Our Story
Beginnings
Amidst the heartbreaking sight of stray dogs being tied to trees, and if not claimed, shot to death. A group of animal lovers came together to form the Nelson County Humane Society in 1981. Their tireless efforts led to the construction of a small shelter with four dog runs at the county landfill in Arrington. The shelter was built by the hands of students from the local high school’s Building Trades class.
at the Animal Control Facility
During the early years, the Nelson County Animal Control Facility faced significant challenges. The facility was not regularly open to the public, resulting in minimal adoption opportunities and a bleak 2% adoption rate. In response, board members began volunteering their time to open the facility on Wednesdays and Sundays, striving to increase public access and improve adoption rates.
Contract and Management
The pivotal moment came in October 1991, when Nelson County entrusted Nelson SPCA with the management of the Animal Control Facility. Under their leadership, significant improvements were made, including opening the facility to the public daily. This change led to a substantial increase in adoption rates, soaring from 2% to 40% by March 1998, when the contract with the county was concluded.
Transition to No-Kill and New Beginnings
From 1998 to March 2004, after parting ways with the county, Nelson SPCA faced the challenge of operating without a physical facility. During this period, they continued their mission through a network of foster homes, demonstrating resilience and dedication to no-kill principles.
Through relentless fundraising efforts and the kindness of a donor who gifted us two acres of land, we built the Almost Home Pet Adoption Center—a beacon of hope for dogs…and now cats as well!
Broader Outreach and Adoption Success
Nearly two decades after the opening of the Almost Home Pet Adoption Center, Nelson SPCA has made remarkable strides in animal adoption. Since its inception, over 5,000 animals have found loving homes—a testament to the organization’s commitment and the community’s support.
These adoptions have taken place not only at Nelson SPCA but also through innovative partnerships with local pet stores like Pet Forum and Pet Supplies Plus in Charlottesville, as well as at various community events. Additionally, Nelson SPCA has collaborated with breed-specific rescue groups and has been active in transporting animals to no-kill shelters across Virginia and into states like Massachusetts and New Jersey, broadening the impact beyond local borders.
Striving for a No-Kill Community
The HS/SPCA Board of Directors has been steadfast in its vision to transform Nelson County into a no-kill community. This ambitious goal aims to ensure that no healthy, friendly, and adoptable animal is euthanized at the County’s Animal Control Facility.
Remarkably, data from the Petco Love Foundation in 2020 highlighted a significant achievement—Nelson County reached a 96% save rate, well above the 90% threshold that defines a no-kill community. This milestone not only reflects the success of our progressive animal welfare practices but also showcases the profound impact of community involvement.
The Road Ahead
As we reflect on our journey, Nelson SPCA of Nelson County is filled with gratitude for the thousands of lives we’ve transformed together with our community. Our future is bright with the promise of continuing this vital work, striving each day to save as many animals in our care as humanely possible.
We remain committed to enhancing our programs and reaching further into the heart of our community. Your support fuels our mission. Join us as we look forward to more chapters of success and shared joy, creating a legacy of love and care that endures.