Rutland County Humane Society
Where Every Tail Finds Hope
Rutland County’s Humane Society, operating as Tails of Hope, is dedicated to advocating for and working toward a responsible and humane community by providing shelter, veterinary care, and adoption opportunities for pets in need.
Our Story
Our journey began in 1959 when two neighbors, Ellen Holbrook Porter and Olive Smith, saw stray animals suffering and decided to take action. Today, we continue that legacy from our facility in Pittsford, where we have served over 125,000 animals and act as a safe harbor for the 28 towns within Rutland County.
How We Care
We are an independent, private non-profit operating as a no-kill shelter, where every healthy and treatable animal receives the time and compassion they need to thrive. Our facility provides essential medical care, nutrition, and daily love, while our dedicated team and foster network work to ensure that every animal feels safe during their stay.
Your Perfect Match
At Tails of Hope, adoption is an art and a calling rather than a transaction. Our adoption counselors take the time to learn about your lifestyle and home to ensure we create a lasting, joyful partnership that changes both your life and the life of a deserving pet.
Join Our Pack
Your new best friend is waiting to meet you, and we invite you to browse our available animals online or visit our Adoption Center in Pittsford. Whether you are ready to adopt, foster, or volunteer, you can be part of the story that gives every animal a second chance at a happy ending.
- Compassionate animal care
- Community support for rescues
- Rigid adoption eligibility requirements
10/30 - Pets with Potential: Meet Benny, Miss Bea and Hereford
Are you looking to add a new furbaby to your family? Meet these Pets with Potential waiting at the Rutland County Humane Society for their forever homes.
9/11 - Pets with Potential: Meet Mindy, Bucky and Sylus
This week’s Pets with Potential come from the Rutland County Humane Society.
8/11 - Rutland County Humane Society rebrands as Tails of Hope - The Vermont Journal & The Shopper
The organization long known as Rutland County Humane Society (RCHS) is changing its name and stepping into a new chapter.
8/10 - Rutland County Humane Society Critter Corner - August 10, 2026
RCHS’s 20th Annual Duck Derby will race thousands of ducks for animal care funds, with prizes, live streaming, and adoption fun.
7/14 - Rutland County Humane Society Critter Corner - July 14, 2026
Camp Forever Friends at RCHS helps kids learn animal welfare. Meet Peanut, Chico, Kaden and Rosie—click for adoption details.
7/13 - Vermont animal shelter hosts summer camp this week and camper's projects will benefit their animals
The Rutland County Humane Society is hosting its Fur-Ever Friends day camp this week where campers will make dog treats, cat toys and adoption posters, to help the animals
6/26 - Pets with Potential: Meet Peanut, June, and Olive
This week’s Pets with Potential come from the Rutland County Humane Society in Pittsford.
