Animal Protection Society of Durham
Our Mission
The Animal Protection Society of Durham (APS) strengthens the bonds between people and animals in Durham County through compassionate care and community engagement. We envision a future where all pets are wanted, respected, and treated with kindness.
Our History and Purpose
Since 1970, APS has been a dedicated advocate for local animals in need. As an independent 501(c)(3) nonprofit, we have proudly managed the Durham County Animal Shelter since 1990 to provide a safe haven for the thousands of stray, surrendered, and abandoned animals who come through our doors each year.
Our Care Model
We are an open-admission facility, meaning we provide a sanctuary for every domesticated animal in Durham County that needs our help. Our team provides medical exams, vaccinations, spay/neuter surgeries, and vital socialization to ensure every animal is prepared for their next chapter. Beyond our facility, we rely on a wonderful network of foster families who offer our pets a loving, home-like environment while they wait for their forever families.
Your Adoption Journey
Adopting a shelter pet is a powerful way to change a life while enriching your own. Our dedicated staff and volunteers are here to guide you through the process, helping you find a companion whose personality, energy, and temperament align perfectly with your unique lifestyle. We believe that every adoption is the beginning of a beautiful, lifelong partnership.
Join Our Community
Are you ready to find your new best friend? We invite you to visit us at our shelter on Club Boulevard during our business hours to meet our amazing adoptable dogs, cats, and small animals. You can also view our current residents online and learn more about how to get involved as a volunteer or foster parent—together, we can build a better community for pets and the people who love them.
- Supportive foster program
- Efficient adoption process for many
- Unprofessional front-desk demeanor
7/28 - Bring home a new friend: Animal shelters offer discounts during month of August
Each August, WRAL partners with NBC and animal shelters across our community to promote pet adoption and raise funds to support animals in need. In 2026, eight organizations are lowering fees to help you bring a new pet home.
