Clear the Shelters Adoption Drive (Aug 1 - 31)

Every August, shelters across the U.S. join forces for the Clear the Shelters Adoption Drive. This nationwide campaign helps pets find forever homes through free or reduced-fee adoptions and community outreach. Whether you're looking to adopt or simply support the cause, there are plenty of ways to get involved.

What Is Clear the Shelters?

Clear the Shelters is a national initiative that promotes animal adoption by helping shelters connect pets with new families. Organized by NBCUniversal Local, the campaign began in 2015 and has helped over a million pets find homes.

In 2024 alone, the campaign helped more than 168,000 pets find homes nationwide, setting a new record for the national pet adoption drive.

During the campaign, participating shelters work to raise awareness and increase adoption rates through events, fee discounts, and community partnerships. The goal is to help move as many animals as possible into loving homes.

Why August Is a Critical Time for Shelters

Summer is typically the busiest time of year for shelters. Intake numbers rise for a variety of reasons: more stray animals, a higher number of litters, and more pets being surrendered. This puts a strain on shelter space, staffing, and supplies.

Clear the Shelters happens in August for a reason. It helps relieve overcrowding at exactly the time when shelters are overwhelmed. By boosting shelter pet adoptions and encouraging fostering and volunteering, the campaign helps reduce stress on shelter systems and improves outcomes for animals.

How to Adopt During Clear the Shelters

Adopting during the campaign is easier than you might think. Here’s how to get started:

• Search online or visit your local shelter. Use terms like “dogs for adoption near me”, “cats near me” or “rescue dogs near me” to explore available pets. Many shelters post daily updates and offer virtual or in-person meet-and-greets. You can even browse adoptable pets on PetPlace.
• Ask about dog and cat adoption specials. During August many shelters promote “free pet adoption near me” offers through fee waivers or deep discounts, so check their websites or call ahead for details.
• Make sure you're ready. Consider your routine, home setup, and what type of pet fits your life best. Whether it’s a puppy, kitten, or senior dog, staff can help match you with the right animal.
• Follow the shelter’s process. Most adoptions involve an application, a meet-and-greet, and sometimes a home visit. Staff will walk you through it and help set you up for success.
• Explore foster-to-adopt options. If you’re unsure about a full commitment, some shelters offer trial placements. It’s a helpful way to see if the pet is a good fit.

Ways to Help If You’re Not Adopting

You don’t have to adopt to make a difference. There are many other ways to support Clear the Shelters. Here are a few ideas:

• Volunteer at your local shelter. Help walk dogs, clean kennels, answer phones, or assist at events.
• Foster a pet short-term. Giving an animal a temporary home frees up shelter space and prepares them for adoption.
• Donate supplies or funds. Shelters always need food, toys, blankets, and cleaning products, especially during high-intake seasons.
• Share adoptable animals online. Add #adoptdontshop to every post and point followers to resources for low-cost pet adoptions plus any upcoming pet adoption events to boost visibility in your community.
• Attend a community event. Look for a pet adoption event in August hosted by a local shelter or rescue. Even showing up and supporting helps promote visibility.

Each of these actions supports shelters and the animals in their care. They’re easy ways to get involved, no matter your situation.