So many adorable fur babies, so little time! Clear The Shelters, NBCUniversal Local’s nationwide pet adoption and donation campaign, is returning in 2023 for its ninth consecutive year from Aug. 1 to 31.
Below, you can find pets who are up for adoption from NBC New York's partner shelters. The list will be updated on a rolling basis, so make sure you come back and share this page with someone looking to find their new best friend.
To learn more about Clear The Shelters 2023 and search for adoptable pets in your area, visit cleartheshelters.com. You can also donate to your local animal shelters and rescue groups by visiting clearthesheltersfund.org.
Follow Clear The Shelters on Twitter and Instagram to stay up to date on this year's pet adoption and donation news: Twitter @ClearTheShelter Instagram: @cleartheshelters
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Bentley was originally rescued from Texas where he spent time working as a livestock guardian. He is about 3 years old and is super loving with the people he knows and is comfortable with. He can be a little shy at first when meeting new people.
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Bentley is fine with encountering other dogs in public, he is recommended to be an only dog at home. If you're interested in adopting him, contact Lorraine Forster of Happy Life Animal Rescue in Pawling, New York, at 845-216-4221 or lorraineforster@happylifeanimalrescue.org
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Meet Affogato! He was rescued from Puerto Rico back in November of 2022 and he's been at Happy Life Animal Rescue since. He’s a terrier mix and can be a little shy at first, but once he knows you he’ll be like glue on you.
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This handsome pup is a silly boy who loves to play and seeks attention. He’s a smart boy who really needs to find his forever family. If you're interested in adopting him, contact Lorraine Forster of Happy Life Animal Rescue in Pawling, New York, at 845-493-0094 or lorraineforster@happylifeanimalrescue.org
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Meet Molly. She is a very laid-back, relaxed dog but is ALWAYS ready for a walk, run, hike, or even just a ride in the car. Molly loves every person she meets but holds a special place in her heart for children. Molly is not crate-trained because she is so well-behaved when left alone and is not destructive. If you are looking for a calm, affectionate family dog that loves to follow you everywhere, then Molly is your girl.
If you're interested in adopting her, contact Alissa McLaughlin of Cold Nose Warm Heart Dog Rescue in Branchville, New Jersey at alissa@coldnosewarmheart.org or call 973-903-7378.
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Meet Pippen aka Pip. He is an approximately 3 years old male beagle mix who loves running with his foster mom, rain or shine. He'll do best in a home without small children or other animals. Pip happily goes into his crate at bedtime. He is highly food motivated and loves to play with toys.
If you're interested in adopting him, contact Alissa McLaughlin of Cold Nose Warm Heart Dog Rescue in Branchville, New Jersey at alissa@coldnosewarmheart.org or call 973-903-7378.
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Bailey is a sweet 6-year-old girl. She was adopted as a puppy but her previous owner gave her little to no training and then returned for essentially not knowing things she had never been taught. She wasn't socialized with other dogs but she LOVES people.
If you're interested in adopting Bailey, contact Amy Brostoff of Bideawee - Manhattan at my.brostoff@bideawee.org or call 866-262-8133.
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Adorable Annie is a playful girl whose favorite activity is the exhilarating pursuit of cat wands. She is a special needs girl with a rare and treatable condition, Feline Hyperesthesia Syndrome (FHS) which causes small focal seizures. She only needs medication twice a day to stay healthy and happy. Will you be the one to finally give her the loving home she deserves?
If you're interested in adopting Annie, contact Maya Schmidt of Dutchess County SPCA at maya.schmidt@dcspca.org or call 347-885-9051.
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Tortilla is a delightful cat who is just like a burrito, filled with all kinds of goodness. She's a friendly and chatty kitty who loves to greet her human friends every morning during breakfast time.
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A chatty lady, Tortilla is a big fan of cat wands and window-gazing.
If you're interested in adopting her, contact Maya Schmidt of Dutchess County SPCA at maya.schmidt@dcspca.org or call 347-885-9051.
