We at Second Chance are pet lovers who work every day to make sure our cats and dogs are given the best. We strive to find loving homes, and we work for their well-being while they’re in our care.

Good intentions and love for pets are not enough. Colorado has laws that govern and regulate animal rescues, shelters, boarding facilities, and grooming shops. The animal governing entity is PACFA (Pet Animal Care and Facilities Act). It is a model program that was enacted to protect the health, safety, and welfare of animals in pet care facilities. It also protects consumers who use pet-related services.

As a PACFA-licensed shelter, we have stringent rules and regulations that we must follow. We work hard to meet or exceed the licensing requirements of the state of Colorado. We are inspected regularly. PACFA makes sure that we meet, or exceed, minimum standards for physical facilities, sanitation, ventilation, lighting, heating, cooling, humidity, spatial and enclosure requirements, nutrition, humane care, medical treatment, methods of operation, and record keeping.

PACFA rules are constantly being updated. One recent example is that they now require licensed shelters and rescues to provide for the behavioral needs of dogs and cats in their care. While we’ve always had behavior enrichment and evaluation plans, now it’s required.

Our annual PACFA inspection happens without warning. So, we have to meet or exceed the requirements every day. We typically pass with just a few minor things to fix or update. It’s a testament to our staff who are conscientious and dedicated to doing the right thing every day.

Tara Cleveland, Second Chance Humane Society Operations Manager says, "Through the PACFA licensing/inspection process we know we are on the right track to help as many animals in need as we can. We made necessary repairs and updates to ensure we have a safe place for animals in our community to go. Not only are they going to a safe, clean, and comfortable shelter but they are surrounded by humans that truly love them while they wait for their new home."

We encourage our communities to support and adopt at PACFA shelters and rescues. The licensing process protects pets.

*Max is a sweet but shy kitten who needs a patient family that will understand him! He loves other cats and would thrive in any calm, gentle home. He is ready to show his affectionate side!*

Since 1994, the Animal Resource Center and the Shops of Second Chance Humane Society have been dedicated to serving animals in Southwestern Colorado. Our adoption hours are every day from 11 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. We are located at 177 County Rd 10, Ridgway, CO. You can view our shelter pets and services online at secondchancehumane.org.