Dumb Friends League

The Dumb Friends League is a leading community-based animal welfare organization in the U.S. and a national model in Socially Conscious Sheltering.

Each day, vulnerable pets and horses come to our doors in need of warm shelter, loving care, and relief from their pain and suffering. With your generous support, we cared for more than 44,000 animals at our five Colorado centers in the last fiscal year alone, including 21,098 homeless pets at our three shelters, 23,533 pets through our subsidized community veterinary services, and 272 horses at our Harmony Equine Center™. On behalf of all of us at the League, thank you for making a difference for so many pets and people in our shared community.

Impact

“There’s no greater reward than the love in their eyes.”

-Kaitlyn, Jaxon's adopter

At the League, we feel fortunate to help animals heal and find their new beginnings. While each animal who arrives at our shelters has a different story, all are waiting to meet someone who will love and honor them for exactly who they are.

Jaxon, an 80-pound spotted dog with a heart of gold, has always had a lot to say. When he first arrived at the League last October, our Behavior Care team knew his needs were many. Because of his anxiety, body sensitivity, high energy, and extremely vocal nature, he would need extra support in the shelter, not to mention an adopter who could give him grace and manage his stress when it got the best of him. Like all animals, having outlets for social play, physical activity, and mental stimulation was a must. But what Jaxon needed most was a loving person and a reliable place to call home.

After nearly three long months of dedicated behavioral support in our care, that person finally came. Kaitlyn, a loyal League adopter, was considering adding another dog to her family when she fell in love with Jaxon’s photo online. The following snowy day, when many Denverites tried their best to stay put and stay cozy, Kaitlyn made the long trek to the League to meet him. Their instant connection, combined with a successful visit with her resident dog, was everything our staff and volunteers had hoped for. Even more, it was exactly what Jaxon needed.

Now, nearly one year later, Kaitlyn can’t imagine life without exuberant and lovable Jaxon by her side. As the newest member of her pack, Jaxon has even helped his new canine pal make similar strides in her own healing journey. And while Jaxon may always exhibit anxious and high-energy behaviors, Kaitlyn gives him the grace and support he has long deserved. To her, this is who he is and who she loves – and she welcomes his traits and personality with open arms. “[Dogs are] doing the best they can with what they’ve been given,” she said. “There’s no greater reward than the love in their eyes.”

Your compassion and generosity help transform the lives of deserving animals like Jaxon and their families. Support our vital work by donating to the Dumb Friends League today.