Humane Colorado Provides Safe Haven for Dogs Displaced by Kentucky Storm

Dogs displaced by devastating Kentucky storm find safety – and soon, new homes – in Colorado.

Denver, Col. – May 20, 2025 – Humane Colorado (formerly the Dumb Friends League) has welcomed 8 dogs impacted by the devastating April 2nd storm that tore the roof off of the Hopkins County Humane Society in Madisonville, Kentucky. The transport was made possible through a collaborative effort with the ASPCA® (The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals®), which provided relocation of the dogs at the request of Humane Colorado, and the Humane Society of the Pikes Peak Region, which will also care for several of the dogs.

The storm caused significant damage to the Hopkins County shelter. Despite the destruction, all animals were safely evacuated, thanks to the quick actions of shelter staff and volunteers. At this time, the shelter remains closed to all intakes as they continue to repair the damage done to the facility. Providing a safe place for these dogs to go while the shelter rebuilds was identified as the help needed from Humane Colorado.

“When we heard about the devastating damage to the Hopkins County shelter, we knew we had to help as they rebuild and continue to support their community,” said Mary Sarah Fairweather, Vice President of Sheltering at Humane Colorado. “Our mission is to end pet homelessness and animal suffering – and that doesn’t stop at state lines. This was a clear opportunity to step up, offer support to a shelter in crisis, and help ensure these dogs continue on their journey to safe, loving homes.”

The ASPCA regularly partners with these Colorado destination shelters and were happy to coordinate the additional transport of the dogs to Colorado. Upon arrival the dogs were divided between Humane Colorado and the Humane Society of the Pikes Peak Region (HSPPR), where they are receiving medical evaluations, behavioral assessments, and plenty of love.

“At Humane Society of the Pikes Peak Region, we’re honored to support fellow animal welfare organizations during such a difficult time,” said Kelley Likes, President & CEO of Humane Society of the Pikes Peak Region. “Natural disasters can have a profound impact on both people and pets, and we’re grateful for the opportunity to step in and help however we can.”

“When Humane Colorado reached out to request our assistance with this special transport from Hopkins County Humane Society, we were happy to help them support another shelter in need, says Karen Walsh, Senior Director of Animal Relocation for the ASPCA. “With this transport, these dogs will have a second chance at finding loving homes to recover and rebuild after devastating flooding.”

The dogs will be available for adoption in the coming weeks. Prospective adopters can visit HumaneColorado.org or HSPPR.org for more information.

This rescue operation underscores the importance of collaboration in times of crisis. Humane Colorado extends its gratitude to the ASPCA, the Humane Society of the Pikes Peak Region, and all staff and volunteers who made this mission possible.

About Humane Colorado

Humane Colorado, formerly the Dumb Friends League, is a 115-year-old, independent nonprofit working to end pet homelessness and animal suffering across Colorado. Each year, the organization provides shelter, veterinary care, and critical services to more than 47,000 homeless pets and horses. Humane Colorado’s mission extends beyond shelter walls – focusing on life-saving services, connecting families with homeless animals, and addressing barriers to pet ownership.

The organization operates independently and is not affiliated with Humane World for Animals (formerly the Humane Society of the United States). Learn more about at humanecolorado.org and follow along on social media.

About the Humane Society of the Pikes Peak Region (HSPPR)

Humane Society of the Pikes Peak Region is the largest nonprofit animal shelter in southern Colorado. Serving over 25,000 animals a year, HSPPR provides adoption options, animal cruelty investigations, subsidized spay/neuters, a Trap-Neuter-Return program for feral cats, and other important services. Its Bite Blotter is used to track the quantity, severity, victim types, and locations of domestic animal bites to create a safer and more informed community. Rated four stars by Charity Navigator, HSPPR is a local, independent nonprofit that relies on donations from the community to fund its many humane programs. For more information, visit www.hsppr.org.