Josh Hutcherson Teams Up with Hill's Pet Nutrition for Clear The Shelters Campaign

Josh Hutcherson Returns for Clear The Shelters with Hill's Pet Nutrition

In an inspiring effort to promote pet adoption, actor and shelter-pet advocate Josh Hutcherson has reunited with Hill's Pet Nutrition for NBCUniversal Local's Clear The Shelters initiative this August. This marks not only Hutcherson's return but also Hill's ninth consecutive year of involvement with the campaign, now serving as its premier presenting sponsor.

The mission of Clear The Shelters is simple yet impactful: to encourage the adoption of shelter pets while raising crucial funds for animal shelters nationwide. The previous year's event was notably successful, achieving unprecedented figures by finding homes for over 160,000 pets and gathering more than $628,000 for animal shelters across the country. With this backdrop, Hutcherson aims to further inspire the public to embrace the joys of pet parenthood.

According to recent data from Shelter Animals Count, the plight of shelter pets remains significant, as 147,000 animals were added to U.S. shelters in 2025 alone. Large dogs, in particular, tend to face more challenges, often spending 70% longer waiting for adoption compared to their smaller counterparts. Hutcherson, a proud dog dad to two large rescue dogs, understands these dynamics firsthand. He expressed his heartfelt commitment to helping shelter animals, stating, "Helping shelter pets is a cause that's close to my heart. My dogs have given me more love than I could have imagined, and I know there are so many incredible animals waiting for a home."

Through his renewed partnership with Hill's, Hutcherson highlights the importance of quality nutrition in improving the lives of shelter pets. Hill's Pet Nutrition has been a steadfast supporter of animal welfare, contributing over $300 million in pet food to help shelter animals in need through their Food, Shelter & Love program. This initiative has successfully aided more than 16 million cats and dogs in finding new homes. Additionally, during August, Hill's will offer adoption kits at select shelters, ensuring that new pet parents have a smooth transition into their new roles, complete with starter bags of Hill's Science Diet and helpful coupons.

Carrick Massey, Senior Vice President of U.S. Marketing at Hill's Pet Nutrition, shared his excitement about Hutcherson's involvement, remarking that his passion for animal advocacy is instrumental in motivating communities to take action. The coming month promises to be a pivotal time for both awareness and adoption efforts, as Hutcherson and Hill's work together to extend their message and support to as many shelters as possible.

The Clear The Shelters campaign runs from August 1–31, with extended fundraising opportunities through mid-September. There are numerous ways for community members to contribute, including:
1. Adoption: Visit ClearTheShelters.com to find local participating shelters ready to help you meet your new furry friend.
2. Volunteering: Shelters are in constant need of dedicated volunteers. If you can’t adopt, consider spending time at a local rescue to assist.
3. Donating: Monetary contributions can be made directly at ClearTheSheltersFund.org, where all funds will exclusively benefit shelters in need.
4. Fostering: By offering a temporary home to a shelter pet, you can significantly alleviate overcrowding and help prepare them for adoption.

As August approaches, the collaboration of Hutcherson, Hill's Pet Nutrition, and NBCUniversal Local signifies a shared commitment to making 2026 a landmark year for pet adoptions. The campaign not only aims to find loving homes for shelter pets but also to confront the challenges faced by shelters nationwide. For more details on getting involved or to learn more about Hill's contributions to pet welfare, visit HillsClearTheShelters.com.

Together, we can strive to give every shelter pet the chance they deserve, fostering bonds that enrich lives and strengthen communities.