what is currently happening at the Meriden Humane Society needs to be brought to light. Recently, volunteers have been dismissed simply for questioning leadership and not aligning with the organization's current ideology and decision-making. This followed the annual membership meeting on the 17th, which itself was deeply troubling--but that's a separate issue. What's most upsetting is that volunteers who have dedicated years of their lives to this shelter are being removed for speaking up. One individual who was recently dismissed volunteered for over a decade, fostered dogs, cleaned kennels, and served as an intake coordinator. These are people who give their time freely, who care deeply about the animals, and who are essential to the shelter's daily operations. Instead of valuing experience, dedication, and concern for animal welfare, leadership appears to be prioritizing ego and internal politics--things that have no place in a humane society. This lack of integrity and leadership ultimately harms the animals most, as volunteers are fired or leave in frustration, leaving fewer hands to care for dogs and cats who depend on them. I'm sharing this because people are being silenced and removed for making their voices heard. Transparency and accountability matter--especially in an organization entrusted with the care of vulnerable animals. Do better. read more

We had been searching for kittens to rescue for what felt like forever - every kitten we fell in love with was adopted by the time our application was marked as received. We are newly weds who just purchased a new home & couldn't wait to add to our growing family. We ended up adopting 2 adorable kittens from the same litter - brother and sister I saw photos of these rescued kittens from the Meriden humane society & my gut told me to call immediately and be persistent. I knew it was meant to be. The place is run strictly by volunteers & they were so wonderful and helpful - expediting my application & personally spending 20+ minutes speaking with me on the phone on the process & all the ways we can ensure our application is completed quickly. The kittens were living with a foster mama & papa (who were incredible). They raised such amazing, well-mannered, loving, polite, friendly, and snuggly kittens. I felt supported from the start & continue to feel supported as we transition. The kittens have transitioned so well. We truly feel like a family. read more

See all

Because of a picture I saw of a beautiful kitten on their page that was available for adoption I contacted them filled out my application and was approved. I went to see this kitten in Foster, it was the dirtiest house I've ever been in and stunk of cat. They told me the cat was about 6 months old he was much older and he was feral. He hissed and spit and when I tried to give him treats and pet him I ended up with a bloody mouth and a bloody nose. This is the kitten they told me that was just shy. I gave them the benefit of doubt because the people behind the desk can't always get to The fosters and asked about a different kitten. Made an appointment and the next day they canceled the appointment on me. I don't trust these people. read more

Working with MHS has been a joy! They have gone above and beyond in helping us adopt the most precious dog. They really care about placing animals in the correct home, not the home they can find the fastest. They were responsive to emails, calls and really did their due diligence in vetting us to make sure we would be a good fit. They are doing amazing work, transforming animals and finding them the perfect family. Our dog was not socialized as a puppy and MHS did wonders to help him break out of his shell and become more trusting. He is now just the most loving, sweet dog and is settling in to our home so well! read more

Please please do not use this shelter. Terrible customer service and my animal was turned in after someone found it and they just let the animal out in the street. Did not even care to look for the owners read more

Last year I started looking for a new friend for my dog Bruce. My cat just passed and I decided to donate all of her things to the Meriden Humane Society. While there I asked about their dogs and there was a dog name Nipsey who met most of the things I was looking for. He had spent 10 months with them and wanted to meet him. He was bigger than what I wanted for a 2nd dog, but he had a great personality. So I went forward and he and Bruce finally met. The staff let me take my time, we had several meet ups at MHS and my home. It was really great how I wasn't pushed into anything and was able to ease my mind about adopting another large dog. That was over a year ago, Nipsey, now named Archie has found his place at our home. He and Bruce have become brothers and are now inseparable. We still keep in contact with the staff and visit MHS to go on pack walks. The care and dedication the staff has for the animals in there care is amazing. read more

