Since 1893, the Guelph Humane Society (GHS) has grown alongside the communities of Guelph and Wellington County.
What began with a commitment to protect animals has evolved into an organization that supports animals and people throughout the lives they share. Generations of residents? across our community have helped shape this work.
While the needs of our community and our understanding of animal welfare continue to evolve, our commitment remains clear: to bring hope, care and compassion to animals and the people who care for them.
More Than a Shelter
GHS provides care and shelter to thousands of animals each year—from dogs, cats and small animals to farm animals and wildlife.
Our work also reaches beyond the walls of our shelter. We reunite lost pets with their families, prepare animals for adoption, respond when animals are sick, injured or in distress and help people access support during difficult circumstances.
Through humane education, youth programs and community outreach, we help our community build knowledge, confidence and compassion in their relationships with animals.
A Home Designed for Animals and Community
In March 2021, GHS moved into our 8,000-square-foot home at 190 Hanlon Creek Boulevard in the south end of Guelph.
Built through years of planning and community support, the facility reflects a broader vision of animal welfare. It provides space for animal care, veterinary services, adoption, education and community programs while giving GHS greater capacity to respond to changing needs.
Today, it serves as a community animal centre where animals receive care, people find support and new relationships begin.
Powered by Our Community
Our staff bring knowledge, skill and dedication to their work. Volunteers and foster families contribute their time, experience and care. Adopters welcome animals into their lives, while donors and community partners help create programs, services and new possibilities.
Together, this community helps GHS respond to animals and people with compassion, strengthen the human–animal bond and advance animal welfare.
How GHS Is Governed and Supported
GHS is a registered charity governed by a volunteer Board of Directors. The Executive Director and staff are responsible for the organization’s day-to-day leadership and operations.
GHS provides animal services under agreements with the City of Guelph, Township of Centre Wellington and Township of Guelph/Eramosa. These agreements fund specific services GHS delivers on behalf of those municipalities.
As a charity, GHS relies on donations, grants, program revenue and community partnerships to support the broader scope of our work. Donations are essential to providing animal care, veterinary services, education, community programs and support for animals and people facing difficult circumstances.
GHS’s charitable registration number is 119236305RR0001.
What Guides Us
Our Vision
A compassionate world where all animals are valued and respected.
Our Mission
Advancing the welfare of animals through care, education, community engagement and relationships.
Our Values
- Compassion
- Leadership
- Integrity and Transparency
- Collaboration
These commitments guide how we care for animals, support people, work with our community and plan for the future.
Be Part of What Comes Next
Our story continues through every animal cared for, every family supported and every person who chooses to get involved.
Whether you adopt, foster, volunteer, donate, learn or share what you know with others, you can help build a more compassionate future for animals in our community.
