Mission Statement
We are a no-kill, open-admission animal shelter that does not discriminate by breed. As the only shelter in our county serving both cats and dogs, we are dedicated to providing compassionate care and finding loving homes for every animal. Our work is mostly funded by donations, which support all animal housing, food, staffing support, veterinary care and medical needs. We are a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, and all contributions are tax-deductible to the extent allowed by law.
About the Animal Shelter of Schoharie Valley, Inc.
Founded in 1975, the Animal Shelter of Schoharie Valley, Inc. was established by compassionate residents of Schoharie County who were deeply concerned about the growing number of hungry, abused, and stray animals in the area. Determined to make a difference, this dedicated group raised the funds needed to build the county’s first animal shelter at 304 Howes Cave Road in Howes Cave, NY. From this location, they began rescuing, caring for, and rehoming abandoned animals, offering them a second chance at life in loving homes.
As the years went on, the original shelter building could no longer meet the growing demand. In 2010, thanks once again to the incredible support of the community, funds were raised to construct a modern, expanded facility on the same property. The current shelter, still in use today, can accommodate up to 33 dogs and 50 cats, providing a safe and welcoming environment for animals in need.
In the spring of 2023, the Animal Shelter of Schoharie Valley received a transformative gift—a generous donation from Nicholas Juried, along with funding from the New York State Companion Animal Capital Fund Grant. With this vital support, the shelter is now planning the construction of a state-of-the-art veterinary clinic on-site. This new facility will enhance the care available to animals at the shelter and enable the organization to offer low-cost spay and neuter clinics to Schoharie County residents, helping to reduce the number of unwanted litters and promote responsible pet ownership throughout the community.