Meriden Humane Society - Archie - Animal Shelters Near Me - Meriden, Connecticut

See all

Very disappointing experience with this organization. My mother and I spend a lot of time at each other's homes. My children and I love and cherish her cats as much as she. We are close to her felines in the same way that she is to them because of how often we see them. My mother sadly lost her beloved male cat. My kids, mother and I were so torn up over it. We all decided as a family to help grandma locate another cat in need. The silver lining to the tragedy. I got on petfinder and started our search. I found a cat from this facility that strongly reminded us of our cat we lost. I read his description and he sounded lovely. It was stated that he would adjust in practically any home life with proper introductions. We applied for him that night and I wrote an email to this organization telling them the entire story of our recent loss and our interest in Kardi. I wanted to make sure we could adopt from them as we are in another state. The next day I got a call back and it was confirmed that they do adopt to approved homes to the state we reside. Yay! It could take up to 14 days, I was told. I informed them that my mother already submitted an application and we were told to communicate with her vet, allowing them to discuss my mother's vet care provided to her cats. My mother called her vet that day to allow permission. On day 7, we decided to reach out. We reaffirmed our interest and asked how we should expect to hear from them once the decision was made. No response. My mother called the following day and was told it is too early to know. On day 12, we called. Prior to the call I went on their facebook and was surprised to see a new posting of the cats that were still unadopted, Kardi being one of them. I called and was told they are still processing my mom's application and that, oh, by the way, looks like Kardi should be an only cat. He bullies the other cats, they said. I was surprised and mentioned that his ad on petfinder didn't state that. It was a new observation, they said, but they will call me back later once they find out the details of this observation. I decided, after speaking with my husband, that we should apply for him instead of my mother because we do not have other cats, and he would be showered with human affection without the bother of other cats. I called back, spoke with them about myself and my husband adopting him instead, and they said to go ahead and apply. I asked if they'd have any idea how long it would take to process my application because it would be nice to know what to expect, especially for the sake of my kids, who were aware of the application pending and excited about the prospect of Kardi. My children understood that this is a process and there's no guarantee that we'll receive the cat we want, but it would've been of great value to have a timeframe nonetheless. Unfortunately they wouldn't say. They said that they weren't in a position to say one way or the other how long it would take. After this call I revisited the facebook posting of all the cats still waiting for adoption. It specifically stated that the cats in that post had no special considerations and were ready for homes. This seemed odd, after having been told he couldn't live with other cats. I got a call an hour later and surprise, surprise, an approved adopter just showed up and chose Kardi, "so sorry". The whole ordeal was a little nauseating to me. We didn't go into applying for him thinking he was destined to be ours, just hopeful that he would be. I respect and understand the process, but there was something about the experience that did not seem forthcoming and didn't sit right with me. I was truly made to feel like we weren't ever really considered for him. I respect what rescues do. I respect that they aren't required to adopt out to anyone. I had hoped they'd have seen how much we wanted to be a home to this cat. We plan to reach out to our references to see if they had even bothered to call them. If they had had any reservations about us, I would hope they'd have said so, or at least they could of declined us the week prior while we held out for this cat. We had only reached out before 14 days to understand how we'd expect to hear from them and we didn't want to get lost as we were so interested in my mom or I being his adopter for the reasons stated above. I'm hoping we won't have any similar experiences in our quest to adopt a cat with other organizations. I doubt we'll have the same issues elsewhere. read more

Just got turn down to adopt a puppy because of poor records with vet. I would take my dogs to pet shop for shots at a better price and because I didn't keep them I was turn down. When I told them what I did as far as shots they didn't care one bit. Person on the phone was a matter of fact and didn't want to hear anything I had to say. And to think I donated to them. Meriden humane society sucks at read more

I made a yelp account just to inform people of the negative experience I had with this organization. I applied for a puppy through MHS and upon visiting, we were introduced to a different dog who has been at the shelter for awhile. They talked up this dog's great behavior and specifically mentioned that he was house-broken. We were convinced to adopt this dog in addition to the puppy based on what we were told. After getting approved for both dogs, we realized on our first night that the older dog was not house-broken and demonstrated poor behavior (biting, not following commands, chewing up pillows). Realizing that we now have a young puppy and a dog who both need a ton of work, we asked if we could return the older dog so that we could focus our attention on the younger pup and guarantee a safe living environment for her. The workers from the shelter responded by confiscating BOTH dogs, saying that we are unfit to take care of a puppy if we aren't willing to care for the older dog as well. They had no sympathy for our concerns about the older dog and talked to us as if we had no idea what we are talking about. For context, the last dog I owned was literally adopted from this organization and I had no issues tending to her. They simply misinformed us of what we were signing up for and then retaliated in the worst way possible when we tried to peacefully return one of the animals. Such a heartbreaking and cruel experience for us. read more

