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Actor and animal advocate Justin Theroux, alongside his adopted dog Kuma, has partnered with the ASPCA as an ambassador for “The Rescue Effect” national campaign.
The announcement was released on October 27, 2026, from the ASPCA headquarters in New York City, New York 10028, United States. PR Newswire released the press statement on behalf of the ASPCA on October 27, 2026.
Timed to coincide with Adopt a Shelter Dog Month in October, the campaign features an editorial portrait series and promotional video starring Theroux and Kuma across the ASPCA’s digital platforms.
The initiative aims to encourage nationwide dog adoption and fostering while challenging common misconceptions surrounding pit bulls and larger dog breeds.
Theroux adopted Kuma, a pit bull mix, in 2018 from a Texas shelter after she was rescued following Hurricane Harvey.
Kuma is Theroux’s fifth rescue pit bull and has gained a substantial social media following while accompanying him on animal welfare advocacy projects.
ASPCA data indicates that nearly three million dogs entered shelters and rescues in 2025, leaving many facilities operating at or near maximum capacity.
To directly support participating facilities, the ASPCA distributed 2 million dollars in grant funding to 200 shelters nationwide to assist with operating expenses and help waive adoption fees.
My thoughts:
- High-profile celebrity partnerships significantly increase public visibility for shelter dog adoption campaigns.
- Addressing breed discrimination is essential for increasing adoption rates among large dogs and pit bull mixes.
- Grant funding that waives adoption fees removes financial barriers for families considering pet adoption.
- Fostering provides critical decompression time for shelter animals while freeing up kennel space.
- Disaster rescue operations highlight the ongoing need for long-term shelter placement and foster networks.
- Evaluating shelter dogs based on individual personality rather than breed leads to better long-term matches.
Source: ASPCA and PR Newswire
