If I could rate them lower I would. The director is a money hungry narcissist who demands $100,000 a year while she allows her staff to neglect and abuse animals. They have turned their back on the community and should be shut down.
Review from Guidestar
We adopted our first cat from OPHS in 2011 and I signed up as a foster volunteer shortly after. Although there is room to improve in the area of the foster program, I have been treated well by staff members, and enjoy mutual trust. The picture shows one of numerous litters of feral kittens "graduating" foster care, tame enough for pet adoption.
I’d like to thank OPHS staff for all their hard work and dedication. We are so thankful for our newest addition to the family Ella. My good friend Megan who volunteers at the shelter, sent me a photo of Ella. She gave me details about Ella’s background and personality. A few days later, my boyfriend and I drove from Tacoma to do a meet and greet. While at the shelter, we interacted with several staff members. You could just tell how much effort and compassion was poured into helping all the animals.
The shelter also helped us prepare for Ella’s homecoming. We were given donated items and had the cost of her spayed procedure covered. The support didn’t stop there. I received a follow up email that asked how Ella adjusted to her new home. We were also encouraged to reach out with any questions. OPHS staff, donations, and funding have made it possible for animals like Ella to have a happy ending. – Wendy M.
We partner with the Humane Society to help with their adoptions and foster dogs for them. We are a non profit women owned rescue farm and they r a vital resource and partner. We work events and fairs when we can as well. They are amazing and get alot of animals adopted and to their forever homes! Nicole is beyond helpful and her compassion for the animals is immense!
We will be forever grateful for the people who brought 2 additional amazing kiddos into our lives.
Many thank you's for not giving up on the one's that so many places would have.
My friend Aiden who is autistic has been volunteering at the shelter for quite some time now and I would like to acknowledge the facility and the people inside of this organization.
Aiden for sure has some struggles but since volunteering her confidence in herself as well as dealing with others has skyrocketed. Her ability to learn and do tasks has greatly improved as well. The people all love her and work with her abilities which is what Aiden needs to reach her full potential. I am forever grateful for the shelter for seeing the light and growth in Aiden and giving her an opportunity to learn, grown, and become part of the community even with her own limitations. 5/5 for Olympic Peninsula Humane Society!
I first connected with the Humane Society when looking to adopt a dog. I came away with so much more.
I have wanted a dog for as long as I can remember. Unfortunately with my job, having a pet is not easy. The staff at OPHS were attentive to my situation and supportive. I was able to foster a dog for a few months. Through that experience I got to know the staff better, and they discovered I am a runner. At their suggestion I started taking the high energy dogs on trail runs. I love it. It gives me the reward of connecting with dogs that I had been seeking, and I get to take great joy in bringing exercise, exploration and stimulation to their day.
I cannot thank the OPHS staff enough for their support from the time I first filled out an adoption application to now as a volunteer. I also want to recognize just how hard they work to get to know and enrich the lives of each of the dogs in their care, and how dedicated they are to finding the dogs good homes.
We’re fostering a geriatric dog from Peninsula Humane Society and they’ve been all around amazing. They’ve been extremely helpful and have aided us with food, prescription medications and even performed a much needed surgery that Barney required. PHS needs a lot of support from the community - they so deserve it! We are so happy that we can participate in their foster program.
I met my current dog when an OPHS volunteer brought her to the veterinary clinic I work at for chest x rays after she was diagnosed with mammary cancer. I took her into foster care and then after her masectomy adopted her. I'm very grateful to the humane society for giving her a second chance, as many shelters would not invest that level of care into a special needs dog. She is an angel and has healed a hole in my heart that has been there since my last dog passed away. For that I cannot thank OPHS enough.
We have always been a one dog family. Then, we were told about a white shepherd at OPHS. We drove from 2 hours away. We brought our Pyrenees and the OPHS staff let us play in the yard so the two pups could meet. It was love at first sight, both for our pup and us! Having two dogs brings an added layer of joy to the home because we know our dogs are companions and friends. I appreciate that they asked us questions to help narrow down the best options for our family. We brought our little fellow home, knowing he played well with other dogs and was friendly to cats. Knowing the staff vets the animals to establish personalities and needs gave us the confidence to know that our little guy was going to be a great fit -- and he is.
3 months ago we adopted our sweet boy Jake from OPHS. We were so happy with the whole experience! The office staff, the pet guardians and all involved were wonderful. Jake was only about 8 months old at time of adoption but he had clearly been socialized a bit. Jake came to us as a happy, healthy pup and we adore him and OPHS!
I love fostering with OPHS! My husband and I began fostering dogs with the Olympic Peninsula Humane Society earlier this year and it has been such a WONDERFUL experience.
The staff are knowledgeable about their dogs, easy to work with, and it's clear they go above and beyond for all the animals in their care (and the foster families!). They make sure each foster dog gets along well with our dog beforehand, check-in to make sure things are going well, provide support if needed, and always seem to match our foster with the perfect forever family.
