Marin Humane Society
Our Mission
Marin Humane transforms lives through exceptional animal care, humane education, and advocacy. We are dedicated to inspiring compassion and fostering positive, lifelong relationships between people and their animal companions.
Our History and Community
As one of the oldest nonprofits in Marin County, we have a long, proud history of service to our community. We are an independent organization—not a chapter or affiliate of the ASPCA or the Humane Society of the United States—relying entirely on the generosity of our local community to sustain our lifesaving work.
How We Help
We operate as an open-door shelter, providing comprehensive care to every animal that comes through our doors, regardless of their health, age, or behavior. Our dedicated team of staff and volunteers utilizes a robust foster program alongside our facilities to ensure each animal receives the attention and rehabilitation they need. Through community engagement, veterinary services, and animal-assisted programs, we strive to create a more humane world for every animal.
Your Partner in Adoption
We are professional matchmakers who take the time to truly understand the needs of both our animals and potential adopters. Because we spend quality time getting to know each critter with a wagging tail or a soft purr, we are able to facilitate thoughtful, lasting connections. Adopting is a joyful family affair, and we are honored to be a part of your happily ever after.
Connect With Us
Whether you are looking to find your next best friend, interested in volunteering, or want to learn about our upcoming events, we invite you to visit us at our main campus in Novato or one of our community locations. Explore our website to view our currently adoptable pets, fill out a Pets & People Profile, or reach out to our team to start your journey toward making a life happy.
- Professional and knowledgeable staff
- Efficient emergency wildlife response
- Perceived unfriendliness or attitude from staff
9/1 - Petaluma gets new, permanent animal services provider
Sonoma County Animal Services will handle animal control, while the Humane Society of Sonoma County will run the city’s shelter.
8/31 - When planning for emergencies, don’t forget about your pets
With September designated as National Preparedness Month, it’s a good time to be reminded of the importance of preparedness for every member of our family, pets included.
7/17 - Petaluma fires back at grand jury report critical of its handling of animal services
The city was accused of being “asleep at the wheel” for its now-ended relationship with North Bay Animal Services.
7/16 - Marin Voice: Issues with ‘no-kill’ shelters show how focus needs to change
With several large-scale cases in California of alleged cruelty by animal rescues in the spotlight, including the most recent accusations of Miranda’s Rescue in Humboldt County with ties to some Bay Area shelters, it’s time to talk a…
7/12 - ‘Lucky cat’ rescued from Highway 101 after riding on underside of truck for 30 miles
Artie, a spunky 14-year-old cat with a seal-colored coat, was rescued from Highway 101 after he apparently hitched a ride on the underside of a truck for 30 miles.
5/3 - San Diego Humane Society Rescues Dozens of Animals from Sanctuary in Julian
Authorities found more than 100 cats and at least 150 horses, along with dogs, donkeys, alpacas, geese, chickens, roosters, turkeys, goats, peacocks, ravens, and a crow.
5/2 - Massive rescue underway: hundreds of animals seized from Julian sanctuary
Photo from Villa Chardonnay, Horses With Wings, Inc. Facebook pageBy Karen PearlmanMay 1, 2026 (Julian) — In what appears to be one of the largest ever animal welfare interventions locally, the San Diego Humane Society, the County of San Diego Department of Animal Services and several more p
4/20 - Volunteers are the lifeblood of Marin Humane
Most often, the first person I exchange a good morning greeting with when I arrive for work at Marin Humane’s campus is a smiling volunteer. Almost 800 dedicated people donate their time, energy, creativity and skills to ensure Marin Humane…
10/9 - Looking for someone on the smaller side? Come meet Pedro, Gizmo, and Zoe! #adoptadog #adoptme #smalldog #shelterdogs
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10/8 - Raise your hand if you want Henny Penny’s job.✋ She’s 10 weeks old so she really is *~>justababy<~* and she’s eager to meet you! #justababy #adoptme #adoptapuppy #shelterpuppy
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10/6 - Can you believe we’re still getting neonate kittens this late in the year? Kitten season is practically year-round in the Bay Area! 🍼 This baby went to a foster home for bottles and cuddles. If you’ve ever wanted to be a foster, join us for our next volunteer orientation on November 14 or go to marinhumane.org/foster to learn more. #kittenseason #kittens #neonate #bottlebaby #kittensofig
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10/5 - It's Monday and you know what that means! It's time to celebrate last week's adoptions! 🎊 #adoptdontshop
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10/1 - Dogs? Cuddled! ✔️ Drinks? Drunk! ✔️ Money? Raised! ✔️ Fun? Had! ✔️ Difference? Made! ✔️ Tails by Twilight was a magical night to celebrate and support the shelter. Thank you to everyone who joined us or worked to make the evening possible! #tailsbytwilight #charitygala #supportyourlocalshelter #helpanimals #animalshelter
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9/30 - Bow down 🙇🏻♀️ when you’re in the presence of guinea pig royalty. 👑 Stella and bestie Lou are looking for a home together! And no, it doesn’t have to be a castle. 🏰 #adoptme #guineapig #kinginthecastle #animalshelter
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9/29 - We hope everyone had a fabulous Monday! Enjoy the smiles and cuddles from last week's adoptions and join us in saying congrats to all of the adopters!! #adoptdontshop
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9/28 - Junior, Titus and Mia are STILL waiting for furever homes at @marinhumane 🐾❤️🐾 #rescueismyfavoritebreed
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9/24 - Lita’s been waiting soooo patiently. She’s 12 years old and ready to enjoy her senior status in a home that appreciates everything about her. 💜 #siamesecat #seniorcat #sheltercat #adoptacat #adoptme
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9/23 - Is Russell Crows taking a dust bath or doing the Stanky Legg? Cast your vote 👇 (then come adopt him). #rooster #adoptdontshop #backyardchickens #stankyleg
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9/22 - Our sliders are coming for youuuu... 🦈 ...because they’re curious and love snacks! 🤗 Charlie and Jesse are female turtles looking a safe, large pond to call home. If you’d like to adopt one or both, call us at 415-506-6225! #turtle #redearedslider
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