New
Biscuit
Biscuit is a gentle golden with a heart full of love. He's great with kids and can't wait to share his days with you.
60 Years of Compassion · Northumberland County, Ontario
Every animal deserves
Every animal deserves
a place to call home.
The Northumberland Humane Society has been a refuge for animals in need since 1964. Today, we're building something bigger — and we need your help.
60+
Years of Service
1.2K
Animals / Year
$4M
Capital Campaign
Ready for a Home
Animals Looking for
Animals Looking for
Their Forever Family
New
Available
Luna
Luna is a quiet and elegant tabby who loves window-watching and slow mornings. She'll bloom in a calm, loving home.
Available
Duke
Duke thrives on outdoor adventures and is eager to please. A loyal companion waiting for his person.
New
Pepper
Playful and mischievous, Pepper brings energy and laughter wherever she goes. She's looking for a home to explore.
Our full adoption listings are updated daily via PetPoint
Our Impact
60 years. Countless lives.
1,200+
Animals Sheltered Annually
85%
Live Outcome Rate
400+
Families Helped by Pet Food Bank
$0
Government Funding — 100% Community-Supported
Who We Are
Serving Northumberland County Since 1964
The Northumberland Humane Society is a not-for-profit organization dedicated to the humane care, protection, and rehoming of dogs, cats, and small animals across Northumberland County.
Unlike many assume, NHS receives no government funding. Every rescue, every medical procedure, every adoption is made possible through the generosity of our community.
No government funding — 100% community-powered
Comprehensive care including medical treatment for all animals
Pet food bank supporting families in financial hardship
$4 million capital campaign for a new modern facility
What We Do
Programs & Services
We do more than shelter animals. We support families, reunite pets with owners, and build a more compassionate community.
Animal Adoption
We match animals with loving families through a careful, compassionate adoption process designed to create lifelong bonds.
Lost & Found Reunification
We help families and lost pets find each other through our dedicated reunification service and community network.
Pet Food Bank
Supporting families who struggle to care for their animals during financial hardship — ensuring pets stay in the homes where they are loved.
Community Education
From responsible pet ownership workshops to school visits, we help build a more informed and compassionate community.
Volunteer Program
Over 100 dedicated volunteers give their time to walk dogs, socialize cats, and keep NHS running every day.
Transfer Program
We partner with rescue organizations to transfer animals from high-intake areas, giving every animal a fair chance.
Community Stories
Voices of Our Community
"Adopting from NHS was one of the best decisions our family has ever made. The staff genuinely care about finding the right match — not just processing adoptions."
"The pet food bank has been a lifeline for us. Knowing that our dogs could stay with us through a difficult time meant the world to our whole family."
"Volunteering at NHS has changed my perspective on what community means. The animals teach you about resilience, and the team shows you what dedication looks like."
Find Your New Best Friend
Adopt an Animal
Our animals have been through a lot. They deserve love, warmth, and a family who chooses them. Could that be you?
Our adoption listings are updated in real-time through our PetPoint shelter management system. The animals displayed below are currently available. To begin the adoption process, click "Meet [Name]" and complete our online application.
New Arrival
Biscuit
Biscuit came to us after his family had to move. He's house-trained, loves fetch, and gives the best cuddles.
Available
Luna
A graceful, quiet soul who adores sunny windowsills and the sound of rain. Luna will steal your heart gently.
Available
Duke
Duke loves long hikes, swimming, and learning new tricks. He's looking for an active family to call his own.
New Arrival
Pepper
Pepper is the definition of pure kitten energy. She needs a home ready for adventure, mischief, and lots of love.
Available
Clover
A sweet, curious Holland Lop who loves exploring and gentle attention. Clover would thrive as an indoor companion.
Senior
Rosie
Rosie has wise eyes and a calm, loving spirit. She asks only for a warm lap and someone to be with. Senior adoption fees are waived.
How It Works
The Adoption Process
We want every adoption to be the right fit — for you and for the animal.
1. Browse Animals
Explore our available animals online or visit us in person to meet them.
2. Apply Online
Complete our straightforward adoption application through our PetPoint system.
3. Meet & Greet
Spend time with your potential new family member before making the decision.
4. Welcome Home
Complete your adoption, pick up your welcome package, and begin your journey together.
What We Do
Programs & Services
From shelter and adoption to community outreach, NHS provides essential services that extend far beyond our walls.
Core Service
Animal Sheltering & Care
Every animal that comes through our doors receives comprehensive care — shelter, nutrition, veterinary treatment, and the attention they need to recover and thrive.