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Meet Nyla! She has been with @petanimalwelfaresociety for 390 days after an owner surrender. Shelter staff find her to be very friendly and likes attention but she will also let you know she is done with the attention with a swat.
If you're interested in adopting Nyla, contact Kerry Dobson of PAWS CT at paws@pawsct.org or call 203-984-3986.
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Meet Rue! She came to PAWS as a 6-month-old puppy from an Atlanta transport. She was adopted and returned as an 11-month-old because the owner claims she was too hyperactive. She's an energetic and friendly girl who will do well with an active family willing to keep her busy and work on her training, especially when she meets new people for the first time.
If you're interested in adopting Rue, contact Kerry Dobson of PAWS CT at paws@pawsct.org or call 203-984-3986.
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Meet Brooke! She is one of the sweetest cats you'll meet, which is why it's so heartbreaking to hear that she was dumped outside when her owners decided they just didn't want her anymore. She has hyperthyroid (meaning she wouldn't have survived more than a few days outside), but she is great at taking her medicine and shelter staff have her thyroid regulated.
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Brooke is 12 years old and she is very affectionate. One of her favorite things to do is sit in the window of her free roam room looking out into the lobby, watching all of the people walking through, wondering when it will be her turn to go home.
If you're interested in adopting Brooke, please contact Rhianna Montanez Velez of Father John's Animal House in Lafayette, New Jersey, at rhianna@fatherjohns.org or call 973-997-7264.
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If you're interested in adopting Ana, please contact Rhianna Montanez Velez of Father John's Animal House in Lafayette, New Jersey, at rhianna@fatherjohns.org or call 973-997-7264.
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Meet Brie! She's a 5-year-old Lab mix who is spry and energetic. She loves to be in the middle of all the fun! She also makes an excellent cuddle buddy.
If you're interested in adopting her, contact David Ceely of Little Shelter in Huntington, New York, at info@littleshelter.com or call 516-617-7252.
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Meet Mr. Big! He's a 15-year-old Poodle Mix who was born with a birth deformity that left him with bowed arms. Even so, he is Little Shelter's friendliest, most outgoing, and even best-dressed pup!
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If you're interested in adopting Mr. Big, contact David Ceely of Little Shelter in Huntington, New York, at info@littleshelter.com or call 516-617-7252.
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Meet Drake! He is a young Husky with a contagious smile and an insatiable zest for life. With his ever-present smile, Drake has a natural charm that draws people in. He is an outgoing and social pup who loves to meet new friends (both human and canine). He will quickly flip over on his back to absorb as many belly rubs as possible.
If you're interested in adopting him, contact Heather Achenbach of SAVE, A Friend to Homeless Animals in Skillman, New Jersey, at heather@savehomelessanimals.org or call 609-309-5214.
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Meet Orange Julius! He may be large at 80 lbs, but he is gentle and sweet and walks very well on a leash. He arrived at the shelter knowing several commands such as ‘sit’, ‘shake’, ‘down’, ‘drop’ and more. He takes treats ever so gently. OJ is housetrained, quiet, and both dog and child friendly. His ideal home is with people who are both active and relaxed. As much as OJ enjoys exercise, he also enjoys downtime. He has spent time in a foster home for the weekend and was described as the consummate houseguest.
If you're interested in adopting him, contact Heather Achenbach of SAVE, A Friend to Homeless Animals in Skillman, New Jersey, at heather@savehomelessanimals.org or call 609-309-5214.
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Meet Elijah! He may be a little crunchy on the outside with his folded ear and half-missing tail but he's nothing but sweetness on the inside. He would love to spend his days sitting next to you on the couch watching movies or playing video games.
If you're interested in adopting Elijah, contact Amy Gravel of Best Friends Animal Society in New York City at amyg@bestfriends.org or call 929-292-8300.
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Meet Le Pew! He is a 10-year-old cat who knows what he likes! He's calm and sweet and will let you know when he's ready for pets or when he's ready to have his alone time. He's also always dressed up and ready for any occasion.
If you're interested in adopting Elijah, contact Amy Gravel of Best Friends Animal Society in New York City at amyg@bestfriends.org or call 929-292-8300.