I have been volunteering at MHS for a little over six months and have to say that from what I'd previously heard about how the shelter was run it's done a complete 180. The staff is friendly and informative both the volunteers and paid folks. There is a lot of traffic while they're open on the weekends from 12-5 and while they do have weekday hours it's best to call if you're looking for a particular animal. The application process seems to be easy enough allowing for people to fill out an application online and be contacted. How can you go wrong with a place that's just looking to find homes for as many homeless pets as possible. read more

I wanted to adopt a kitten , did application and all and I waited for a call and when I did , the lady was very rude and the way she explained that the kittens were in foster homes was very unhearted. I have cats and I wanted to rescue 1 but it's like they didn't care. It's sad because that kitten would of been spoiled with the rest of my babies. It's easier to shop then adopt. read more

I had a very positive experience with my kitten adoption. I found the staff to be very caring about the animals well being and cautious about who they allow to adopt. I have a beautiful, sweet kitten. read more

I recently had to have my cat euthanized due to kidney failure. After 3 weeks I applied to adopt a cat from MHS. My references were excellent as I was told but I was denied the adoption due to a lack of veterinary care. My cat lived to be 18 years and 3 days old before being put down. I took excellent care of her. I was never informed of the denial, I had to call after not hearing from them. I am adopting a cat elsewhere. Hold your donations and give them to some other agency that cares. This one lacks professionalism and true animal well being and a loving future in a new home! read more

Although my review is not the happy ending you might expect I believe it is still relevant! My husband and I tried to adopt an Alaskan Malamute from MHS last year but it didn't work out because he had more issues than we were prepared to handle. That was on us! We were overconfident. Both Ryan and Sue had taken the time out to work with us on the adoption. They were awesome and even met with us after hours several times over a period of a month to acclimate the new addition to an existing three pack consisting of a Siberian and two Pomeranians. But due to food aggression issues, Ryan ended up taking our baby back with him and it worked out for him, us and our four-legged friend. I'm so glad he did! Our boy is happier with him. Upon our first visit, yes, the kennel smelled a little funky but one has to realize the amount of animals and funding available puts the facility at a disadvantage. I've been to several area facilities and kennels and most do have an unpleasant odor. It is the nature of these types of places. The people working there are not usually paid and do this through the kindness of their hearts to help these four legged friends find forever homes. This is usually after putting in 40 plus hours at their paid positions. Sue and Ryan spent a lot of extra time with us to give us an opportunity we might not have otherwise had. That said, I would go back and adopt another furbaby and I so look forward to and would highly recommend working with them. These people definitely care and if you give them enough time they would be more than willing to work with you as well! read more

I made arrangements in advance to do a meet and greet with my two dogs. There was a male and a female I was interested in. When we arrived I as told I could not have my dogs meet any of their animals because they don't know the history or health of my dogs. I assure you they are healthy and beautiful. I drove 45 minutes to adopt a pit bull. There is something wrong with this place. I think they collect animals not adopt them. I did adopt a very nice pit bull right next door, Meriden Animal Control. read more

Adopted my cat Abby from here and had a very good experience. They were clearly overwhelmed by the number of animals at the shelter but trying their best. Yes, as the other reviewer commented, it does smell a bit. When I went they had 90 cats and I don't know how many dogs, not sure what they expected it to smell like. I stayed for 4 hr the first day meeting all the cats, they were helpful and didn't make me feel rushed. Staff was friendly and gave pointers on recommended foods and where to buy pet essentials. I was debating between two cats and came back the next day with my final decision, they told me they would call in the meantime if anyone else was interested in those two. Overall very good experience but they were clearly overwhelmed by the numbers of pets - all the more reason to visit this place and maybe make an awesome home for an animal! read more

I am adopting two adorable chihuahua mixes from Meridien Humane Society, and, overall, I have nothing but good things to say. Of course, this is a volunteer organization, and the people who are giving of their time are selfless, kind and work hard to make the conditions as good as possible for the animals there. Not perfect, but there needs to be more money behind them to make things better in terms of the facility, etc. An infusion of donations and a healthier budget would certainly make it possible to make it an even better place for the dogs and cats they rescue and promote for adoption. In the meantime, the dogs and cats there have a warm, loving environment and good food, water, and what they need until finding a loving, permanent home. read more

