The San Diego Humane Society has launched a pet adoption trial programme, allowing potential adopters to take home a pet for a 'test run' before making a lifelong commitment.

The initiative is aimed at individuals who want to see how an animal fits into their household while still providing a temporary home outside the shelter.

Unlike fostering, which is entirely temporary, participants act as trial adopters, taking home a specific adult pet aged seven months or older with the intent to adopt.

They have up to 14 days to decide if the animal is the right match.

Dr Gary Weitzman, president and CEO of the San Diego Humane Society, said: 'You can think of it like a test run. If there is a specific pet you want to bring home, we want you to try things out and see if it is a good fit.

'It's a win-win. Potential adopters don't feel pressure to commit right away, and pets get a break from the stressful shelter environment, which also opens space for more animals who need our help.'

The programme also delays payment and final adoption paperwork for up to two weeks.

During this period, the pet remains the legal property of the organisation. If the adoption is not finalised, staff gain valuable insights into the animal's behaviour in a home setting to assist future placements.

The San Diego Humane Society is currently caring for 1,550 animals, with an average stay of 51 days. The organisation recently recorded its highest number of adult dogs in care, with September and October exceeding capacity compared with previous years.

Weitzman added: 'We have to find creative ways to connect people with our amazing animals. Adoption is always the best option - our pets go home already spayed or neutered, microchipped and vaccinated, and we are here to support every adopter every step of the way.'