Josh Hutcherson Joins Hill's Pet Nutrition for NBCUniversal Local's Clear The Shelters Campaign

Despite recent improvements in animal shelter statistics, the shelter crisis persists, with Shelter Animals Count reporting an increase of 147,000 animals added to U.S. shelters by the end of 2025. Large dogs remain particularly affected, spending 70% longer in shelters than small dogs and facing greater adoption hurdles. Hutcherson, who has two large rescue dogs, Driver and Manchi, emphasizes the need for support in finding homes for shelter pets.

"Helping shelter pets is a cause that's close to my heart," Hutcherson said. He noted the bond he has with his own dogs and expressed a desire to help others experience that connection. He praised Hill's commitment to providing quality nutrition for shelter pets for over 20 years.

Last year, the Clear The Shelters campaign adopted out over 160,000 pets and raised more than $628,000 for participating shelters. This year, Hutcherson aims to inspire even more adoptions.

Hill's Heart for Shelters program has helped over 16 million cats and dogs find new homes and has provided more than $300 million in nutrition to shelters. Adoption kits will be available at select shelters in August, containing starter supplies for new pet families.

Carrick Massey, Senior VP of U.S. Marketing at Hill's, expressed excitement about Hutcherson's involvement, stating his advocacy will encourage communities to adopt and support shelters amidst ongoing capacity challenges.

The adoption campaign runs from August 1 to 31, with fundraising continuing through September 15. Interested individuals can adopt, volunteer, donate, or foster pets through ClearTheShelters.com.

Hill's Pet Nutrition has been a leader in science-led pet nutrition for over 75 years, dedicated to enhancing the relationships between pets and their owners. The Clear The Shelters initiative, benefiting countless animals, began in 2015 and has resulted in more than 1.3 million adoptions and raised over $5.6 million.