We work with a network of veterinary partners to ensure animals receive diagnostics, treatment, and surgical care when needed, all funded entirely through community support.
Full veterinary intake examination for every animal
Spay/neuter program for all adopted animals
Microchipping and vaccination on arrival
Dedicated isolation for animals requiring quarantine
Community Support
Pet Food Bank
Our pet food bank serves families across Northumberland County who love their animals but face financial hardship. We believe that economic difficulty should never mean losing a beloved pet.
Demand for our food bank services has grown significantly — and we are committed to expanding our capacity to meet the need.
Monthly food distributions for dogs, cats, and small animals
No eligibility requirements — discretionary and compassionate
400+ families served annually
All Programs
Everything We Offer
Adoption & Rehoming
Finding the right home for every animal through careful matching, counselling, and post-adoption support.
Lost & Found
Helping reunite lost pets with their families through our database, community network, and dedicated staff.
Volunteer Program
Over 100 volunteers power our daily operations — dog walking, cat socialization, event support, and more.
Community Education
School visits, responsible pet ownership workshops, and public outreach programs to build a more informed community.
Animal Transfer Program
Partnering with rescues across Ontario to transfer animals from high-intake facilities, saving lives beyond our county.
Foster Program
Opening your home to an animal in need — providing temporary care for animals recovering from illness, injury, or surgery.
Every Dollar Saves a Life
Support Our Work
NHS receives no government funding. Your generosity is what makes animal rescue, care, and adoption possible in Northumberland County.
Give Today
Choose Your Impact
Every gift — of any size — changes a life. All donations processed securely through CanadaHelps.
$25
/ month
Friend of NHS
Feeds one animal in our shelter for a full month.
Monthly e-newsletter
Annual tax receipt
$50
/ month
Animal Guardian
Covers veterinary care for one animal in need.
Named animal updates
Shelter visit invitation
Annual tax receipt
$100
/ month
Shelter Champion
Sponsors a full rescue, intake, and recovery for one animal.
Impact report twice yearly
Recognition on NHS website
Annual donor event invite
$500+
One-time or custom
Legacy Donor
Major gift with naming opportunities in our new facility.
Named room or space opportunity
Private facility tour
Personal stewardship plan
Prefer a one-time gift? Any amount makes a difference.
Tax receipts issued through CanadaHelps. Charitable registration #: 10786 4613 RR0001
Shop with Purpose
NHS Thrift Store
Every purchase and every donation to our Thrift Store directly funds the care of animals in our shelter.
About the Store
Your Finds Fund Their Care
The NHS Thrift Store is more than a place to find great deals — it's one of our most important sources of operational funding. Every item you purchase or donate helps cover the cost of food, veterinary care, and shelter for animals in our care.
Located in the heart of the community, our store offers a carefully curated selection of clothing, housewares, furniture, books, and more — all at prices that make giving back easy.
Store Hours
Monday – Wednesday10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Thursday – Friday10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Saturday10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
SundayClosed
Location: 6 Collins Court, Cobourg, ON K9A 3J3
Phone: (905) 372-2722
Donation Drop-Off
We gratefully accept gently used items during store hours. Drive up to our rear entrance for easy drop-off.
We Accept:
Clothing & accessories
Books & media
Housewares & decor
Furniture (select items)
Pet supplies & toys
Sporting equipment
We are unable to accept mattresses, large appliances, TVs older than 5 years, car seats, cribs, or items that are broken, stained, or heavily worn. This helps us keep quality high for our shoppers.
The Store's Impact
Shopping Changes Lives
"Your $15 sweater might have just funded a week of meals for a dog waiting for adoption."
$120K+
Annual Revenue Generated
1,000+
Items Donated Each Month
100%
Of Revenue Funds Animal Care
Make a Difference
Get Involved
There are so many ways to support NHS — your time, your skills, and your compassion are all needed and valued.
Volunteer
Join Our Volunteer Team
Our volunteers are the heartbeat of NHS. From dog walkers to event organizers, every role makes a direct difference to the animals in our care and the families we serve.
We ask for a minimum commitment of 4 hours per month and provide full orientation and training for all roles.
Volunteer Roles
Find Your Place at NHS
Animal Care Volunteers
Dog walking, cat socialization, feeding, and general TLC for animals in shelter care.
Foster Families
Provide temporary homes for animals recovering, nursing litters, or waiting for adoption.
Events & Fundraising
Help plan and execute NHS events, donation drives, and community engagement activities.
Community Education
Visit schools and community groups to share knowledge about responsible pet ownership.
