Lifesaver Shay Mitchell

Shay Mitchell has "saved a life" by adopting a dog.

The animal loving Pretty Little Liars star has shared her excitement at finding a new pet at a shelter with her fans. She posted a snap of herself with the pup on Instagram and urged others not to buy their pets.

"Adopted a dog from the shelter today and I could not be more excited! Please spade & neuter your animals everyone and ADOPT! #piccomingsoon," she wrote, before sharing the photo.

"Please welcome my new addition, "Angel" ... Couldn't be more excited and happy that I have a new best friend but I also saved a life. Adopting is always a better choice! There are too many strays that need a good home. Check out your local shelters and maybe you will fall in love too! (sic)"

Angel appears to be a light brown mongrel and Shay, 27, has already dressed her new friend up with a pink collar. The star looks thrilled with her pet as she poses next to her with a big grin on her face and dressed down in sports clothes and sunglasses.

The actress' fans also seemed happy with her news and shared their own stories of adopting dogs on her Instagram page.

Shay and her Pretty Little Liars co-star Ashley Benson recently enjoyed a relaxing holiday in Hawaii, where they were snapped splashing around in the ocean.

However, the break doesn't seem to have been enough for Shay who is now back to work.

"Finally, in bed. Long day, crazy week. Goodnight everyone. #helloSaturday (sic)," she recently posted.