NBC’s ‘Clear the Shelters’ Event to Feature Boise Area Facilities

Looks like our shelter pets are going to be on a national stage.

This year NBC will once again be putting the nation's attention on our shelter pets. Each year the network puts these animals in the spotlight with their Clear the Shelters event. This year, the seventh for NBC, the event will take place August 23 through September 19.

According to the website, the event has been successful over the years.

NBC Universal Local is teaming up with hundreds of shelters across the country to host Clear the Shelters, a nationwide pet adoption drive in August 2021 that helps find loving homes for animals in need. More than 551,000 pets have found their forever homes since 2015.

Be sure to tune in as you may see some familiar faces.

A few of those shelters that will be featured this year can be found right here in the Boise area. That means some of the pets you see this year are actually just down the street. And before the event gets underway, more shelters can register to be a part of this national pet adoption drive.

Here are local shelters participating this year:

Simply Cats Adoption Center - Boise

Looking for a cat? Simply Cats in Boise is dedicated to finding felines homes in our area. They are a cageless, no-kill shelter. Simply Cats was also just voted Boise's Best Local Nonprofit in Best of Boise 2021.

Pet Haven Inc - Nampa

Crazy for felines? Pet Haven Inc was founded in 1971. According to their website, they see 2,500 cats a year in their facilities.

West Valley Humane Society - Caldwell

Looking for a dog or cat to complete your family? West Valley Humane Society not only has pets available for adoption, but they also offer preventative care, including vaccine and microchip clinics.

Of course, you don't have to wait to adopt one of these adorable animals.

If you've ever considered bringing a pet into your home, I recommend you do it. I don't know what I would do without the love and joy that I get from my dog Oliver. He truly is the one of the biggest delights of my life.

Pets can also improve your mental health, according to WebMD, as they can provide the following...

Companionship - Pets are loyal and they love you no matter what. They are always there and always willing to do what you want to do. Ever talk to your pet like they are a person? There's a reason for that. WebMD believes this companionship also opens you up to forming relationship with other people.

A Better Mood - WebMD says that just looking your pet in the eye will boost your mood. It's all because of a hormone called oxytocin that gets released in your body when looking at your pet. This mood-boosting, love hormone can lift your spirits.

Healthier Routines - My dog Oliver and I walk just about every single day. I know it's good for him, which is why I do it. However, moving my body is also good for me. In addition, WebMD says having a responsibility to care for your pet will spill over into other parts of your life.

So stop any of our local shelters and allow yourself to fall in love with one of these sweet faces. You'll be glad you did! Trust me.