I've been a dog-walker and dog foster mom at OPHS for almost a year. With the number of dogs coming through the shelter, the volunteer dog-walkers are a critical part of the process. It's almost impossible for staff alone to handle all the cleaning, feeding, watering, etc. and spend important time with the dogs exercising and socializing them. What's even better is when people open their homes to a dog as foster parents, allowing them to decompress from the stress of the shelter and helping with their training on a daily basis. My foster dog, Lollie, has been at the shelter for over a year now. She was losing weight and starting to lose interest in her surroundings when I decided to foster her. She immediately settled into her new situation and is, for the most part, a great dog. Unfortunately, she's a bit older, has a strong prey drive, and is very dog-selective which makes her harder to place. But she's made great strides while in my house, and I'm still hoping that someone will appreciate her as she is and offer her a loving, long-term home!
I love what OPHS has done for my life, plus the lives of so many abandoned, abused and forgotten animals on the Olympic Peninsula and the people with love to give .
I have had a dog or two my entire life but have had a bad run of luck the past few years. Had to put two old dogs down and then last spring my one and a half year old died from a brain tumor. I was heartbroken ,depressed and not wanting to go through pain again. But then I saw OPHS was having an adoption event at Tractor Supply so I dropped by just to look... there was lots of activity people with their new best friends and dogs looking for attention, but there she was by herself in the last kennel just sitting , wagging her tail like she was waiting for me . So I asked to hold her and one kiss later I was in love but still concerned that I wasn't ready. Then Nicole Miller came up to me and said that I was holding her special princess but ready for her forever home. So I explained my situation to her and she suggested fostering Kyoko for a couple of weeks or more and that would relieve the stress of commitment. So that's what I did after failing to talk myself out of it. Of course I also failed at being a foster because I adopted Kyoko for life and fills my world with joy every day.
Nicole and so many others at OPHS have been there for all my questions and concerns through-out the process. They saved Kyoko and so many others from awful conditions ,misery and death with hard work and caring hearts. I my heart is full again... thank you so much ❤️
Hailey and the Olympic Peninsula Humane Society are truly amazing. They stepped in and assisted a family member who was overwhelmed after his mastif had a litter of 10 pups. He wasn’t physically or emotionally in a position to handle the stress of raising these pups and by the time they were ready to adopt he struggled to find homes for them. When Haley heard his story she stepped up and recruited fosters for all of them. She assisted in transporting them to the center and kept the family in the loop as all the pups found their forever homes. She didn’t stop there though, she was able to find resources to ensure that Mama got spayed.
Since receiving their support I have been following them and am so impressed with the dedication and commitment to the community. Truly an amazing group.
I would like highlight this amazing organization for their dedication to all animals. From the staff and volunteers to the fosters and adopters… We are all serving the same purpose, the completely serve and dedicate our lives to these animals.
I had a foster dog earlier this year named Sasha and boy was she a whirlwind of spunk and personality.
I was very pleased that OPHS gave me the opportunity of housing this wonderful gem as she recovered from surgery after she had tumors removed from her tummy.
Sasha is a wonderful friend that deserves nothing but the best in life and that was made possible through OPHS.
When she got adopted it was a very sad day for not only myself but my household as a whole. We do know that she is now in her forever home but we still miss her deeply and thank OPHS for granting us the opportunity to spend the time with her before she found her way home.
OPHS has the most caring people working there! They are all very friendly, helpful and you can tell they love the animals that are in their care❤️
I recently had it on my heart to adopt again after I had to have my dog put down a year ago. Megan came to my work and showed me some pups. Unfortunately for me, those ones got adopted before I could get there (great for the pups!). A few days later she sent me another photo of a litter of 9 African Mastiff/Malamute mix puppies! Instantly in love my daughter and I went and checked them out, fell in love and brought our boy home! We have been fostering him to see if he was a good fit, something I didn’t know you could do, but they encouraged to make sure we, as well as him, would be best suited. He’s been neutered, healed and today is the day we get to go back and adopt our Indie!! Never did I ever see myself adopting a big dog, but he is the best and I’m so glad we gave him a chance because I couldn’t imagine not having him now. We love OPHS and I have since encouraged all my family and friends to adopt from and support them!
We’ve always adopted from shelters, so not long after our last cat passed, we found ourselves at OPHS. We were quickly chosen by Boo & Kitts, 3 yr old siblings. The facility has since been replaced by Kitty City, but even then it was clean & well cared for. The people were friendly & knowledgeable, & the adoption process went smoothly. We’re so grateful for all the hard work OPHS does. It’s a time consuming & sometimes thankless job, but they’re saving lives & finding forever homes! And we love our fur babies!
As President of the Board at OPHS, I've had the privilege and opportunity to work with staff, volunteers, fosters, clients, the general public, donors and other board members so I am very well acquainted with the day-to-day operations at the shelter. The dedicated staff work tirelessly and professionally with animals and their humans in all kinds of situations that are at times stressful and unrewarding. It is so touching to watch the volunteers, including foster families, as they care for the animals with countless donated hours. OPHS is able to offer high quality care for the animals because of the generous donations of time and money from community members. When it comes to loving animals, we are one big happy family.
