Before stepping into shelters as an advocate, Josh Hutcherson walked in as a pet parent with an open heart. He didn’t just adopt one dog, he rescued two. And according to him, it was a life-changing moment.
“Adopting my rescue dogs Manchi and Driver truly changed my life and ignited my passion for shelter pets,” he shared.
“As an actor who's played the underdog, it means a lot to support a brand making such a big difference," he explained. The actor best known for playing Peeta Mellark in 'The Hunger Games' is channeling that same compassion into a national movement.
His dogs, Manchi and Driver, are both shelter adoptees. Together, these two dogs became his grounding force through years of chaotic schedules, red carpets, and film sets. “I hope anyone thinking about adoption opens their hearts to these deserving animals,” he said.
Josh is encouraging people to have a similar experience, joining forces with Hill’s Pet Nutrition for their eighth year supporting NBCUniversal Local’s Clear The Shelters, the largest pet adoption and donation drive in the U.S. But the actor's involvement goes far beyond lending his face to a campaign.
Making room for more happy endings:
The actor’s journey from adopter to advocate came full circle recently at Pasadena Humane, a long-time Hill’s shelter partner. There, he met Lula, a dog rescued from the LA wildfires, and Catnip, a playful kitten waiting for her new family.
According to Hill’s 2025 State of Shelter Pet Adoption Report, 5.8 million cats and dogs entered U.S. shelters in the past year. Even with a slight drop in intake, shelters are over capacity, taking in 103,000 more animals in 2024 than they rehomed.
Here’s how you can help, even if you can’t adopt:
Adopt: If you’re ready to welcome a new family member, now’s the time. Hill’s is offering adoption kits (starter food, supplies, and coupons) at select shelters nationwide this August.
Foster: “If adoption isn't feasible for you right now… consider fostering,” said Hannah Shaw, better known as Kitten Lady. “It’s a vital bridge for pets on their journey to loving families.” Shaw has partnered with Hill’s to bring awareness and resources to shelters, especially for vulnerable kittens in need of temporary care.
Donate: Through Sept. 15, Hutcherson and Hill’s will match donations up to $25,000 via ClearTheSheltersFund.org in partnership with Greater Good Charities. Apart from this, purchasing Hill's products helps support thousands of shelter pets across the country.