Baltimore Humane Society

Our Mission

Founded in 1927, the Baltimore Humane Society is dedicated to protecting our region’s pets and preventing their suffering. We center all of our efforts around one core concept: living humanely, with respect for all life.

A Legacy of Compassion

Our organization began with the vision of Elsie Seeger Barton, who resolved to devote her life to the care of animals after finding comfort in her own pets during illness. For nearly a century, we have served the community by providing a refuge for homeless animals and advocating for the humane treatment of companion and service animals.

How We Care

We operate a dedicated shelter facility in Reisterstown, MD, where we provide a safe haven for dogs, cats, and small mammals while they wait for their forever homes. As an independent, non-profit organization, we rely on the generosity of private donors rather than public funds to sustain our lifesaving work. We are proud of our commitment to animal welfare, evidenced by our policy against euthanasia for time or space constraints.

Your Partner in Adoption

Adoption is a joyful journey, and our goal is to create lasting, happy partnerships between pets and their new families. Our adoption counselors work closely with you to understand your lifestyle and preferences, ensuring that each animal finds a home where they can thrive. Whether you are looking for a playful puppy, a senior companion, or a bonded pair, we are here to support you in finding the perfect match.

Start Your Story

Are you ready to find your new best friend? We invite you to view our adoptable animals online or visit our Adoption Center in Reisterstown to meet our residents in person. Join us in our mission to give every pet the second chance they deserve.

Trust Assessment
GoldRated Sep 18, 2026
NonprofitVerifiedPhysical FacilityOperating 50+ years
Finances
Online Review Highlights
  • Compassionate and helpful staff
  • Excellent veterinary and support services
  • Rigid adoption application processes
Coverage We Reviewed
WMAR 2 News Baltimore

10/16 - Your weekend planner: Hereford Fall Festival, Barks & Boos, and more

From the Hereford Fall Festival to Barks & Boos, here's what's happening around Maryland this weekend.

Baltimore Sun

7/20 - Capital City Cats, DC’s largest feline show, lands in Timonium

The Capital Cat Show’s move to the Maryland State Fairgrounds was necessitated by the closure of the show’s previous venue in Virginia, which is now an Ikea.

WMAR 2 News Baltimore
Improves Trust

5/29 - 'We want to help': Where pet owners can find affordable care after vet closures

The announcement that a longtime East Baltimore animal hospital was planning to close is shining a light on a growing veterinarian shortage affecting communities across Maryland and the country.

Baltimore Post-Examiner

5/19 - Baltimore Humane Society-Adorable Pets of the Week - Baltimore Post-Examiner

Greetings, Animal Lovers! This week is extra special—Wednesday is National Rescue Dog Day! To celebrate, we’re waiving all dog adoption

Recent Videos

10/12 - It’s Pets of the Week time! Kit Kat and Sky are both so pawfect! Watch more to learn about them. Visit us 12-5pm the rest of the week. View our adoptables on bmorehumane.org! #bmorehumane #baltimore #adopt

Watch on Instagram

10/8 - Seriously, how has this sweet face not been scooped up yet?! At just 1 year old, Tina is full of love, energy, and personality! She’s a treat-loving, adventure-ready girl who has quickly become a staff favorite. 🥹🐾 Whether it’s exploring the world or spending time with her favorite humans, Tina is ready for it all. All she’s missing is someone to share those adventures with! 🧡 🐾 Adopt Tina: https://bmorehumane.org/pets/tina/ #bmorehumane #baltimore #maryland

Watch on Instagram

10/7 - Before Speckles headed off to his forever home, he had one important job to do- test out the Barks & Boos! trail with us! 🎃🥾 Now it’s YOUR turn! Join us Saturday, October 17 from 11AM–2PM for Barks & Boos! at the Baltimore Humane Society. Walk our 1-mile route or take on the 2-mile run or hike, then stick around for the fall festival fun! 🎃 Costume Contest 🎶 Live music 🐾 Dog pool 🎨 Pumpkin painting ⚾️ Oriole bird mascot 🍴 Food trucks, vendors & more 🧡 Your participation helps support the animals at Baltimore Humane Society! 🎟️ Get your tickets: https://secure.qgiv.com/event/bbpfe/ #bmorehumane #baltimore #baltimoreevents #hiking

Watch on Instagram

10/4 - Fall fun is calling… and your pup is invited! Barks & Boos! is on Saturday, October 17 from 11am-2pm! 👻 Join us for a 1-mile walk, 2-mile run or hike, followed by a fall festival packed with fun for the whole family. 🎶 Live music by The Instigators ⚾ Special appearance by the Orioles Mascot 👻 Dog costume contest hosted by @todays1019 🎃 Pumpkin painting 🐶 Dog pool use 🛍️ Vendors & food 👕 @puppielovebrand X Barks & Boos! T-shirt included with registration for the walk, run, hike Plus, become a Fundraising Friend and make an even bigger impact for the animals at Baltimore Humane Society. 🧡 🎟️ Register: https://secure.qgiv.com/event/bbpfe/ #bmorehumane #baltimore #events

Watch on Instagram

9/29 - The dogs stole the phone! Check out their selfies. ♥️ Adopt: bmorehumane.org #bmorehumane #baltimore #adopt

Watch on Instagram

9/28 - Our Pets of the Week are so incredibly sweet. Both are such gentle souls searching for their perfect human. Adopt: bmorehumane.org #bmorehumane #baltimore #adopt

Watch on Instagram
Visit Us At

1601 Nicodemus Rd, Reisterstown, MD 21136

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