Previous Stories
OPHS is an amazing place for animals to stay while waiting to go to their forever homes. The employees care for their "guests" as if they are their own. The Bark House has heated floors in the indoor/outdoor kennels. The property has walking trails and an outdoor fenced in play yard for the dogs. Kitty City has nice large enclosures for the cats and kittens. The staff work hard to find the perfect placement for each animal.
Marti Oldham
This place is so great. I am a volunteer there and am treated with kindness and respect. The paid help give everything they have to care for the animals to get them adopted. I think the facility is run very well. I volunteer at the dog house. Everyone knows the dogs names and personalities. Every dog is shown love and care.
Please visit and consider adopting a dog.
So we have had our four legged furry monster for almost a year now...and WE ARE IN LOVE!!! His new name is Jaws...lol yes like the shark . We absolutely adore him and wouldn't swap, change or alter him in anyway. When we first brought him home there were alot of.....messes around the house we had to clean up. He was scared of alot of things. He no longer has any of these problems(minus the occasional "I'm playing with mom and dad and am so excited and.....oooo I'm peeing" kind of accidents) He has to be involved in everything we do. A few of his favorite things to do is Laundry...yes laundry and painting. He is a freight train of love. When he comes in from being outside you MUST brace yourself as he comes in like a wrecking ball of love. Obviously we have a few things to work on but he gets a new toy every week (seeing as though he destroys EVERY TOY in less than 24 hrs KONG IS DESTRUCTIBLE!!!) and sleeps on the couch. Hes a "plopper". He will see you on the couch, chair or bed and come up and plop on top of you all his dead weight, AND WILL NOT move. However he has also been known to fall off the couch or bed yes you read that correctly, and/or miss the couch completely when he goes to jump up and face plant into the front of it. He falls asleep in less than 60 seconds when he closes his eyes and LOVES other dogs!!! He has filled out and became a BIG boy. We absolutely adore him! He's just a big doofus. As time has gone on we have noticed difficult things to see in such a sweet dog. He was absolutely terrified of the hose. Just the other day for the first time he drank from the hosehelpfully!!!!
Olympic peninsula humane society was unbelievably helpfull!!!!
I went to the humane society last Sept to try to find my daughter a rescue kitty. Come to find out I was unaware of 2 things,
1. The Humane society is by appointment only.
2. I was at the wrong campus for kitties.
Upon discovery of these two things I heard 1 thing.
A pup, obviously young was whining and barking in an outdoor crate. I had to go see him.
I was granted permission so I went over to see the cutest baby he was so sweet and had the happiest smile.
I was at a point in my life where I could have a dog, my kids are too old to love on and cuddle and I needed something. I asked if he was up for adoption.
I was approved and took my new baby to the pet store to buy him everything he sniffed.
I took my baby boy home... Now a real name..... My puppy son.
His name: Osborn Thomas Walsh.
A month after getting him we moved my step daughter to Arizona and my baby dog came with. He traveled across 5 states stealing hearts at every stop.
Ozzy is now 13 months old and has a "sister" Billie Blu that is his absolute bestest friend. They are so spoiled and so loved.
Ozzy and Billie saved me. I suffer from fibromyalgia, anxiety and depression. They lift my spirits and stay by my side on bad days. Without them I would be lost.
Just goes to show you never know what is around the corner. I found Ozzy looking for a cat and I ended up with more than I expected. I am so greatful
Thank you Olympic Peninsula Humane Society for all you do.
We finally did get a rescue kitty for my daughter. She is the sweetest little gal. She is an all black DSH, we named her Midnight Rayne. My home is full of pet hair sloppy kisses and so much love.
The OPHS did a magnificent job matching us with our newest family member . The process was easy yet thorough and they have kept in touch to ensure the whole process is going well and that he was a good match with our other dog . We are immensely grateful to the staff and volunteers for their caring and professionalism . We love our new dog a whole bunch ❤️ (He would only sleep in front of the front door at night so we finally just moved his beds there !)
I am a new homeowner and I was hoping for a companion as well as a protector. When I first saw Annabelle on the O.P.H.S website, I fell completely in love. She is beautiful! I haven't really owned a dog by myself before so I felt very unqualified but I new I could provide a good home and the ability to care for a friend in need. The application process really put in perspective why I wanted a dog and what caring for her would look like.
Bella is 100 percent Diva. She is also quite the comedian. She is an extremely fierce protector and trusts nobody. There really aren't any dull moments. She is, hands down, the Greatest companion animal ever.
Together, we are learning each other and our bond grows daily. Although it was difficult in the beginning, she trusts that I will also protect and care for her. I am so happy to have her and feel lucky she loves me. She is the perfict gift and I wouldn't trade her for anything!
The Olympic Peninsula Humane Society is an amazing establishment to work with. They continue to reach out to offer guidance and solutions for all our growing pains, as well as, just checking in to hear about our progress. I am blessed to be a part of their fur baby adopters family.
OPHS is such an incredible organization with staff and volunteers who radiate kindness and dedication. I have had two success stories with this lovely location and can't say enough good things about them.
I have found two soulful hound boys at different chapters at OPHS who have been the perfect co-pilots to my life of roadtrips and outdoor adventures. The tenderness of the staff with these beautiful hound boys, and the incredible aftercare and services have been phenomenal.
