About:
Right now, you have the power to change the lives of pets in need by supporting the lifesaving work of Ark-Valley Humane Society (AVHS).
In 2024, thanks to the compassion of people like you, AVHS helped 1,723 animals in need through our sheltering, adoption, and community assistance programs. With a Live Release Rate of 98.3%, we are proud to give every animal who comes through our doors the care, love, and second chance they deserve.
We cannot do this without you. Join us to help continue our lifesaving efforts and make a positive impact in the lives of animals in need by donating to AVHS today!
Here are just a few of the ways your generosity makes an impact:
Secure our essential community assistance programs and partnerships to help vulnerable families living in Chaffee County and their pets in need. In 2024:
254 local cats and dogs received financial assistance with reduced or no-cost spay/neuters through our community assistance spay/neuter program
786 owned pets in our community were fed through our free Pet Food & Limited Supply Pantry
In partnership with Chaffee County Hospitality, 42 nights of warm respite for unsheltered individuals and their 17 pets during freezing winter nights were provided through our Shelter Together Program
In partnership with Chaffee County Community Foundation, 22 beloved community pets received veterinary financial assistance through our Community Pet Fund
And so much more — all because of you.
Every Gift Matters
Together, we can build a more humane community: one where fewer pets are born into neglect and homelessness, where pet owners are empowered during times of crisis, and where every animal is wanted, protected, and loved.
Check out our 2024 Annual Report to read more about the impactful work we accomplish in Chaffee County, thanks to animal-loving people like you who have invested in AVHS in support of the animals who need us the most.
Your support makes our work of helping the animals both at the shelter and through our community programs possible!
To ensure the welfare of companion animals through compassion and care.
Our Vision:
A safe and humane world for all companion animals.
Our Key Values:
Compassion for the animals and people we serve.
Leadership that inspires hope and kindness through education and example.
Kindness towards people and pets that find themselves in difficult situations.
Transparency regarding the work we do.
In the early 1990s Buena Vista, Colorado had only The Shed, which was overseen by law enforcement. It consisted of unheated, short-stay kennels for stray dogs. Dogs sweltered in the heat of summer and water bowls froze in winter. No services were available for cats. A group of concerned citizens decided it was time for a change. In 1991, founding members established Ark-Valley Humane Society (AVHS) as a nonprofit organization to humanely care for stray and unwanted pets in northern Chaffee County. By 1995, the AVHS shelter had opened its doors in Buena Vista. Soon, hundreds of dogs and cats each year were cared for by staff and volunteers until loving homes were found for them.
Organization name
Ark-Valley Humane Society, Inc
other names
AVHS
1991
Tax id (EIN)
84-1161648
Category
Animal-Related
Organization Size
Large Organization
Address
701 Gregg DriveMailing
PO Box 1335Chaffee County, CO, US