Get ready, Bay Area pet lovers — the region’s most anticipated animal welfare event is back. NBC Bay Area and Telemundo 48 have officially announced the return of their annual pet adoption and donation campaign, “Clear the Shelters Presented by Hill’s Pet Nutrition,” set to take place this August. The initiative aims to connect hundreds of homeless animals with loving families while rallying community support for local shelters and rescues.

A Summer Tradition for a Cause

For years, Clear the Shelters has grown into a nationwide movement, but the Bay Area edition holds a special place in the hearts of local communities. This August, NBC Bay Area and Telemundo 48 are once again teaming up with shelters across the region to make adoption easier, more accessible, and more joyful than ever. The campaign is presented by Hill’s Pet Nutrition, a longtime partner committed to improving the lives of pets and the people who care for them.

The event isn’t just about adoption — it’s also a chance to donate. Even if you can’t bring a pet home, you can still make a difference by contributing food, supplies, or funds to participating shelters. The campaign encourages everyone to take part, whether they’re first-time adopters or seasoned pet parents looking to expand their family.

What to Expect This Year

  • Adoption fee waivers or discounts at participating shelters
  • On-site events with pet meet-and-greets and family activities
  • Virtual adoption resources for those who prefer to browse online
  • Donation drives for food, bedding, toys, and medical supplies

Why Clear the Shelters Matters

Animal shelters across the Bay Area face a constant challenge: too many pets, not enough homes. Clear the Shelters addresses this head-on by creating a concentrated push to clear kennels and find forever families. The campaign has successfully placed thousands of animals over the years, and organizers hope to beat those numbers in 2026.

Beyond the numbers, the initiative raises awareness about the importance of pet adoption over purchasing. By spotlighting shelter animals — often mixed breeds, seniors, and special-needs pets — the campaign helps break down misconceptions and encourages people to consider adoption first. It’s a win-win: animals get loving homes, and families gain loyal companions.

How You Can Get Involved

Whether you’re ready to adopt, want to donate, or simply spread the word, there are plenty of ways to support Clear the Shelters this August. Follow NBC Bay Area and Telemundo 48 for updates on participating shelters, event schedules, and success stories. Mark your calendars, prepare your homes, and get ready to open your hearts.

Community and Corporate Partnerships Drive Success

The return of Clear the Shelters wouldn’t be possible without the support of local shelters, rescue groups, and corporate partners. Hill’s Pet Nutrition’s presenting sponsorship brings vital resources, including food donations and nutritional expertise, to shelters that often operate on tight budgets. This partnership ensures that adopted pets leave with the best possible start — and that shelters can continue their life-saving work long after the campaign ends.

NBC Bay Area and Telemundo 48 also leverage their platforms to amplify the cause, using on-air segments, digital features, and social media to showcase adoptable pets and highlight the urgency of the shelter crisis. Their reach helps turn a regional event into a community-wide movement, inspiring viewers to take action.

Past Success Stories

Over the years, Clear the Shelters has produced countless heartwarming stories — from senior dogs finding their last-chance homes to kittens adopted by families who never considered themselves “cat people.” These stories serve as powerful reminders that a single adoption can change two lives: the pet’s and the owner’s. The 2026 campaign aims to add many more chapters to that storybook.

Key Takeaways

  • Clear the Shelters returns this August, presented by NBC Bay Area, Telemundo 48, and Hill’s Pet Nutrition.
  • The campaign focuses on pet adoption and donations to support local shelters.
  • Participating shelters will offer reduced fees and host community events.
  • Even non-adopters can contribute by donating supplies or funds.
  • Follow NBC Bay Area and Telemundo 48 for the latest details on locations and times.