NBCU Local Launches 12th Annual ‘Clear the Shelters’ Campaign for Pet Adoption on August 1

NBCU Local is set to kick off its 12th annual ‘Clear The Shelters’ campaign, presented by Hill’s Pet Nutrition, from August 1 through August 31, 2026. The campaign aims to promote pet adoption nationwide and will feature extended fundraising efforts through September 15, 2026. Since its launch in 2015, the initiative has helped over 1.3 million pets find homes and raised more than $5.6 million for animal shelters and rescues.

For this year’s campaign, NBC and Telemundo stations will collaborate with shelters across the United States to encourage adoption and collect donations, which can be directed to a specific shelter or the general fund. Additional information about participating shelters can be found at ClearTheSheltersFund.org, where shelters can also register to join the campaign.

Hill’s Pet Nutrition returns for its ninth consecutive year as a campaign partner and will serve as the presenting sponsor for the first time. The company will provide adoption kits containing Hill’s Science Diet, coupons, and other resources to selected shelters.

Online fundraising will again be managed by Greater Good Charities, allowing donations to the general fund from now until September 15. Direct contributions to individual shelters can be made from August 1 to August 31 at ClearTheSheltersFund.org.

WeRescue will continue as the exclusive technology partner, enabling users to browse adoptable pets by various criteria and apply for adoption through their platforms. In addition, The Black Dog will support the campaign for the second year by allowing customers to round up their purchases to donate to the fund and contributing to adopting events at their retail locations.

NBC and Telemundo will each release ‘Clear The Shelters’ television specials on August 7, featuring notable celebrities. These specials aim to raise awareness about pet adoption and the campaign's goals.

For more details about participating shelters, local events, and TV programming, individuals can visit ClearTheShelters.com and the Spanish-language site DesocuparlosAlbergues.com. Both platforms also provide access to the Shelter Registration Portal for shelters wishing to join the campaign.