On August 20th, as part of NBCUniversal Local's 11th annual Clear the Shelters event, The Animal Rescue Site and Greater Good Charities are flying over 130 cats and dogs out of overcrowded Southern shelters to new homes in New Jersey and New Hampshire.

There is an overcrowding crisis occurring at animal shelters due to increase in surrenders due to rising costs, housing insecurity, and a decrease in adopters. Highly adoptable animals are at risk of euthanasia. 

With your continued support, we will swoop in and rescue cats and dogs and fly them to freedom in states with higher adoption rates and open kennels. 

Clear the Shelters nationwide pet adoption campaign is running through August 31 with over 1,600 partnering shelters to help as many cats and dogs find loving homes. 

Since 2012, the annual campaign has led to 1.2 million pet adoptions. There is a live adoption tracker on their website for this year's campaign which has already resulted in over 12,000 adoptions, at the time of writing. 

This life-saving flight will give the pet passengers a second chance and open up kennels in overwhelmed kennels to help another animal in need. Meet just a few of the lucky passengers on the flight below. 

Preacher

This sweet pup was abandoned on the stairs of a country church, so he was named "Preacher". The pit bull mix has so much love to give and enjoys being around other dogs and humans. 

His caretakers shared, "Affection is his specialty — he’s happiest sitting close, leaning in for a snuggle, and offering gentle kisses. His friendly nature and easygoing personality make him a joy to be around, and he’s ready to share that joy with a family of his own."

Remus

The three-year-old hound mix is a gentle giant with a big heart. He is quiet and calm and enjoys taking naps in the sun. According to the shelter, "While he’s thoughtful and calm, Remus shows his affection in subtle ways, always keeping an eye out for a scratch behind the ears or a kind word."

Peanut Butter Patty

Patty arrived as a stray. She is the sweetest dog who steals the heart of everyone she meets. She has never met a stranger and gets along with all animals, even rabbits. Patty is ready to find someone to love unconditionally and just asks the same in return. 

Lucille 

This adorable kitten is ready to entertain with her antics. The shelter told us, "Playful and curious, she’s quick to explore new spaces, chase a toy, or curl up for a nap in a sunny spot. Lucille is learning the world with wide-eyed wonder and a soft, trusting heart." 

Noodle

The young collie mix loves dogs of all sizes and greets everyone she meets with a tail wag. She is ready to make new friends and find a loving home. 

The shelter shared, "This easygoing pup is curious, friendly, and ready to join in on whatever the day brings — whether that’s playtime in the yard or curling up after a good romp."

Donate today to help fly these and many more shelter pets to freedom. Just $10 helps fly a pet 250 miles towards safety.