How DCSPCA Helps Pets Stay with the People Who Love Them

At Dutchess County SPCA, we love animals, and we know their families do too. That's why one of our top priorities isn't just sheltering pets in crisis - it’s preventing that crisis in the first place.

It might surprise you to hear this, but we actually try not to take in pets unless there’s no other option. Why? Most families who come to us are heartbroken. They’re not looking to give up their pets; they’re looking for help.

So, we help.

Our Human Animal Support Services program meets people where they are with practical, compassionate solutions that keep animals safe and families together. So far, we’ve prevented nearly 900 pets from entering the shelter system. With your help, we can do even more.

When families are in crisis, here’s how DCSPCA steps in:

→ Temporary housing for pets when owners face homelessness (up to 45 days) or domestic violence (up to 90 days), completely free.

→ A pet food pantry that provides free food to anyone who needs a helping hand.

→ Low-cost veterinary care at our clinic, including flexible repayment plans for families in financial distress.

→ Affordable vaccines and spay/neuter services, because veterinary care is becoming so expensive and these costs can be difficult for pet parents to manage.

Mike’s story shows just how much these programs matter. Mike was doing everything he could, working 16-hour days just to get back on his feet. When he lost his housing, his heart broke as he handed his best friend, Nala, over to Dutchess County SPCA. She entered our Safety Net Housing Program, and Mike never stopped showing up for her. Nala would light up the moment she saw him, tail wagging and eyes shining, as he whisked her off to the park for their cherished car rides three times a week.

Then came devastating news: Nala had cancer and needed us more than ever. DCSPCA’s veterinary team performed surgery to remove her mammary tumor and never gave up hope.

When Mike finally found a home where she could be with him again, their reunion was pure magic, a moment filled with joyful tears, love, and the kind of bond that never breaks.

All of this was only possible because of Dutchess County SPCA’s Safety Net Housing Program. This is what we do, because no one should have to choose between feeding their pet and feeding themselves, or between keeping a roof over their head and staying with the animal they love.

But none of this is possible without you.

These lifesaving services are among the most expensive programs we offer, and right now, the need is greater than ever. The cost of living continues to rise, veterinary bills are climbing, and families are feeling the strain.

Your gift will help keep animals out of shelters and in the arms of those who love them most. Together, we can protect the bond between pets and their families.

Will you help give community members like Mike and Nala a second chance?

Donate Now

Examples of what your generous gift will provide:

$16 - One week of pet food for a struggling family

$52 - Basic vaccinations for a mama cat and her kittens

$146 - Diagnostic testing for tickborne illnesses in 10 dogs

$427 - 30 days of boarding for an animal like Nala

$1,062 - An emergency surgery at our shelter