The Telluride Humane Society was founded in 2018.
Our mission is based upon the fundamental principle that no animal should be mistreated nor lose its life for lack of proper resources for its care, need of a home and/or rehabilitation.
The Telluride Humane Society is a registered nonprofit 501(c)(3) animal welfare organization dedicated to the compassionate rescue, spay/neuter, foster, adoption, medical-care, education and community-oriented services for the pets and animals of San Miguel County, Colorado and its neighboring communities.
In a collaborative effort with a network of other nonprofit animal welfare organizations, along with local veterinarians, trainers, volunteer advocates, foster caregivers and assisting county government personnel, the Telluride Humane Society is able to provide care, rescue, shelter, new homes, food, medical services and education to local animals every year.
We also serve as a resource to our community by providing information on pet ownership which includes resources for spay/neuter, medical care and nutrition, micro-chipping and positive behavior training.
Mission and Vision
The Telluride Humane Society passionately strives to respect and value the life of every animal.
Our Mission is to:
• End the overpopulation of homeless dogs and cats through mission-critical programs and efforts
• Better animal welfare in the way which animals are treated by setting higher standards of practice and leadership which focus on compassionate and sustainable solutions
• Be of direct and consistent support to the pets and pet owners of San Miguel county and the southwest Colorado region
• Expanding to our neighboring southwest regional areas of Arizona, New Mexico and Utah, we have meaningfully chosen to aid and rescue pets in dire need from the Native American Reservations.
We Value:
• Respect for all life
• Community
• Transparency
• Compassion
• Education
• Meaningful engagement
• Innovation
• Sustainability
The foundation blocks of the Telluride Humane Society’s Mission & Values comes from our community of volunteers and leaders partnered with local organizations, services and government.
Every life matters.
Adoption Policy
Adoption Procedures
We want to ensure that the adoption process is the best match for both human and pet.
STEP 1: Let’s Begin!
Welcome! We ask that you complete our online Adoption Application (below). This application does not work from a mobile phone so please fill out using a computer.
Sometimes we have pets that have multiple interested adopters. Please know that an online application must be submitted to be considered. If you’re watching and waiting for that “right” rescue, we encourage you to complete an application and have it submitted to us so that we can have you fairly in consideration for the pet of your interest.
Important to know: we do not do adoptions on a first come, first serve basis. We truly and sincerely work to find the best match between both human and pet. Additionally, we do not “hold” or “tag” a pet for anyone. If the timing in your life is not right for the pet you are interested in, we regret that we work to find homes as promptly as we are able to.
Important to know: when we have multiple applications for the same pet, our application review process begins with adopters in our local community. This does not mean that they get approved before the best match for the pet, but that is how we begin. Our organization would not exist without fosters and donations which both come from our immediate local community. We have adopted to 27 states, so we will consider and adopt to the best candidate for the pet. But for out of area adopters, please set your expectations accordingly if you are interested in adopting one of our pets.
We do not ship nor transport our pets for adoption. To adopt, you must come to Telluride, CO and you must meet the pet in person. If you have other dogs, your dogs must meet the pet you are interested in adopting.
There are basic requirements that must be met to begin:
• You must be 25 years of age or older.
• Have a U.S. government-issued photo ID, such as a driver’s license or state ID.
• Verify that you are allowed to have a pet of the breed and size where you currently live.
• Verify that you are able to spend the time and resources necessary to provide the proper training, medical treatment and necessary care for your pet.
• Bring along all family members (including children) to meet your new cat or dog. Be sure to bring any resident dogs if you are adopting a dog.
• If you live with your parents, roomate(s) or a significant other – these people must be interviewed and agree that they will equally participate in all areas of care of the pet to be adopted.
• Be able to take the pet home on the day of adoption if that is appropriate with the specific circumstances.
STEP 2: Matching Expectations
Once we receive your application we will have better information and insight into a pet that may be ideal for you and best fit with your lifestyle.
STEP 3: Meeting the Pets
After the application has been reviewed and any questions may have been addressed, we have you and pet meet. If you have any other pets and/or family members that need to meet a pet you are interested in, we will arrange that meeting, too.
When your heart knows you have found the one, let us know that you wish to continue on with the adoption process!
STEP 4: Adoption Consultation
We will meet with you to assist with guidance in helping you and pet transition into a new home with success. We will go over any further questions and the necessary details for the successful love and care of your newly adopted family member.
https://telluridehumanesociety.com/adopt/
Testimonials
No testimonials submitted

Get safe exercise for your dog by renting a private dog park near you
See The Best Dog Rescues & Shelters By Specialization In Colorado
See The Best Dog Rescues & Shelters In Colorado
See The Best Dog Rescues & Shelters In Other Cities Near Colorado
Get your dog the safe enrichment they need by renting a Sniffspot

David Adams is a man of many passions, but his love for dogs stands above all. He is not only a dog lover, but also the founder of an innovative platform called Sniffspot. This unique platform connects dog owners with private property owners who are willing to rent out their space for off-leash playtime. While the idea of Sniffspot was initially conceived by his wife, Rebecca, David has been the driving force behind its remarkable success, tirelessly overseeing its growth and development.
David's dedication to providing safe and enjoyable spaces for dogs to play, explore, and socialize is evident in his unwavering commitment to Sniffspot. He strongly believes that dogs need ample space and opportunities to stretch their legs and have fun. As a result, he has worked tirelessly to build a network of private property owners across the country who share his vision and are willing to offer their space for the benefit of dogs and their owners.
Despite his busy schedule, David always finds time to indulge in his passion for the great outdoors. He loves nothing more than exploring new hiking trails and embarking on thrilling outdoor adventures. Whenever he is not working on Sniffspot, he can often be found hiking or visiting multi-acre fenced sniffspots with his two beloved dogs, Soba and Toshii. He is an avid outdoorsman who enjoys the fresh air, breathtaking scenery, and the sense of freedom that comes with being in nature.
David is based in Salem, MA.
Read more