Dog Lovers Get a Second Chance: Pasadena Humane’s Hidden Gems Find Their Forever Homes

A weekly pop-up adoption program brings long-stay shelter dogs to community venues for a second chance at finding their perfect match
Published on Dec 3, 2025

This Friday, Pasadena Humane is bringing its lesser-known residents to the spotlight at an adoption event that champions the dogs shelters rarely feature: the ones who have waited longest for a family.

The Hidden Gems pop-up dog adoption event comes to Howie’s Market in San Gabriel from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. on December 5. “Each week, we’ll be bringing dogs who have been at the shelter longer than most other pups, giving them some extra time in the spotlight to really shine,” according to Pasadena Humane’s official event description.

The Hidden Gems program has become a cornerstone of Pasadena Humane’s mission. In 2024, the organization placed 100% of healthy and safe animals and found homes for more than 55,000 animals. Weekly pop-up events are also held every Wednesday from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. at PetSmart Hastings Ranch (3347 E. Foothill Blvd., in Pasadena).

Standard dog adoption fees are $150 for dogs six months and older, or $300 for puppies under six months. All adoptions include spay/neuter surgery, age-appropriate vaccines, rabies vaccination, a free health exam within 14 days, microchip and pet ID tag, and a 20% discount coupon to the Pasadena Humane Pet Store.

The organization offers special programs for qualifying adopters. The Seniors for Seniors program enables people age 60 and up to adopt pets age five and older free of charge. Active duty and retired military personnel also receive fee-waived adoptions with a valid military ID.

Founded in 1903, Pasadena Humane has provided lifesaving programs and services for animals for over 122 years, serving the Greater Los Angeles Area.

Hidden Gems: Pop-Up Dog Adoption Event at Howie’s Market will run on Friday, December 5 at 3 p.m.–6 p.m. Howie’s Market, 6580 N San Gabriel Blvd, San Gabriel. For more information, call (626) 792-7151 or visit https://pasadenahumane.org/phs-event/pop-up-dog-adoption-event-at-howies-market/.