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Meet Mia! Don't her age fool you because she has a lot of spunk and energy and she's ready for her next adventure. She enjoys the simple pleasures in life, such as a nice stroll around the neighborhood and some tasty snacks!
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Mia is looking for a home that will spoil her with love, comfy beds, and affection. If you're interested in adopting her, contact Kathryn Schubert of Connecticut Humane Society at kschubert@cthumane.org or call 860-736-6413.
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Pura is a quiet and reserved kitty looking for a peaceful home to settle into. She'll do best in an adult-only home with no other pets because Pura loves to get all of the attention!
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Pura can be a bit sassy at times, so understanding cat body language and having experience with sassy cats are two important things to consider when adopting this pretty girl.
If you're interested in adopting her, contact Kathryn Schubert of Connecticut Humane Society at kschubert@cthumane.org or call 860-736-6413.
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Calvin is a big baby grinning from ear to ear! He is a stunning dog friendly with dogs big and small. This beautiful boy is looking for a chilled-out adult household where he can be himself. Calvin gets over looked constantly because he needs a chance to get to know you, but once he does he's very affectionate! He knows many commands, has great leash manners and can't wait to find his forever home.
Contact Olivia Gonzalez of Associated Humane Society in Newark, New Jersey, at ogonzalez@ahsppz.org or call 973-824-7080 if you're interested in adopting Calvin.
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Snoopy is the life of the party! This 4-year-old American pit bull mix is a great big boy with a huge heart- and stomach! This treat-loving, eager-to-please boy is searching for an adult household and is very dog friendly! He loves to play with other canine companions, running around the yard being his silly self.
Contact Olivia Gonzalez of Associated Humane Society in Newark, New Jersey, at ogonzalez@ahsppz.org or call 973-824-7080 if you're interested in adopting Snoopy.
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Meet Cleo! She is wonderfully sweet and affectionate. She's very relaxed. She gets along with other mellow animals, and she would do well in a home either with or without an animal companion.
If you're interested in adopting her, contact Ann LaGoy of Stray Healthcare & Education to Limit Population at ann@strayhelp.org or call 845-489-5211.
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Meet Levi! This 7-year-old gray tiger cat is a gentle giant who is quite shy but purrs almost as soon as you touch him. He is surprisingly agile for such a large cat, and he loves to climb up and down his "kitty condo" to look at the goings on outside. Levi would be a wonderful companion for someone who wants to help him continue to come out of his shell and heal from the disruption of being returned to the shelter after six years. He would do well in a moderately quiet home with, or without, other companion animals.
If you're interested in adopting him, contact Ann LaGoy of Stray Healthcare & Education to Limit Population at ann@strayhelp.org or call 845-489-5211.
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Meet ChaCha! She came to the shelter as a bit of a medical mystery. She required an extended hospitalization before she was diagnosed and treated for meningitis suspected secondary to herpes virus (only contagious to dogs). Today, she is a normal bouncy puppy, eating well and running around playing – and searching for a forever home!
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Due to the herpes virus, the vets advise not having her live with dogs. ChaCha loves bouncing through the backyard at her foster home. She is very much a lap dog, loves being doted on, and takes all of her medication without resistance.
If you're interested in adopting ChaCha, contact Aubrey Durenberger of Ramapo-Bergen Animal Refuge at adoptlove@rbari.org or call 201-337-5180.
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Meet JJ! This guy is a true tiny warrior – a fragile, domestic New Zealand bunny, abandoned alone, vulnerable to the elements and predators, in an urban area with no access to food. The 3-year-old rabbit was also battling injury, infection, severe ear mites, swelling in his face and stasis. He somehow survived until rescue, when he was provided with intensive emergency medical care.
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JJ is overcoming these obstacles to finally live the life he has always deserved, as a pampered bunny. He is doing very well in his recovery, loves to take his medication and does binkies around the small animal tiny house! Please share to help this adorable little warrior find a home of his own!
If you're interested in adopting JJ, contact Aubrey Durenberger of Ramapo-Bergen Animal Refuge at adoptlove@rbari.org or call 201-337-5180.
