Who we are

As the only open-intake animal shelter in Buncombe County, we're always here for the animals in our community.

We love pets, and people.

Since 1984, we’ve dedicated ourselves to ensuring every animal has the quality of life they deserve – a life worth living. Now, we go beyond our walls to help create a more humane community for pets and the people who love them.

Asheville Humane Society is a local, independent nonprofit not affiliated with the Humane Society of the United States.

Learn what makes us, us.

What makes us different

We’re more than an animal shelter, we're a lifeline. Our programs take a holistic approach to lead the way toward a more compassionate world.

Buncombe County Animal Shelter

Located next door to the Adoption Center, the shelter serves as a point of entry for all unsafe or unhealthy stray animals, animals brought in through Animal Services, and animals being surrendered by their owners by appointment. 

Adoption Center

All animals in our Adoption Center come from the Buncombe County Animal Shelter. Our Adoption Center has two goals: to save pets' lives and strengthen the human-animal bond. Last year we helped 3,576 animals of 23 different species find a loving home.

Community Solutions

We help local pet owners care for and keep their beloved pets by increasing access to pet services.

Behavior Support

Our dedicated experts apply innovative strategies to address complex challenges that could prevent an animal's adoption, working with them for weeks or even months so they can thrive.

Relocation

The Relocation Program sends shelter animals to partner organizations across the country, which allows us to keep our doors open to help more animals in need.

Our Impact

Through supporters like you, we have accomplished more than we ever imagined possible. See how we have grown and evolved to meet the needs of our community.