Clear the Shelters: last push to get animals adopted, SAFE Haven Spirit Week

Each summer, WRAL, NBC and your local animal shelters partner for Clear the Shelters, a nationwide pet adoption drive that helps find loving homes for animals in need. More than 1.2 million pets have found their forever homes and more than $5 million has been raised in donations since Clear the Shelters launched in 2015.

From Aug. 1 through Aug. 31, 2026, shelters are reducing or waiving fees to help you bring home a new family member. Consider taking time this month to adopt a new pet or donate to a local shelter to help pets find their forever homes.

SAFE Haven for cats Spirit Week (August 25-31)

SAFE Haven is launching a spirit week for the remainder of August. Cat adoption fees have been lowered to $25. Additionally, if adopters participate in spirit week, the clinic will take an additional $25 off, waiving the adoption fee all together.

Wednesday: Pirate Day Thursday: Toga DayFriday: School Spirit Day Saturday: CATurdaySunday: Pajama Day

Are you ready to adopt a pet?

Many shelters require an application process to make sure your family and home are ready for a new pet. Nonprofit rescues may have even more strict standards. Some include a home visit and follow-ups to make sure your new pet is a good fit.

One thing to keep in mind: Even when adoption fees are waived, adopting a pet is an on-going financial commitment. Be sure you understand the costs of pet ownership and care, including necessary vaccinations for a long and healthy life. Households who prepare are better able to help a pet adapt and foster good animal citizenship.

Local animal shelters offering discounts in month of August

Can't adopt? Give time, money, goods

And if the time is not right for your family, there are many ways you can still help shelter pets by donating time, money or goods like food and snuggly blankets.