I now live on the Oregon Coast, yet that did not stop me from driving several hours north to support this humane society because of the incredible gifts they have brought into my life.
While one hound is no longer with us, I am grateful daily for the check ins, support through training offerings, and follow up that has been provided with my newest boy, Watson.
We have much life to be living in our ocean backyard and we are happy to be doing it to together, and send our greatest wishes of thanks to OPHS.
What started out as a time filler and desire to give back to the community, has turned into an all consuming passion of working with, and for, shelter dogs. I’ve always loved dogs, but over the last 7 months while working with OPHS, I have observed a hardworking and dedicated team of staff and volunteers giving their best efforts in order to find forever homes for dogs in their care.
Dogs that are surrendered often show signs of fear, mistrust, and pain in their pleading eyes. Staff and volunteers give consistent and patient love, care, and socialization. Slowly a transformation occurs and confidence and hope begin to emerge. One of the hurdles is cleared, and those involved move on to the next.
Behavioral issues of dogs are dealt with individually with positive rewards and encouragement. The dogs make progress in order to become much more adoptable, and less apt to bring issues to their potential new homes. An example of behavioral change in a dog is Maggie.
Maggie, a 6 year old large Mastiff, sat patiently waiting in her run for someone to notice her and take her out. With bounding enthusiasm, immense strength, and no leash manners, I survived my first half hour of being pulled around the property. Realizing that she had little chance for adoption without behavior modification, I began trying more frequent and longer walks with experiences at alternate locations. The fear of her overpowering me due to a distraction continually grew, but so did our bond.
She began bouncing with excitement each time she heard my voice. Watching YouTube training videos, I learned techniques using a slip lead and treats. She was soon loose lead walking next to me quite engaged, with me feeling like a proud parent.
It was becoming harder on both of us each time I left, and the staff recognized her evident depression. A wonderful foster home was found for her, and it was not long before I was missing Maggie. I reached out to the foster and we arranged a visit. Maggie was so excited to see me and the feeling was mutual. I offered her foster mom a demo on using a slip lead, and also gave her information on how to use a gentle leader (as shown to me by OPHS staff).
During a second visit, Maggie’s foster encouraged me to walk her using the gentle leader that she had tried, and thanked me for introducing it to her. Maggie followed so easily, with absolutely no pulling! Maggie is happily residing with her foster and able to walk safely about the neighborhood. I look forward to our next visit!
As a volunteer, I have assumed the task of following up on dog adoptions in order to address any questions or concerns regarding adopted dogs. New dog owners often share their appreciation for the support, interest, and assistance they are offered, both before and after the adoption experience. New owners are so often excited to share about their new family member, and I have received many heartwarming photos of dogs thriving in their new homes.
Connecting with fellow volunteers who have become adopters as a result of working and bonding with a dog is especially rewarding.
I was asked by another volunteer recently if I worked at the shelter due to the fact that I’m always there. That comment is a testament to how much I enjoy the environment, people, and helping dogs. I walk the dogs and love on them as well, having gotten quite attached to many. Experiencing the journeys with the dogs, learning from and bonding with staff members, and meeting fellow volunteers are all part of the reason I work with OPHS.
OPHS goes above and beyond to seek new ways to help dogs attain a successful second chance. I am proud to be associated with this organization and able to share in its heartwarming and fulfilling experiences.
Dee Thomas
Volunteer
My beautiful and loving kitty Molly has been with me since May. She had been surrendered to OPHS because she didn't get along with the other cat in the home. After she was surrendered, she was adopted once and quickly returned because she spent the entire week in her new home hiding under the bed.
When Molly got to my house she quickly made her way underneath my bed, where she stayed for most of the day. Determined to make her love me, I layed on the ground next to the bed. I talked to her, blinked at her, but I made sure she knew she was safe and I didn't try to get her out. She slowly inched closer to the edge of the bed throughout the day and by night, she was venturing.... very slowly out.. and then back under. Then she ran to the closet in the bathroom and found a new hiding spot.
I spent some time sitting in the bathroom with her and eventually she came out and let me pet her. I remember feeling so incredibly grateful that this scared little kitty was finally trusting me. It took her about 4 days to feel fully comfortable moving around her new home.
Today, she is the queen of our little apartment. Her new favorite spot is up on top of the cabinets and she scares me a little every time she jumps down, even through I know she's got it.
I am so grateful to OPHS for finding forever homes for animals that need love and for giving me my little best friend, that I couldn't imagine life without.
On July 17th, 2022 our awesome kids put together a lemonade stand to help support our local Humane Society. We recently had such wonderful experience adopting a pet from OPHS last year and knew raising donations for this local shelter would only go to a great cause. At the end of the day the kids raised close to $200 in donations!
The following weekend we shopped at our local Walmart using our donations to pick out supplies for OPHS. We are so thankful to have such a wonderful animal shelter looking after all the fur babies in our community that are in need of a home. This was the first lemonade stand our kids held to raise donations for OPHS and it won't be the last!
