On August 4th, as part of NBCUniversal Local's 12th annual Clear the Shelters event, The Animal Rescue Site and Greater Good Charities are flying dozens of cats and dogs out of overcrowded Southern shelters to new homes in Wisconsin. 

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 1,700 partnering shelters to help many cats and dogs find loving homes. 

Since 2015, the annual campaign has led to 1.3 million pet adoptions and raised more than $5.6 million in donations for participating shelters and rescues.

Meet some of the pets waiting for their one-way ticket to freedom. 

Lavender and Her Puppies

Lavender, a 2.5-year-old collie mix, was pulled from an overcrowded shelter with a secret - she was expecting. She arrived at a foster home and shortly after gave birth to nine puppies. She is the most devoted and loving mama dog. Lavender and her puppies are now ready to find loving homes in Wisconsin. Help fly them to freedom. 

Zeus

This six-year-old German shepherd mix arrived at the shelter not because he was difficult or unwanted but heartbroken after his owner passed away. Zeus is housebroken, dog friendly, smart as a whip, knows his basic commands, and is a really good boy. 

He deserves to be loved again and needs a new home. 

Tator

The young pit bull mix arrived underweight and suffering from irritated skin. After a few weeks of nutritious food and medicated baths, this sweet fella is feeling and looking a lot better. Submissive, sweet, and completely loving, this small framed boy lives for attention and gives affection as freely and generously as any dog twice his size. He is ready for a fresh start in Wisconsin and to find someone to love. 

Phoenix

"This beautiful 6-month-old Labrador mix came to the shelter as a cruelty and starvation case - a start to life that is heartbreaking beyond words and one that no puppy should ever know. But Phoenix? She refused to let that be her story. She rose. She healed. And she came out the other side with her tail wagging, her heart wide open, and enough love for absolutely everyone she meets," shared her caretakers. 

They've waited long enough - let's fly them to a better life on our Clear the Shelters Flight to Freedom. Donate now!