about us

for shelter hours click here

It started with a vision of a more humane world and a down-to-earth devotion to saving animals from homelessness and harm.

Geauga Humane Society (GHS) has a proud history of being a leading animal welfare agency in northeast Ohio. We began our life-saving work in 1974 when GHS founder, Arlene MacDonald, and a small group of committed animal advocates embarked on a labor of love.

At the beginning the animals were sheltered in private homes. In 1980, GHS moved into the tiny 800 sq. ft. leased space on Merritt Road in Chardon, Ohio. What our original shelter lacked in size was made up for by a driving passion and enormous energy to better the lives of animals and to help educate people to have respect for all living things.

Our dreams were large. With leadership, and the generosity of thousands of people, including major donors and visionary foundations, we took a giant step. In 2001 GHS opened a new state-of-the-art 10,500 square foot facility on a 14 acre parcel of land on Chillicothe Road in Russell Township, Ohio. We named it Rescue Village.

Today Rescue Village is a vital center for animal welfare. You can learn about the hallmark programs and services we have established throughout this website. Building on the courageous and innovative spirit that brought us this far, we continue to embrace the vision of a world where the relationship between human beings and animals center on empathy and kindness.

Animals at Rescue Village are cared for until they find a new home, including those that are abused, sick or injured, those that may need behavior training, or those that simply need the gift of time. Animals are never euthanized due to age, special needs, or lack of space.

Our passion for combining professionalism with innovation, collaboration, and a great big heart runs through everything we do. All who come through these doors, be they four-legged or two-legged (or the occasional turtle or snake), are treated with respect.

Geauga Humane Society's Rescue Village goes above and beyond for the animals and for the people of northeast Ohio. We started with a vision that continues to capture our imagination and fuel our efforts ~ look at us now and join with us on this journey!