Annual NBC and Telemundo adoption event launched 2015, partnering with 1,000+ animal shelters nationwide for fee-waived August adoption days. The campaign facilitated 700,000+ adoptions between 2015-2023, making it one of the largest coordinated shelter adoption efforts.
The Model
Social media amplified local shelter participation. #ClearTheShelters trended every August. Waived adoption fees ($50-300 normally) removed financial barrier, theoretically expanding adopter pool beyond typical demographics.
Criticism emerged: impulse adoptions without proper screening led to higher return rates. Some shelters refused to participate in fee waivers, arguing they attracted wrong adopters who didn’t value animals acquired for free.
Pandemic Adaptation
2020 event went online-only due to COVID-19 restrictions. 2021 returned to in-person with safety protocols. Competition arose: Best Friends Animal Society launched rival “Empty the Shelters” monthly events starting 2021, and Bissell Pet Foundation ran similar “Empty the Shelters” programs.
The Reality
Success metric depended on perspective: short-term adoption spikes were undeniable, but return rates within 6 months ran 10-20% — higher than traditional adoptions with fees and screening. Shelter workers experienced being torn: wanting animals adopted while fearing poor matches destined for returns.
Media coverage showcased heartwarming reunion stories while obscuring behind-the-scenes strain on staff and resources managing adoption surges. The event highlighted tension between moving animals out of shelters quickly vs. ensuring appropriate matches for long-term success.
Sources:
- NBC Clear the Shelters campaign statistics 2015-2023
- Shelter adoption return rate studies
- Participating shelter feedback surveys