About Us Our Mission & History
The Delaware Valley Humane Society, Inc is a nonprofit organization that provides Shelter care in the most humane and compassionate way possible with a focus on health, care and adoption of homeless cats and dogs to desirable homes.
Welcome to the Delaware Valley Humane Society
A No-Kill Shelter Providing a Safe Haven Since 1964
DVHS is a 501c3 nonprofit organization providing emergency housing for pets. We care for animals who are lost, abandoned, or surrendered due to life-changing events or financial difficulties. We provide temporary housing, food, and medical treatment for up to 35 dogs and 70 cats at a time, finding new, permanent homes for approximately 200 animals each year. Since 2005, we have been a proud NO-KILL facility.
Our Guiding Principle
Our #1 concern is not how many animals we can get OUT, but rather getting the right pet into the right home. A home that will last the rest of that pet’s life.
1964 - 1979: Our Founding
The Delaware Valley Humane Society was organized in 1964 and received its charter in March of 1965. In 1979, a large addition was made to the original building.
1981 - 1994: Program Growth
In 1981, we began a spay-neuter program. A crematorium was installed in 1985, and in 1994, Terry’s Red Barn was purchased to conduct fund-raisers.
1998 - 2005: A No-Kill Commitment
A large remodeling project was completed in 1998, followed by a new cat room/isolation area in 2003. In 2005, we proudly became a NO-KILL facility.
2012 - 2013: Facility Improvements
A new bridge over the creek and an outdoor play pen were added in 2012. In 2013, “Paws” was remodeled, a van was purchased, and we began participating in a vet program at Delhi College. Roofs and fencing were also replaced.
2015 - 2016: Modernization
We received a grant to install solar panels in 2015. In 2016, a new Meet and Greet Room was generously donated by a local anonymous supporter.
Beyond adoption, DVHS is committed to animal welfare in our community. We have operated a spay/neuter program since 1981 to promote responsible pet ownership. We also partner with local veterinarians and participate in vet programs with Delhi College to ensure our animals receive the best care.
Our Mission
The Delaware Valley Humane Society, Inc is a nonprofit organization that provides Shelter care in the most humane and compassionate way possible with a focus on health, care and adoption of homeless cats and dogs to desirable homes.
Our Commitment
To be part of the no-kill movement where each and every animal in our care receives the attention and care required to ensure the greatest opportunity to find a home.
Our Values
We believe that animals rely on us and that doing nothing is not an option. We strive to be their voice, to help people and animals in need, and to listen without judgment. To be human is to be humane.
Our Community
We depend on our community of supporters and volunteers for everything from dog walking and cat socialization to fundraising events and shelter operations. Your support makes our work possible.
Support Our Mission and Save a Life
As a 501c3 nonprofit, no-kill shelter, we rely on the generosity of our community to provide essential food, shelter, and medical care to the ~200 animals we rescue every year. Your contribution directly funds their second chance.
Our Adoption Process: Making
the Perfect Match
Our #1 concern is finding the right home for every pet. Our process is designed to ensure a successful, lifelong match for both you and your new companion. It involves an application, reference checks, and an interview to get to know you. In return, we provide you with a new best friend who is vaccinated, spayed/neutered, and behavior-assessed, plus a voucher for a free vet exam to get you started.
To begin, applicants must be 21 or older and provide personal references, a vet reference, and landlord approval if renting. For the safety and well-being of our dogs, we do not allow walk-throughs. Instead, we schedule dedicated meet-and-greet appointments for approved adopters to ensure a calm, positive introduction. We are committed to setting you up for success and even offer a free consultation class with our K9 behaviorist.
Shelter Hours
Tuesday - Sunday: 11:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
Location (Mailing):
PO Box 182, Sidney,
NY 13838
NY 13838
Location (GPS):
Contact Us:
Phone: (607) 563-7780
The shelter is closed on Mondays.