When my friend showed me the pictures on the advertisement of Royal the Airedale, we both commented how similar he looked to Annie, the Airedale my husband and I rescued almost a year ago. After several weeks of discussion and no one stepping up to adopt him, we decided to submit an application and see if we were a match. Because of our circumstances and prior Airedale experience we were exactly the home they were looking for. Only problem, we live in northern California and Royal was 2 states away. With the price of fuel going up daily it still wasn't looking doable. My friend who spotted him in the first place saved the day and away we went in his Prius. Long trip straight up and back with many adventures and lots of laughs, sweet Royal has become a much loved member of our pack. My dog trainer is pleased with his progress, he's learning to trust men, but he's my velcro dog and that's that. Olympic Peninsula Humane Society was wonderful to work with, let us arrive before opening time because they knew we had a long way to return home. They were completely honest with me over the phone regarding what to expect when we met him, so there was no disappointment at his fearful reactions. My poor sweet boy been through some unknown trauma but time and love are erasing his fear gradually....and treats. Thank you to Olympic Peninsula Humane Society for trusting us to be the forever family for Royal the Airedale. We have full hearts and a crazy home!
Fourteen years ago I walked into the Olympic Peninsula Humane Society looking for a cat that needed a foster home. As I passed the cages looking in each one, most of the cats ignored me or shrank back in fear. In one cage there was a sweet faced white and tabby cat with seven little babies. As I looked into her beautiful green eyes she reached her paw out through the bars to me asking for help. Needless to say she and the babies went home with me. I hated to take them back when they were old enough for their forever homes. Leaving mom and them was hearbreaking. When I returned to the car my husband saw my tears and said go get her. I returned and adopted mom. Her name is Tabby Patch (aka Mama Kitty). My grandson showed her as a 4-H project and she took Champion at State Fair in the longhaired pet devision. Since I lost my husband she has been my comfort and joy.
I had just moved into a home with my fiance in January 2006, but it wasn't a home without a cat. We went to Olympia Peninsula Humane Society and found who became our sweet Chloe. She was with us through many moves, the wedding, bring two children home, a few dogs, and rescuing another cat. She was my son's very best friend. She gave us 15 years of so much joy and love and purrs and cuddles. Thank you OPHS for bringing my soul cat into our lives. She sadly passed away October 21. Not a day goes by we don't talk or think about her.
After Chloe's passing we adopted our new kitten, Bean. He's helped to heal our hearts.
We can't thank OPHS enough for all the furry feline love they have brought into our lives!
When one of my senior kitties passed away it left my remaining senior, Oliver, very sad. I hadn't planned on adopting another for a while but had to, as Oliver was so unhappy being an only cat. This was during Covid when it was one visitor at a time, by appointment - I started watching their page, saw 2 cats I was interested in and submitted my application. The staff was excellent with communicating and let me meet both kitties to decide if one would fit. I choose Simon, a young long haired character who loves Oliver (and Oliver loves him back). We all couldn't be happier with the decision to adopt from the Olympic Peninsula Humane Society and would do it again without hesitation.
12 years ago, we were looking to add to our family of 5 and found a perfect match at OPHS. Bailey was the sweetest puppy in the litter, and instantly bonded with us. Our three boys have grown up with her as a friend and protector, and I can't imagine our life without her now.
For my 16th birthday, I wanted nothing more than a female black cat. My mom came home with a little black kitten from OPHS and I was ecstatic. I named her Miss Luna. While at OPHS, her mother’s milk dried up, so the staff had to bottle feed her and carry her around like a human baby…. 16 years later she is still my best friend and loves to be carried around like a baby by everyone. She is so sweet, quirky and loves people. I deal with severe depression and anxiety and she has always been the one to support me with kisses, cuddles and loud purring. I’m so thankful to have had her the last 16 years. Thank you to OPHS for saving my best companion.
Three years ago our family decided we would like to rescue a kitty. I had been wanting to adopt an Indoor/outdoor cat that was good with children for some time. We saw Sweet Pea was featured on a post from OPHS. She was the only kitty that fit our criteria plus she was known to be a good mouser. I knew when I saw her cute but grumpy expression she was the one for us. My 3 yr old and I drove out to meet her and she was such a sweet little cat. We found out she had been there about 1 year coming from an outdoor only cat situation. After learning that we knew we had to bring her home. She was a senior cat special, our little "Pea" was only 10$. Pea was a scared and nervous girl for the first few months and spend the majority of her time hiding. Once she was comfortable with our family , about 3 months later, we started letting her outdoor during the day. This totally changed her cattitude. Being allowed access outside somehow strengthened our bond, and she has been such a sweet and lovey lady. Nowadays, she is the supreme guardian and protector of our families yard and garden area. She comes in and out as she pleases and loves getting snuggles/pet by all members of the family. All in all a wonderful cat and a great addition to our family.
I had recently moved out of my parents house and was lonely. It was the first time in my life not having a pet. I decided I was going to adopt a cat and went to OPHS. I saw they had a blind cat named “Rugby” and met him and fell in love. When I went to take him home, they told me all the stories about him and how they will miss him. I could tell them truly love and care for the animals there. “Rugby” is now named Kimchi and he’s my best friend. He greets everyone at the door and will bug them until they give them scratches.
