The Gloucester-Mathews Humane Society (GMHS) is an open-admission, non-profit shelter serving Middle Peninsula communities. As a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, only a small percentage of the Society's operating funds come from the counties we support. The rest comes from fundraising efforts by volunteers, grants, and other sources. 1,000-2,000 animals come through our doors each year. GMHS was formed in 1912 to address community concerns regarding cruelty and abuse of animals in the Middle Peninsula. Primarily concentrating on livestock in the early years, GMHS' focus shifted to advocating on behalf of "companion" animals as the area became less rural and populations grew in the 1970s, which is when the first physical shelter was built. In July 2009, GMHS moved into the state-of-the art shelter facility Middle Peninsula citizens and homeless animals now enjoy.
No appointments are required to visit! This means you can stop by anytime during business hours, Wednesday to Sunday, from 12 Pm to 5 PM. We will remain closed on Monday and Tuesday. If you are considering adoption, submit an adoption questionnaire prior to your visit. All adoptions are performed by appointment, which allows our adoption team to contact your veterinarian for records and/or your landlord for permission as well as discover the personality and pet that will be best suited for your family. We will continue to conduct adoptions by appointment. This ensures prospective adopters have the benefit of uninterrupted time with our team members and pets during meet and greet appointments.