The Humane Society of Fremont County (HSFC) has achieved another remarkable milestone, maintaining its position as Colorado's leading open-admission shelter for the tenth consecutive year. In 2024, the shelter saved an extraordinary 98.17% of all animals that came through its doors, placing it among the top 2% of shelters nationwide for lifesaving efforts.

"Where Every Life Matters" isn't just a slogan at HSFC—it's a promise kept through dedication and unwavering commitment. Despite facing its most challenging financial year in a decade, the shelter successfully facilitated 378 adoptions in 2024, finding forever homes for 176 cats and 202 dogs.

"Even though this year was my toughest financially in the last decade, it didn't stop us from aiming to save as many lives as we could," says Executive Director Doug Rae, who has led the organization since 2014. Under his leadership, the shelter has consistently achieved save rates above 95% annually.

Open Admission Shelter

What makes this achievement particularly noteworthy is HSFC's status as an open-admission shelter. Unlike selective admission facilities, HSFC never turns away an animal in need, regardless of their age, health condition, or breed. They provide refuge and care for every animal—from newborns to seniors, from the perfectly healthy to those requiring extensive medical attention.

Operating from their historic location at 110 Rhodes Avenue in Cañon City, HSFC serves communities throughout Fremont and Custer Counties, including Florence, Coal Creek, Westcliffe, and Silver Cliff. The organization's success stems from a combination of dedicated leadership, community support, and the ongoing legacy of its founders.

The shelter's history dates back to 1950 when businessman Ralph J. Wann, his wife Hazel, and friend Grace Green established the organization. Today, the Ralph J. Wann Foundation continues to provide crucial support, contributing approximately 36% of the shelter's annual budget through monthly distributions.

Setting Standards

As HSFC celebrates this decade of excellence, their achievement stands as a testament to what's possible in animal welfare when compassion meets commitment. Their success proves that open-admission shelters can maintain exceptional save rates while providing comprehensive community services—setting a standard for animal shelters nationwide.

For those interested in supporting HSFC's mission or learning more about their services, the shelter is open Monday through Saturday from 11:00 AM to 4:00 PM at 110 Rhodes Avenue, Cañon City. Community members can also reach out by phone at (719) 275-0663 or visit fremonthumane.com.