At Second Chance Humane Society, we do all we can to find homes for the cats and dogs who come through our doors. We have some unique challenges, however. We are in a rural setting, in a part of the state where the population is spread out, and we serve three counties and beyond. With these factors, we get creative in introducing our pets to potential adopters.

First, we are working to make our location just north of Ridgway more well-known. We are north of Ridgway off Hwy 550. Turn east on “Owl Creek Pass Rd” (County Rd 10). We are the property with the blue house and big red barn. Many people have driven by and never realized we are on that beautiful ranch. We are challenged by county rules prohibiting us from putting signs on the highway. Our entrance gate is on County Rd 10, so the sign is there (brand new a few months ago).

The shelter is open Wednesday-Sunday from 11 am to 5:30 pm. No appointment or intent to adopt is necessary. You can just come by to see what we do and meet our people and pets!

We are also committed to getting pets out into the community to meet people. Not all can go to adoption or community events. Some are nervous around new people or are not their best selves when away from their routine. Meeting them at the shelter, fostering, or starting an adoption trial are the best ways to get to know these pets.

For those pets who are “event ready”, regular adoption events at Chow Down, Murdoch’s, and Petco are scheduled almost every week, year-round.

You’ll find us at farmers’ markets in Telluride and Ridgway in the summer and fall, community events like Ridgway River Fest, adoption days at Ridgway State Park, kitten yoga at local libraries, Oktoberfest, and more. We’re always looking for new places to help our pets to be seen.

Events are a great way to introduce our adoptable pets to new people and share information about our work. We have some events where the purpose is educational or to provide a service. For example, our veterinary team holds regular vaccine and microchip clinics at Chow Down, plus vaccine and wellness clinics in the west end of Montrose County. We also show up to volunteer fairs, information sessions, and we host community fundraising events. If you are interested in hosting an adoption or educational event, please email Christine at outreach@secondchancehumane.org.

Do you shop in our thrift shops? We are in the process of making our adoptable pets part of your shopping experience. Slideshows and videos of our dogs and cats will soon be streaming in our shops.

 

We have an active and visible social media presence featuring our news, events, and adoptable pets. Following us on Facebook and Instagram and signing up for our newsletter are great ways to stay connected.

Sky is a beautiful dilute tortoiseshell cat who was surrendered to us a few months ago. She’s quickly become a staff and volunteer favorite with her engaging personality and love for everyone.

For thirty years, the Animal Resource Center and Shops of Second Chance Humane Society have been serving Ouray, San Miguel, and Montrose Counties. Our adoption hours are from Wednesday to Sunday, 11 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. You can view our shelter pets and services online at www.secondchancehumane.org. Connecting Pets, People, and Community While Saving Lives.