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Meet Leo! Upon surrender to rescue, Leo was covered in thick scabs as a result of self-injury from his itchy, uncomfortable skin condition. He was in such a neglected state that he scratched his own face and neck raw. Leo was immediately started on a medication regimen, and his recovery has been amazing!
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Despite his long road to wellness and comfort, Leo has remained SO extremely loving and affectionate. He is truly a once-in-a-lifetime cat who will leave his paw prints all over your lap and your soul.
If you're interested in adopting Leo, contact Aubrey Durenberger of Ramapo-Bergen Animal Refuge at adoptlove@rbari.org or call 201-337-5180.
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Meet Milo. This little 2-year-old guy is only 8 lbs, but don't let his tiny size fool you -- he has a big personality! Milo is a true lap dog who loves being close to his people. Milo is a smart and playful pup who loves keeping his body and mind active with puzzles, chew sticks, playtime, and walks.
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Milo also LOVES his fellow canines and has been getting along great with his canine foster sibling. As loving and playful as he is, Milo finds life a bit stressful. He's been working with a trainer to help build his confidence so that he can start to feel cozy and comfortable in his forever home, and we're happy to report that he's making incredible progress.
If you're interested in adopting Milo, contact Katherine Hieber of Heart and Bones in New York City at adopt@heartsandbonesrescue.com or call 972-638-0130.
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Meet Peachy! She was left in a Harlem basement in a box that said "Pregnant! Help me!" and a good Samaritan rushed her to Rock N' Rescue. She practically spent her last penny to save this poor girl as she had seen others abandoned and killed on the streets in that same area. It turned out she was not pregnant, just in heat, and the shelter spayed her and got her into a loving foster home to be spoiled!
Not only is she a gem but she adores her foster kid and their blind cat and their dog. If you're interested in adopting Peachy Keen, contact James Scova at james@rnrpets.org or call 914-774-8423.
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Meet Bella! She is the sweetest girl on the planet. She has been housetrained and leash trained. Bella loves EVERYONE - cats, dogs and kids! She was abandoned by her family and now she's looking for a new forever home.
If you're interested in adopting Bella, contact James Scova at james@rnrpets.org or call 914-774-8423.
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Meet Nico! Born in mid-July, 2022, her half moustache is only part of her cuteness. She loves to look at you with her soulful eyes and will even talk to you. She is full of life and full of personality. You could say that this little one wants to be your best friend. The perfect companion for those lazy nights on the couch.
If you're interested in adopting Nico, contact Kym LaMarr of Save The Animals Rescue Team in Little Falls, New Jersey, at info@startpets.net or call 973-489-1546.
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Meet Beck! She and her family were rescued from a cat colony in the area. Beck was affected by an upper respiratory infection, leaving her with only one functional eye…or so rescuers thought. Two surgeries later, it was discovered that her eye never formed properly from birth and was causing her much discomfort until it was removed. That didn't slow her down at all! She just needs love and a companion.
If you're interested in adopting Beck, contact Kym LaMarr of Save The Animals Rescue Team in Little Falls, New Jersey, at info@startpets.net or call 973-489-1546.
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Meet Serafina! She is the sweetest girl in town and can’t wait to be your new BFF. Miss Serafina is a goofy and playful pup, but she does take some time to warm up to new friends. To help get her to warm up to you, rewarding her with gentle pep talks and yummy treats works like a charm! Serafina will need an adopter who can keep her busy with lots of fun enrichment and playtime to see her become her best doggy self.
She is looking for a home in a low-traffic area and would do best in a home with teens and up.
If you're interested in adopting Serafina, contact Alexander Craig of ASPCA Adoption Center at Alexander.Craig@aspca.org or call 347-931-2752.
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Meet Oatmeal! Sweet and good for the heart describe Oatmeal perfectly. He is an independent gentleman with a heart of gold that is often happy to join you at the breakfast table for the most important meow of the day. He enjoys attention on his own terms, seeking out pets and gentle scratches whenever the mood strikes him. He’s also a big fan of playtime and is learning to keep the play limited to his toys. As his name implies, Oatmeal enjoys food and is never one to turn down a treat. Oatmeal would do best in a home with teens and up.