On top of everything else…. My beloved old dog died at the beginning of the pandemic. My heart was broken. Seeing an ad from the OLympic Peninsula Humane Societyfor foster parents, I thought “ why not?” I wasn’t ready for another dog yet but was lonesome in isolation. When I arrived at the OPHS, they brought out the saddest creature I had ever seen. She was covered in sores, had lost half her hair, every rib showed, and I’d never seen anything like it. She jumped right in my car, and 3 days later we decided to make it formal. Franny, you are a wonderful dog and I love you so much. OPHS, thank you for saving this amazing dog and bringing her into my life. She has been a joy and a comfort to me, and the best friend a person could ask for. The Olympic Peninsula Humane Society saved an old dog near death, and she saved me from sorrow and loneliness. Thank you!
Pics are before and after.
Our family is thankful that Olympic Peninsula Humane Society featured adoptable cats at a local pet store. We stopped by the store to look and left with cats that had been rescued by OPHS. Given the level of care provided by OPHS, the adoption fees were reasonable, yet also ensured that a potential adopter was not making a spur of the moment emotional decision. In addition to the care provided by OPHS, the adoption included a complimentary first veterinary visit. Thank you, OPHS!
I adopted two sweet kittens in November of 2021. Now I have the best, crazy cat teenagers! Coconut and Mango are sister kitties. The staff in the kitty room was so kind and patient while I played with all the kitters. I had such a hard time deciding. They offered gentle advice, help and a lot of support and laughter. I will support this terrific organization in the future
We adopted a chocolate lab, Axel a few years back. He is amazing! We looked around and didn't want to go out of WA and when we saw him, we had to check him out. He loves our boys, his treats and is a character! He received training while there! We can't imagine not having this guy! Thank you!!!
In 2014 I had a life-threatening (and almost life-ending) experience. When I was at home recovering, I made the happy mistake of mentioning that I'd love to have a kitten but the kitten was likely to outlive me and that wouldn't be a happy ending. My husband was upset with my thinking and promptly went to OPHS and picked out a polydactyl kitten (I love polys), brought it home and dared me to open the carrier :-).
Inside was the sweetest, fluffiest, mostest toesies kitten I had ever seen. We bonded immediately.
Luna is my velcro recovery kitty.
8 years later, going strong!
Thank you OPHS for being a no-kill, love them all shelter!
Apparently one of neighbors traps cats and got our cat. He was missing for a few days and we called the humane society. Although he had not been listed yet, they had him and we were reunited! We appreciate the care they took of our cat until we found him there.
We adopted Jasper and Marshall in December of 2021 from OPHS. What an amazing 8 months it’s been with these sweet boys.
After losing our 2 senior dogs very close together we were all heartbroken and began searching their website to find the perfect dog to help us heal. Little did we know we would fall in love with not one, but 2!
The staff members who helped introduce us were so patient and helpful, giving us plenty of time to make sure that we were a good fit and that we knew what to expect after leaving. Rescue dogs can be a challenge not knowing their past but I felt very prepared to handle the transition with all the information they gave me.
Jasper was so timid and shy at first. He kept his distance from strangers (especially men) and liked to escape to his crate in new situations. I’m happy to say that he has gained so much confidence walking our neighborhood and meeting everyone that he is like a totally new dog. He politely greets strangers and is so gentle with kids.
Marshall was highly anxious and very difficult to handle on a leash when he first came home. With some advice from our vet and regular walks he had improved so much. He is eager to please and is very responsive to training.
These guys spend their days playing in the yard, hiking, going for car rides and having play dates with all their new dog friends. We cannot imagine life without them.
We are so thankful for OPHS for making sure these guys and so many others end up in the right homes. Our family is forever grateful!
-The Gorbett Family
My two best furry friends stayed at the temporary doggie hotel here before they found me. They did a good job making sure we were a good fit, and were good to work with. My second doggo from here had some special circumstances and they were very good at making sure we would be ok, which we are! When I’m ready to add wagging tail to the pack, I’ll be back!
Olympic Peninsula Humane Society made it possible for me to foster a kitten who turned into the best cat I ever had. They do amazing work for animals and are so important in our community.
We came in looking for a kitten, I had a certain breed in mind. But as we walked thru the different cages one baby reached out and grabbed my hair and that was it for us… he picked us… and who can argue with that… it’s been 10 years since we adopted our Vader. Even all the way back then Olympic Peninsula Humane Society was the perfect place to go, they were helpful and truly cared where these pets were being placed… They looked for forever families.
Nimbus (adopted 8/10/13, age 12) and Lucy (formerly Bell Pepper, adopted 8/10/15, age 7) have brought us such joy. OPHS volunteers introduced us and helped us through the process for adding these two to our family. They have become wonderful, furry siblings and we enjoy their companionship and love every day. Thank you, OPHS!
We adopted George, a 6 year old Great Pyrenees border collie from Olympic peninsula humane society in 2017. I fell in love with his fluffy face and sweet brown eyes from an online posting and filed an application to meet him. I got an email back a couple weeks later that he was adopted. We were heartbroken. Imagine my surprise when we went to the human society to meet dogs and I saw his name on the board! He’d been returned after 24 hours due to tummy problems. Poor baby. He went home with us that day. He is so gentle and loving with everyone (except he doesn’t like delivery drivers, at all). He just wants a lap to snuggle in and people to love. And he has found that in our family. Thanks to op humane society for bringing him to us.
