the resources to assist with individual requests. However, there are many breed-specific rescues that can be located by a Google search for “[breed] rescue, [state].” You can also work with your local humane society or animal shelter for assistance locating the type of pet you are looking for. We recommend visiting in person frequently to meet available pets!

What breeds are available for adoption?

Almost every breed you can think of can be found for adoption at shelters and rescues.

Do I have to pay for anything during Empty the Shelters?

You are required to pay up to a $50 adoption fee during Empty the Shelters. You are also responsible for paying any dog licensing fees (varies by county).

When is the next Empty the Shelters event in my area?

Empty the Shelters is typically held quarterly with emergency events as crises arise. Stay tuned on Facebook for the next Empty the Shelters announcement.

Why do some participating locations not include puppies and kittens?

Each participating shelter chooses which pets will participate in Empty the Shelters; we do not limit due to age, breed, etc. Because older dogs and cats are often overlooked for puppies, many shelters choose to use this event to bring exposure to the dogs and cats that have been with them the longest – giving the older pets the chance to find their forever home.

Some locations will have puppies available, but you would need to contact them to find out. Puppies tend to go quickly though at all locations, so we encourage you to adopt early if you are considering a specific puppy!

What is the adoption process? Where can I fill out an adoption application?

You must contact the participating shelter to complete their adoption application. You do not need to register with BISSELL Pet Foundation, just the shelter.

What time is the event?

Event time varies by location – visit the Empty The Shelters page to view locations & event times.

Some shelters say “pre-approval only” – what does that mean?

“Pre-approval” means you must complete an adoption application and be approved to adopt prior to Empty the Shelters. Please contact the organization you wish to adopt from for more information.

Do I need to complete an adoption application for each location I go to?

We encourage you to apply at each shelter – each location can have a different application process, and you’ll want to make sure to fulfill those requirements so you’ll be all set for the event.

Partners for Pets FAQ

How do I join Partners for Pets and what are the eligibility requirements?

Partners for Pets organizations must be recognized by the IRS as a 501(C)(3) nonprofit or public (local government) animal welfare organization within the 50 United States. Your organization must submit an application in order to be considered for the program. Learn more here on our Partners for Pets webpage.

  • Shelters
  • Foster-based rescue groups
  • Clinics with low-cost veterinary care or spay/neuter programs
  • Spay/neuter support organizations (TNR, vouchers, etc.)

Has your organization’s contact information changed?

Partner organizations can update their information by submitting a Partner Information Update. Please check our Partners for Pets listings before submitting this form, this form cannot be used as a substitute for a Partners for Pets application. Examples of changes that warrant an Information Update submission include: change in Executive Director or equivalent, change in address, change in website, etc.

Is my organization still a part of Partner for Pets?

Animal welfare organizations need only apply for Partners for Pets once. If you were accepted into the program, you will remain a partner unless specifically notified. View all partners listed by state by visiting Partners for Pets.

If you do not see your organization’s name on the list and you believe it should be, please reach out to info@bissellpetfoundation.org.

What does it mean to be a Partners for Pets member in “good standing?”

Please remember that to be in good standing, Partners for Pets members must have the BISSELL Pet Foundation logo displayed on their website. If you do not have the logo displayed, please verify you are a partner first on the Partners for Pets webpage and then reach out to info@bissellpetfoundation.org to receive the logo.

Where can I find a list of shelters participating in the Partners for Pets program?

View our current partner shelters, rescues, and animal welfare organizations by visiting the Partners for Pets webpage.

What happened to the product donation?

With more than 5,600 partners throughout the United States, we are no longer able to sustain a product donation to each partner. All product donation requests should be directed to BISSELL Homecare (not BISSELL Pet Foundation). Our team is unable to make this request on your behalf.

I submitted a Partners for Pets application, how soon will I hear back regarding the status of my application?

BISSELL Pet Foundation receives an overwhelming number of applications for our Partners for Pets program. We take great care in vetting each organization. Please allow 2-3 months for our team to make a decision regarding your organization’s application.

How will I be notified of my Partners for Pets application status?

Your organization’s Partners for Pets application status will not update within your grant portal account and will always state ‘Submitted’. Your organization will receive an email to the applicant’s email address regarding our decision. If you have not received an email within 2-3 months of your application submission, please reach out to info@bissellpetfoundation.org and we can provide you with an update.

How do I login to Partners for Pets?

Partners for Pets does not have a portal requiring a login. The only login that you will need to have is for your grant portal, and that is only if you have applied for a grant. If you have not applied for a grant, you will not have a login and will have to create a new login if you are applying for a grant.

To update your organization’s address or contact info send your change to info@bissellpetfoundation.org