If you're interested in adopting Oatmeal, contact Alexander Craig of ASPCA Adoption Center at Alexander.Craig@aspca.org or call 347-931-2752.
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Meet Gandalf, a sweet senior on the market for a great retirement home. After living outside for most of his life, Gandalf is searching for a peaceful home for his golden years. This adorable, affectionate dog loves people and, despite some arthritis, still enjoys his walks. He is house-trained, well-behaved, and knows his basic commands.
If you're interested in adopting Gandalf, contact Tayef Farrar of Second Chance Rescue NYC at tayef@nycsecondchancerescue.org or call 718-791-0100.
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Little Debbie was found abandoned in a makeshift shelter meant for stray cats. Her rescuers coaxed her out of the shelter with the only thing they had in their car: Little Debbie Donuts. Since then, Little Debbie has been stealing hearts everywhere she travels, making friends with felines, and becoming the star of her neighborhood walks. She is a wonderful, charismatic, affectionate dog searching for a home.
If you're interested in adopting Little Debbie, contact Tayef Farrar of Second Chance Rescue NYC at tayef@nycsecondchancerescue.org or call 718-791-0100.
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Meet Ollie! He was a victim of the horrific hoarding case in Brick, New Jersey, in December 2022. Ollie needs a quiet, understanding home that will continue to give him structure and training. While he is not a couch potato he would appreciate nap time after having some fun and exercise. He is good with some dogs and some cats.
If you're interested in adopting Ollie, contact Laurie Fasinski of Jersey Shore Animal Center at director@jerseyshoreanimalcenter.org or call 732-920-1600.
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Meet Rhonda! She needs a home with no other cats and can live with a dog that has been around cats. Rhonda loves to talk and be brushed. And while she is so loved by shelter staff and volunteers, Rhonda deserves to find her forever home.
If you're interested in adopting Rhonda, contact Laurie Fasinski of Jersey Shore Animal Center at director@jerseyshoreanimalcenter.org or call 732-920-1600.
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Meet Nina! Nina is a ton of fun. She enjoys playing with toys and figuring out puzzles. She is always up for getting cuddles or doing her own thing with a toy. This beautiful girl will be hard not to fall in love with once you see her happy, smiley face.
If you're interested in adopting Nina, contact Diane Ashton of St. Hubert's Animal Welfare Center in Madison, New Jersey, at dashton@sthuberts.org or call 973-903-2538.
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Meet Ricky! This Bluetick Coonhound mix is a bundle of joy! Ricky loves squeaky toys and going for long, sniffy walks. He is bouncy with a pep in his step and hopes you will howl all the way home with him! And let's face it -- his ears are simply magnificent.
If you're interested in adopting Ricky, contact Diane Ashton of St. Hubert's Animal Welfare Center in Madison, New Jersey, at dashton@sthuberts.org or call 973-903-2538.
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Meet Jacque! This little guy is a very special one-year-old cat in search of a special adopter. North Shore Animal League America's veterinary team discovered Jacque had a heart murmur. This will require medication for the rest of his life but no worries – this is covered at cost by the shelter's Pet Health Centers who will make caring for his condition as easy as it is falling in love with him. Jacque is ready for a forever home (where he will be the only pet.) He’s a character – playful and a bit of a scamp.
If you're interested in adopting Jacque, contact Rachael Rudman of North Shore Animal League America in Port Washington, New York, at adoptions@animalleague.org or call 516-883-7900.
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Meet Duke! This 9-year-old guy is a staff favorite, spending lots of his time “helping” out in the Adoptions Center. He may be on the older side but he can play like a puppy. He loves to play fetch (all day, if you’re willing) and is a big, sweet, smiling senior dog so deserving of a loving retirement home.
If you're interested in adopting Duke, contact Rachael Rudman of North Shore Animal League America in Port Washington, New York, at adoptions@animalleague.org or call 516-883-7900.