OPHS graced us with the BEST cat we've ever had. She's such a wonderful addition to our family. Larkin is pure lap cat, 24/7/365!
After my Dixie dog died in 2018, I did not need or want any other dog.
There were other ways to get my “dog fix.” Dixie had come to me, in 2006, from the Olympic Peninsula Humane Society’s old shelter. Now I began volunteering at their new shelter, the Bark House. And I bought a dog for my grandsons.
Visits with my grand-puppy and volunteering at Bark House suited me. At home, I was content having cats—two in the house, another in the barn. My oldest kitty, Cricket, developed renal disease (a common cat malady), so adding a dog was out of the question, even if I wanted one, which I did not.
Socializing Bark House dogs to help them get adopted was fun, rewarding, and not at all tempting.
But one day last fall, when I made the rounds of the kennels to hand out treats, I had one treat left over.
“Did Sadie get one?” Carin asked.
“Who’s Sadie?” I replied.
Carin pointed me to what appeared to be an empty kennel. The dog in it had pushed the door closed, trapping herself outside. When I opened the door, a black lab mix puppy exploded in. Jaws snapped as she leapt wildly, strong teeth frantically grabbed my coat sleeve.
“No! No! No!” I ordered as I wrestled her down, thankful that she was small enough for me to handle. I gave her the treat and escaped.
After that, my weekly visits centered on telling Sadie she was a lady, a good dog, smart, pretty, the best.
She was young, energetic, athletic—all things I am not. I hoped an active dog lover would soon adopt her.
Someone did! But Sadie was back the next week, all chewed up. Sharing a home with three larger dogs had scared her, so she had foolishly attacked them.
Bark House staff moved her from one kennel to another, trying to find a placement that would help settle her down, but no kennel was right for Sadie.
Nearing a year old, Sadie had spent two-thirds her life in shelters and was earning a reputation as an aggressive, snappish, crazed, potentially dangerous, perhaps unadoptable dog. Who seemed fine with cats.
Still, she was much too lively to bring home to an ailing kitty. Then Cricket’s annual vet check showed her condition had stabilized. Perhaps I could have a dog.
Now, Sadie is not a border collie, so not the kind of dog I would choose—but she desperately needed to get out of the shelter.
Out of pity, I talked her situation over with my husband, Dale. In April, I signed a “foster” agreement and borrowed a dog crate, then needed help to forcibly place Sadie in the back seat of my car, where I had a tie-down ready.
The cats were not—are not—thrilled. But Sadie is.
Sadie runs and plays in the yard and “helps” me in the garden. She lays quietly when I’m doing computer work, and sleeps through the night in her crate—even when the cats demand breakfast much too early in the morning.
We walk every day—something Dale tried to get me to join him in doing for years. Sadie is exuberantly friendly when we encounter people—all of whom admire her, even when she doesn't “behave like a lady.” She is learning about life on the farm; delights in every opportunity to romp with my grand-puppy or a neighbor dog; and handled her first outing as a travel dog amazingly well.
I fostered Sadie to help her find a permanent home. And she did.
I do not need a dog, but Sadie needed a home. I am her lady.
I have been living in Sequim, WA. since 2018. At my previous residence I was a fur-foster mom and really wanted to continue helping in my new community.
Last year I joined the Board of Directors for OPHS and am so proud of what we have accomplished. We have opened a beautiful new facility, “Kitty City” (pictures attached), last month. To see this facility in completion is overwhelming and we now have been able to expand our surgical services. We also have a wonderful dog training program for our volunteers; an animal behaviorist to help correct problems that might originally have prevented or delayed an adoption. And, OPHS continues to look for ways to improve! Everyone involved with OPHS gives 100% of their time and skills and are truly inspirational. I am so blessed to have a part in it.
Yesterday I attended the Grand Opening of Kitty City. Usually, I am apprehensive
about seeing animals in cages, but I believe in OPHS’s mission, and I wanted to
support the grand opening. I was happy to see the huge turnout of people!
I was pleasantly surprised with the layout, and with the size of the facility. One of
my concerns with animal shelters is that most of them house far too many animals
in one room. They are often very noisy, and stressful, and they make me sad for the
animals. That isn’t the case with Kitty City. The cages are large and clean, with nice
beds and cat condos. All the kitties looked healthy and happy.
This new facility is very spacious, well organized, very modern, and clean. The
reception area is nice and comfy, and the staff is very friendly. If I didn’t already
have two adorable fur babies at home, I would have adopted Charlie on the spot.
Well done OPHS!
I adopted my kitty from OPHS at one of their Saturday cat adoption events at Petco in Sequim. I had no intention of getting a cat - I went in for some bird seed. I had to walk by the kitties on my way to the bird seed, but stopped to chat with a kitty out in front. She sniffed my hand and decided I was okay, and just like that I had a kitty. She was fine with me and explored the house immediately and seemed quite happy with her new home. She was 18 months old when I adopted her and is now 13 years old. I think we were meant for each other, because she is not friendly with anyone but me. That's ok, though, because she knows I will protect her from invaders (probably what she thinks other folks are that come to visit). I love her too bits and am very happy we met and I adopted her.
