The Lehigh County Humane Society
The Lehigh County Humane Society is an open-admission, no-kill shelter which relies on the love and donations of others to continue our work. We are a private organization that does not receive federal or state funds but depends solely on you, our community! The humane society has been around for many generations and has always helped with animal control in some form. Whether taking in strays found by residents, acting as a holding kennel while owners are looking for new homes for their pets, or providing shelter solutions for other agencies—our non-profit organization exists because people care enough to share their resources with us.
Lehigh County Humane Society was established in 1887 when Mrs. C.S. Dettloff tried to find homes for all stray dogs picked up by the police in Allentown, Lehigh County's largest city. She then found a pound with her own money and started finding homes for these strays.
In 1895, Mrs. Dettloff and three other women petitioned the state legislature and received permission to incorporate Lehigh County Humane Society as a humane society under Pennsylvania law (Act No. 33, July 22, 1895).
The humane society was originally housed in several locations throughout its history: 415 Hamilton Street (1895-1900), Suite 904 of 829 Hamilton Street (1900-1931), 1815 Chew Street (1931-1969), and 675 Jefferson Street (1969-present).
The humane society has always been a voice for the animals, and in 1966 we successfully lobbied for a state law (Act No. 511) that prohibits municipalities from destroying healthy stray animals. In 2002, we helped to pass a bill (Senate Bill 1084) that allowed animal shelters to release feral cats back into their colonies instead of euthanizing them.
The Lehigh County Humane Society is proud to be one of the few open-admission, no-kill shelters in Pennsylvania. We are dedicated to providing protection, care, and love to all animals who come through our doors—including those who are sick, injured, or behaviorally. We could not do this important work without the support of our community! Every donation helps, and we are grateful for any contributions made.
Business Information:
Werley Heating & Air Conditioning
1820 W Fairview St., Allentown, PA 18104, United States
(610) 821-8414