Finding the Perfect Match – One Adoption at a Time

At the Northumberland Humane Society, our goal is simple: to match the right pet with the right home, creating a forever family built on love and trust.

When you open your heart and home to a shelter animal, you’re not just changing their life — you’re changing yours, too. From day one, we’re here to support you on this incredible journey.

Ready to meet your new best friend?
Check out the amazing animals currently waiting for their forever homes.

Open your home. Change a life.

The Northumberland Humane Society is always looking for caring foster homes to provide temporary shelter for animals awaiting adoption. We supply everything you need — food, dishes, litter, blankets, crates, medications, and prescription diets if needed.

You supply the love, time, and safe space to help an animal thrive until they find their forever home.

Foster Requirements:

Must be 18+ years old

Must have access to a vehicle

Must have time to care for a foster animal

Ready to make a difference? Click below.

Found a Stray?

If you’ve found a loose dog and can safely contain it, depending on your location, you may bring it directly to the Northumberland Humane Society or have the animal picked up by our Animal Control Officers. Please click the link button below, for location specific details.

Cats are not subject to leash or containment bylaws like dogs. However, NHS will accept stray or distressed cats on a case-by-case basis.

Help Reunite Pets with Their Families

Posting sightings and clear photos of found animals on local lost and found pet groups or community pages is one of the most effective ways to reunite them with their families. A single post can make all the difference.

Need to Surrender a Pet?

We understand that surrendering a pet is a difficult decision. If you're no longer able to care for your animal, the Northumberland Humane Society accepts surrenders from Northumberland County residents by appointment only.

Rabies vaccinations are required for all cats and dogs.
A surrender fee may apply, depending on the animal.
Our staff will review all details when you book your appointment.

If you're considering surrender due to behavioural issues, please reach out first — many challenges can be resolved with proper training and guidance. We’re happy to connect you with helpful resources.

Please note: Once surrendered, your pet becomes the property of NHS and the decision is final.

Download surrender forms below for cats, dogs, or small animals.

Pet Licensing

Dog licenses help keep pets safe and ensure a quick return home if they’re lost.

You can renew your dog’s license at your local town hall (availability of in-person or online services may vary by municipality) or at the Northumberland Humane Society.

Annual Licensing Fees:

$20 – Spayed or neutered dogs

$35 – Unaltered dogs

No fee – Therapy and service dogs are exempt from renewal fees

For questions about licensing in your area, please contact your local municipality or the Northumberland Humane Society.

Animal Control Services

The Northumberland Humane Society proudly partners with several local municipalities to provide animal control services and manage the intake of stray animals in participating areas of Northumberland County.

Our Animal Control Team is committed to promoting responsible pet ownership while helping educate the public on local bylaws and provincial legislation, including the Dog Owners' Liability Act. Learn more about our services at the link below.

Our team is here to help ensure the safety and well-being of both animals and the community.