My husband and I drove all the way from Everett to adopt a dog from OPHS. They were friendly and professional. They had a thorough application process and clearly care very much about their animals going to good homes. We fell in love with Jack (now renamed Meatloaf) and brought him home that day!
I was able to get an appointment during COVID to see some furbabies for adoption having had to put my black lab down just as COVID hit. My son and I adopted the sweetest, bestest pittie from OPHS. All the dogs were so healthy and you could tell they were well cared for. Our Athena that we adopted is the most loving and cuddly dog and all the staff and volunteers cared so much about her - she had been there 6 yrs and was loved by all. OPHS takes wonderful and loving care of all of the furbabies! Very clean shelter too!! Great staff!!
I have adopted both my dogs, Stumpy Joe and Happy Crow, from OPHS over an eleven year period. During that time I became intimately involved with the organization ( now in my eighth year as a Board Director) and have watched it grow into a dynamite, professional animal shelter.
While OPHS does not always have the funds to do all the things we want, there is NEVER a shortage of the compassion, devotion and hard work necessary to care for the animals. We like to say “It’s ALL about the Animals!”
This is an amazing place to find your new family member! Their new location is beautiful and a great place to adopt.
It is an honor and a pleasure to work with all the dedicated employees and members of OPHS. An amazing organization always striving for the best quality care and attention of all the animals that they have taken responsibility for.
For over 14 years I have been involved with OPHS. First as a volunteer, then a board member and currently President of the Board of Directors. OPHS is a top-notch shelter with a terrific staff and Executive Director. Our wonderful staff love their jobs and the animals in their care. In addition to all their duties caring for the animals, the staff continues to take training on webinars to learn more about how to best serve the animals, and the public who adopt them. Every staff member is dedicated to finding forever homes for every single animal who comes to us for temporary shelter I am proud to be associated with this absolutely great organization.
I had the opportunity to adopt a cat from Kitty City. The ladies that work in that house are very knowledgeable and caring of the cats and other animals in their care. The transparency and honesty I received while meeting my potential furry friend was very much appreciated. The patience they had during my meeting to make sure it was going to be a good match for both myself and the cat was very nice. I did not feel rushed at all. I felt very good with my decision when I left and enjoy my feline friend greatly!
OPHS has such wonderful staff. I had the opportunity to talk with some of the ladies who work with the cats, the love and care they provide for the cats exceeds expectation. They are very knowledgeable and are always willing to answer any questions. Although I still wish I could take them all home, knowing the care that is provided to each and every cat truly warms my heart.
OPHS staff is stellar and really helped our family pick out the perrrrrfect kittens. They knew all the personalities and just which little one would be right for our household. As a donor, I have seen how they spend their funds and am impressed with their animal-centric focus. I have seen so many new additions in their programs and care for the animals. They are a no-kill shelter, which is important to me personally. I rate them a 5 star facility for certain.
OPHS has been doing a great service in finding homes for many dogs and cats that other shelters gave up on. I know of over a dozen animals that have recently been rescued from high kill shelters in California by OPHS. Within weeks, most of these animals found their forever homes in the PNW. KEEP UP THE GREAT WORK OPHS!!!
Last year, we adopted a rescue dog from Olympic Peninsula Humane Society. "Liberty" came from a kill-shelter in SoCal. She is an adorable Chihuahua-Jack Russel (or Jacqueline Russel) mix. We know she was well-cared-for at OPHS. The fact they have such a network to be able to accept companion animals from long distances says OPHS is committed to meeting their needs. We are glad OPHS is here and for all the good they do for our community.
I joined Olympic Peninsula Humane Society in October 2019 as a Board Member. I asked to join because I love what they do for the animals, and the compassion of the board members, staff and volunteers. We are awaiting the perfect time to adopt an dog or cat.
OPH has been so wonderful with providing care for their animals. I mustered you some courage and personally delivered my care package to the oldest pup there and their facility was clean! The “dog house” wasn’t dungeon like like some shelters I’ve seen, its bright and welcoming. Their facility makes sure that the dogs have what they need. Toys, blankets, food! They also come up with fun ways to get donations from the community when they’re running low on supplies. I support OPH by donating my birthday every year and hold a birthday bash where friends bring dog/cat food, toys, cleaning supplies, etc. and donate it to OPH.
Review from Guidestar
We have so many homeless animals. It breaks my heart. I’m glad OPHS can take them in and care for them until they can be adopted.
Review from Guidestar
I appreciate all of outreach that the Olympic Peninsula Humane Society does in the community and through social media to help find forever homes for animals in their care. I often share their posts and I think that their Facebook page really helps to spread the word about the amazing animals who are available for adoption. I also really appreciate knowing that when an animal is taking to OPH that they are well cared for. Recently, my husband and I purchased a new home and discovered that the previous owner had left his cat behind. We were unable to keep the cat because our giant cat kept attacking and hurting him. I am very thankful for OPH because they took him in and found him a new home.
Review from Guidestar