Josh Hutcherson, known for his role in “The Hunger Games,” recently shared a heartwarming story about how his girlfriend, Claudia Traisac, inspired him to rename his beloved rescue dog. In an exclusive interview with PEOPLE, the actor revealed that his girlfriend, who hails from Madrid, had difficulty pronouncing the original name of their dog, Smudge. This led the couple to rename the canine to a more Spanish-friendly moniker, Manchi. The couple’s love and consideration for their furry companion showcase the strong bond they share, demonstrating the importance of inclusivity even when it comes to pets.
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Hutcherson, 32, is a proud dog dad to two rescue pit bulls, Driver and Manchi. His relationship with Traisac, which began in 2013 when they co-starred in the film Escobar: Paradise Lost, has been a driving force behind his passion for rescue animals. The actor expressed his fondness for the unique personalities of shelter animals, highlighting the little quirks that make each one special. This sentiment underscores the importance of adopting pets in need and giving them a loving forever home.
The actor’s journey with rescue animals started during the filming of “The Hunger Games,” where he adopted his first pit bull. Over the years, Hutcherson welcomed more furry friends into his life, including Manchi. This year, he has teamed up with Hill’s Pet Nutrition to support the 2025 Clear the Shelters campaign, which aims to promote pet adoption and raise funds for animal welfare causes. Through his partnership with the campaign, Hutcherson hopes to raise awareness about the joy and fulfillment that rescue animals bring into people’s lives.
Clear the Shelters, now in its 11th year, has been instrumental in helping nearly 1.2 million pets find their forever homes and has raised millions to support animal welfare efforts. Hutcherson’s dedication to the cause reflects his genuine love for animals and his desire to make a positive impact in their lives. By sharing his story and actively participating in the campaign, the actor encourages others to consider adoption when looking to expand their furry family.
Hutcherson’s personal experiences with his dogs, Driver and Manchi, offer a glimpse into the joy and companionship that rescue animals can bring. From overcoming challenges like Driver’s recovery from a gunshot wound to the everyday antics of his playful pups, Hutcherson’s journey as a dog dad is filled with love, laughter, and heartwarming moments. His commitment to providing a loving home for shelter animals serves as an inspiration for pet lovers everywhere.
Despite the demanding nature of his job, Hutcherson finds solace and support in the presence of his beloved dogs. The unconditional love and comfort they provide help him navigate the highs and lows of his career, offering a sense of stability and joy amidst the chaos of Hollywood. His story exemplifies the profound bond that exists between humans and their animal companions, showcasing the transformative power of pet adoption and the enduring happiness it brings.
As Hutcherson continues to champion the cause of pet adoption and advocate for animal welfare, his message resonates with animal lovers worldwide. By sharing his personal journey with rescue animals and the love he has for his furry family members, the actor brings attention to a cause that is close to his heart. Through his partnership with Clear the Shelters and his dedication to giving shelter animals a second chance at a brighter future, Hutcherson is making a difference, one wagging tail at a time.