About Us

At our Adoption Center, we assess behavior and treat conditions as necessary with all animals under our care. Prior to adoption, each animal is provided with all the appropriate vaccinations, a microchip, dewormed, and are spayed or neutered. In addition, each pet goes home with a 30-day free health insurance plan. We are committed to finding lifelong homes for every pet. Screening and counseling of potential families contribute to our successful adoptions.  

The Blue Ridge Humane Society works closely with Henderson County Animal Services, the only open admission facility in our County. As an “open admission” facility, Henderson County Animal Services are responsible for all admissions including strays, owner surrenders, and confiscated animals. Since the County Shelter is unable to refuse intakes due to lack of kennel space and the overwhelming homeless pet population, they are forced to euthanize for space. To try to alleviate space concerns, we receive the majority of our animals from Henderson County Animal Services as well as from other open admission animal shelters in surrounding counties.  

Beyond Adoptions

• Spay/Neuter Incentive Program (SNIP):  Provides low-cost spay/neuter services through a collaborative agreement with the Humane Alliance in Asheville, NC.  The Humane Alliance Spay/Neuter Clinic is a nationally recognized model for reducing needless euthanasia and for providing humane, quality alternatives for controlling pet populations.  
• Foster Program:  Involves individuals who are approved to be foster parents to provide temporary housing for one or more of our animals.  An animal may have a medical or behavioral issue or not be appropriate for a shelter environment but would thrive in a home setting.  BRHS covers food and medical costs for the animal until it is adopted out.   
• Community Pet Food Assistance:  We partner with local food banks by supplying litter, pet food or treats to their clients. By making pet food more accessible, it is our hope that members of our community will no longer have to worry about feeding their furry family members. We offer emergency veterinary cost assistance, as well.  
• Meals on Wheels Pet Pals:  Council on Aging of Henderson County currently serves 115 pet owners through their Meals on Wheels program. Many of those individuals own more than one pet, making the total pets among their clients close to 184. Although 47 clients receive food each day from Meals on Wheels, some still lack basic pet care. Through our Meals on Wheels Pet Pals program, we wish to provide basic socialization, hygiene, and medical care to the pets living with Meals on Wheels recipients. Through this service we will not only improve the quality of life for pets but also keep them in loving homes.  
• Vaccine Clinics:  In an effort to make vaccinations accessible and affordable to the animals and residents of Henderson County, we will be offering low cost vaccine clinics on the third Monday of every month from 1:00-5:00 at our Adoption Center.  
• Re-Homing Listing:  To help these pet owners, we provide a courtesy re-homing listing for those who would like to find a loving home for a pet without surrendering them to an animal shelter.   
• Training Classes:  Classes are offered throughout the year to the public and at a discount to adopters.  All fees collected go directly to the Blue Ridge Humane Society animal medical funds.  
• Community Outreach Events:  Blue Ridge Humane Society loves getting out into the community and talking to people about what we do! Whether it be hosting an adoption event at your organization or tabling at festivals, we greatly appreciate the opportunity to connect with members of our community.  
• Pet Helpline: Whether it be litter box problems, housing issues, dog training tips, stray neighborhood cats, vet assistance, suspected abuse/neglect, or concerns about keeping your pet, call (828) 393-5832 and we will have you covered.
• Education Programs:  Humane education lessons with the schools and community organizations include the ABC’s of animal sheltering, understanding your pet’s needs, pet communication, and much more. When you schedule your visit, we will work with you to meet the learning needs of your students.  
• Emergency Vet Assistance: Though we are not able to assist with existing medical bills, BRHS offers Emergency Veterinary Assistance in times of economic distress. We provide medical vouchers to assist with emergency veterinary visits prior to your visit.

Support & Funding​

Blue Ridge Humane Society receives funding through donations from caring individuals, corporate partners in the community, grants, and foundations. Gifts are made through the mail or online. Blue Ridge Humane Society also accepts in-kind donations of items and materials to support operations. Business Partnerships provide support financially and through in-kind support.  We ask for 100% financial participation from our board each year. 

Organization Structure

Blue Ridge Humane Society is managed by a small salaried staff and a large group of dedicated volunteers who generously donate their time and talents.  Volunteers make it possible for us to operate our thrift store.  Volunteers at our adoption center assist our staff with animal care and training.   

A volunteer Board of Directors provides guidance regarding our policies and operations with emphasis on oversight, financial accountability, and accuracy.  Our board meetings are open to the public and all organizational records are available for public review.