Frequently Asked Questions

We believe all animals deserve humane treatment, regardless of the situation. It is only in the rarest of circumstances, based on behavioral or medical condition, that an animal is humanely euthanized. Euthanasia is a last resort, and our staff is heartbroken when it’s the only option, an option based on policies and guidelines that govern the humane treatment of animals and community safety.

All adoptable animals have space here at Ark-Valley and stay until they’ve found their person or people, and a place to call home.  AVHS does not have time limits for animals and does not euthanize animals for reasons of time limits or space.

AVHS promotes the human-animal bond, rescues, and protects a range of companion animals, places adoptable animals in responsible homes, responds to disasters, supports animals with medical treatment and care, provides spay and neuter programs, offers support programs to help keep pets in homes, educates the public on animal safety, and confronts cruelty and neglect through our law enforcement partnerships. It is our mission to ensure the welfare of companion animals through compassion and care, and we perform that task with rigor.

AVHS receives funding from a variety of public, private, and philanthropic entities. In any given year, approximately 40% percent of our funding comes from donations, fundraising and grants, 25% percent from service fees, and 35% percent from a county mill levy.

Once an animal is relinquished to the AVHS, the pet is our sole responsibility, and we are liable for the animal’s actions. The individual is informed and contractually agrees to transferring ownership to AVHS where we perform safety assessments. Once ownership has been transferred to the shelter as a result of relinquishment, due to safety and liability concerns, the shelter may deny any request to have an animal returned to a previous owner.  It is only in rare instances that a pet is returned to the caregiver that relinquishes the animal, and doing so is solely at AVHS’s discretion.

The AVHS employs an experienced, highly skilled, overtly compassionate team, both employees and board members, that respect all animals.  From veterinary and surgical expertise to ongoing training and education, we understand and approach our work with passion, conviction, and professionalism. AVHS is a member of the Animal Welfare Association of Colorado and its staff members regularly attend AWAC conferences and trainings.  We proudly partner with veterinarians, animal specialists, and trusted advisors, to help guide and direct our work.