Transport Volunteers
Help transport animals to vet appointments, foster homes, and transfer pickup points.
Thrift Store Volunteers
Sort donations, assist shoppers, stock shelves, and help keep the store running smoothly.
Volunteer Application
Fill out the form below and our volunteer coordinator will be in touch within 3–5 business days.
Thank you! Your application has been received. We'll be in touch soon.
Partner With Purpose
Corporate Giving & Partnerships
Align your business with one of Northumberland County's most trusted community organizations and make a lasting impact.
Why Partner With NHS
Good for Business.
Good for Business.
Great for Animals.
NHS has been a cornerstone of the Northumberland community for 60 years. A partnership with NHS connects your brand to a mission that resonates across demographics and communities throughout the region.
Our $4 million capital campaign offers rare naming and sponsorship opportunities that will carry your brand and legacy for decades.
Campaign Sponsorship
Sponsorship Opportunities
Our capital campaign offers four levels of corporate partnership, each with meaningful recognition and community impact.
Gold
$50,000+
Premier Facility Partner
- Named room or wing in the new facility (permanent)
- Premier logo placement on all campaign materials, website, and facility signage
- Founding partner recognition at our 60th Anniversary gala
- Annual private tour and stewardship report
- Complimentary adoption counselling sessions for employees
Silver
$25,000+
Campaign Cornerstone Partner
- Named feature or space in the new facility
- Logo on NHS website, campaign materials, and facility
- Recognition at NHS 60th Anniversary events
- Social media and press recognition
Community
$10,000+
Community Builder
- Recognition on the NHS donor wall
- Logo on NHS website and annual report
- Social media recognition and press release
Friend
$2,500+
Business Supporter
- Name on NHS website donor acknowledgement page
- Social media thank you post
- Invitation to NHS campaign events
Custom Partnerships Also Available
We welcome conversations about corporate matching programs, in-kind support, employee engagement initiatives, and other creative partnership structures.
Celebrating 60 Years · 1964–2024
About Northumberland Humane Society
For six decades, NHS has been the safety net for animals with nowhere else to turn — and the resource for families who needed us most.
Our Mission
Humane Care, Protection & Rehoming
The Northumberland Humane Society is a not-for-profit organization dedicated to the humane care, protection, and rehoming of dogs, cats, and small animals across Northumberland County, Ontario.
We believe every animal deserves dignity, safety, and a chance at a loving home. We believe families who are struggling deserve a community that helps them keep the pets they love. And we believe that a compassionate society invests in the organizations that protect its most vulnerable — including its animals.
This work is only possible through philanthropy. NHS receives no government funding for its operations. Everything we do is the direct result of community generosity.
Our History
60 Years of Compassion
1964
NHS is Founded
A group of dedicated Northumberland County residents establishes the Humane Society to provide organized care for abandoned and stray animals.
1978
First Permanent Shelter Opens
NHS opens its first dedicated shelter facility in Cobourg, providing proper housing and care for animals in the community.
1995
Spay/Neuter Program Launched
NHS establishes one of the region's first organized spay/neuter programs to help control pet overpopulation.
2008
Thrift Store Opens
The NHS Thrift Store opens as a community resource and important revenue stream supporting shelter operations.
2014
50th Anniversary
NHS celebrates 50 years of service with a milestone fundraising campaign and community celebration.
2018
Pet Food Bank Launched
In response to growing community need, NHS establishes its pet food bank to support families facing financial hardship.
2023
Record Intake Year
NHS shelters more than 1,200 animals — the highest annual intake in our history — demonstrating the critical need for expanded facilities.
2026
$4M Capital Campaign Launches
NHS announces its largest-ever capital campaign to build a new, modern animal care facility — in celebration of our 60th anniversary.
What Drives Us
Our Values
Compassion
We treat every animal — and every person we serve — with dignity, kindness, and genuine care.
Community
We are stronger together. NHS exists because of the community — and we exist to serve it in return.
Integrity
We are transparent stewards of community trust — accountable in everything we do with the resources we are given.
We're Here to Help
Contact Us
Have a question, want to report a lost pet, or just need to get in touch? We'd love to hear from you.
Send Us a Message
We aim to respond within 1–2 business days.
Thank you! Your message has been sent. We'll be in touch soon.
Reach Us Directly
Shelter Hours
Mon–Fri: 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Sat–Sun: 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Sat–Sun: 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Lost & Found
Lost or found an animal in Northumberland County? We can help.
If you've found an injured animal in immediate distress, please call us at (905) 372-2722.