I called to see about community service hours but the woman who answered the phone was incredibly rude and hurtful asking if it had to do with court and the fact that "they don't want those kind of people because their nothing but problems" if I could leave negative stars I would I've never been so insulted in my life read more

The people are rude, employees have ignored me on 3 occasions and twice walked right past me, I give 2 stars because I adopted my beautiful pittie there who I named ardie but if it wasn't for him this place would get no stars, the back where the dogs are kept is filthy and smells awful, the animal control officer is a nice guy or at least he was to me when I adopted my dog, employees smoke in the open so when customers walk in they walk through a smoke screen and even smokers don't want to walk through someone else's smoke screen. If any of you want a place to adopt look anywhere you can cause those animals need the homes but don't expect respect at this place read more

What a disappointment!!! I thought dogs needed homes but apparently not at this shelter. We walked in and stated that our home was very lonely without our beloved dog that recently passed. This lady decides to state "I work with the cats but, we only have four dogs in the back and they don't like children *pointing towards my 13 year old son*" I asked can we at least look at some? She said in an angry voice "Well, when you walk in they are going to start barking and all your going to do is agitate them, and you won't be able to adopt one because you have a child *as she is pointing towards my 13 year old son again*" Not long after, she proceeds to say you can look at this dog, as she points to a dog walking out the door with another family on a leash. I couldn't stand this lady, she couldn't even get us someone who worked with dogs, what a total joke. I had said nothing else and left with my family very discouraged and upset because we had driven 15 miles to see a dog and all we could see was a dog happily walking out the door with a family that would love her. read more

There are very few places that regard the animals in their care as family. This shelter is absolutely amazing! They not only care for the animals, but truly are devoted to their every need. , All to benefit the animals themselves. People can have their opinions, speak their minds, downgrade individuals etc . but the fact is their are no better people I would personally want to take care of societies homeless animals than these dedicated individuals. Unless you walk in their shoes for a day , a week, etc. You should not judge from someone else's review. But rather take the time to reach out and have a chat with one of the workers there. You just might learn a lot , you did not know. BTW did you know they assist veterans, seniors, special need individuals, homeless people???? Most likely not. Don't judge until you spend some time alongside them. I reached out, spent some time and found out what amazing people they truly are. And the animals, extremely well cared for! One would be happy to adopt from here. read more

Very poor experience. Marlena (owner) and some of the volunteers are EXTREMELY rude and bossy. When you go to volunteer you are going to help and they do not appreciate it at all. Also things at the Meriden humane society are very sketchy, Marlena and others there are doing things behind the scenes. For example when I volunteered there they were practically giving away cats. They were sending cats home after people walked in 20 minutes earlier, when cats had no shots or they were sick and they did NOT at all review applications. This organization is absolutely doing things behind the scenes and I do not recommend going here for your pets!! Or to volunteer! Overall WORST experience I have ever had with people who claim to "care about animals". read more

I just have a question, but there is no way to reach anybody. As I write, I am letting the phone ring, and it has been about 10 minutes and no one is picking up. Why isn't there a way to leave a message and ask for a return call? Their web page says they are presently open for business. What if I was looking to adopt. They would have lost my business. read more

Walking in, there is an awful smell. However, I did find a dog that we fell in love with. My husband & I filled out the 7 page application and were told we'd hear back within 7 days. Well over 7 days pass and still nothing, so we called. We called at various times during the day, left messages, never heard back from anyone. 2 weeks after applying, we made another visit to the Meriden Humane Society and saw the dog that we had applied for! Some volunteers let us take her for a walk and then we talked to the woman in charge (Marlene) who stated that there was a death in her family and she had processed all applications except for ours. But we shouldn't worry - they do really like us and just need to compare our application to others. She would review it that day and call us the next day. 2 more weeks have passed and still nothing. Still not answering our calls. I'm guessing the fact that we have full-time jobs is what is hindering our application as we have a large, fenced in yard and another dog to keep this one company. If you want a dog, either try animal control or just contact a breeder. I've been declined from other groups due to having a full-time job, but at least they got back to me! Have never had such an horrible experience with a supposedly rescue group. I'm finding it hard to believe that being alone in my house is worse than being stuck in a small cage for a month and counting... read more