Every year, shelters and rescues help thousands of animals find homes, and each one needs a name. While names help pets stand out and connect with adopters, what happens if you don’t like the name your new furry friend comes with? Here’s what you should know about renaming an adopted pet.
Why Shelters Name Pets
Shelters name pets to make them more appealing and easier to market. It’s much easier to connect with “Snowflake” than “Cat #3,298.”
- Bonding tool: Names help adopters see pets as individuals.
- Marketing strategy: At Motley Zoo Animal Rescue, animals are often named after celebrities or musicians to spark interest.
- Identity marker: A fun or themed name gives animals personality before they meet potential families.
If an animal arrives with a name, shelters usually keep it—unless it’s harmful, associated with abuse, or discourages adoption. For example, a dog named “Killer” was renamed “Keller” to sound similar but be more inviting.
Can You Rename Your Pet After Adoption?
Yes—most of the time, it’s completely fine.
- Fresh start: Renaming can be part of bonding with your pet.
- Kittens and puppies: They’ve usually only had their shelter name for days or weeks, making the transition easier.
- Adult pets: They may experience some confusion at first, but it won’t prevent them from adapting.
Experts agree: if a name bothers you or could interfere with your relationship, changing it is the right choice.
How to Teach Your Pet Their New Name
Renaming your pet requires patience and consistency. Expect the transition to take days or even weeks.
Tips for success:
- Use the new name often and in positive contexts.
- Pair the name with rewards like treats, petting, and praise.
- Use the old name sparingly at first if needed, especially to get their attention.
- Say the new name at important times—like mealtime or playtime.
Even cats, known for being independent, respond when their name is consistently linked with positive reinforcement.
Renaming an adopted pet is not only acceptable, it can also strengthen your bond. With consistent use and positive reinforcement, your new companion will learn and respond to their new name in no time. After all, what matters most isn’t the name itself—it’s the love and care that comes with it.
