Frequently Asked Questions

Is LCHS a non-profit organization?

Yes. We receive all of our funding from community donations, fundraising events, and foundation grants. We receive no local, state, or national funding.

Is LCHS associated with the Tallahassee Leon Community Animal Services Center (the City Shelter)?

No. TLCASC is Tallahassee’s city animal shelter. We are an independent organization with no city funding.

Does LCHS work with TLCASC and other animal organizations?

Absolutely. We have long-lasting relationships with TLCASC and other local animal shelters in the Big Bend and South Georgia areas (like those in Douglas-Coffee County, Wakulla, Jefferson, Thomasville, etc.) We transfer animals from these overcrowded shelters into our adoption program.

We have also created the Rescue Ride program, an innovative LCHS program that takes animals from overcrowded shelters in our area and transports them to humane societies in central Florida. These facilities are operating in communities where they do not have enough adoptable animals to meet the demand.

What does it mean to be a “no-kill shelter”?

We are a selective intake shelter, meaning we focus on saving as many adoptable animals as possible. We shelter an adoptable animal for as long as it takes to find him or her a permanent home. All animals who enter our shelter pass a medical and temperament test.

How many animals does LCHS save/adopt each year?

Between 300 and 500 animals are adopted every year.

What about spaying and neutering?

We sterilize every single animal before they leave us.

How long do animals usually stay in the LCHS Foster Program?

The average stay can vary quite a bit from animal to animal. Adult cats and dogs typically take longer to adopt than small dogs, popular/rare breeds and kittens.

How many animals does the City of Tallahassee euthanize?

The City Shelter euthanizes about 4,500 animals per year. Also keep in mind, they take in more than 10,000 animals a year.

Does LCHS have a paid staff?

Yes, we have 8 permanent and part-time employees—and more than 600 volunteers!

Where do your animals come from?

Transfers from other shelters.

Do local veterinarians help you?

Yes! We have long-standing relationships with many of the veterinarians in our area. In fact, all of the vet care for the animals in our program is provided by Tallahassee vets.

Do you accept ANY pets from the public into your adoption program?

Unfortunately, we cannot take animals in from the public. We only take animals from local shelters and rescues in our area.