Caroline County Humane Society is a 501 (c)3 non-profit organization

Contracted by the government of Caroline County, Maryland to manage, operate and run the county shelter and to provide humane services for the animals in our county. CCHS is an “Open Door, Open Heart” open admission shelter.

In 1987, an initial attempt was made to organize a local humane society in Caroline County. While this attempt did not succeed, those same dedicated volunteers were not deterred. They began anew and in 1994 CCHS was firmly established in memory of Christina Blades-Fleetwood. Truly a grass-roots organization, early meetings were held in the court house in Denton. Animals in need were housed wherever space could be found and adoptable animals lived in volunteer homes until a new home could be found. Cruelty investigations were carried out in volunteer vehicles and the CCHS telephone was installed in a board member’s home.

In 1995, we expanded our vision with the dream of constructing a new shelter. In 1996, we applied for and received our 501c3 non-profit status. In 1998, we worked with the County to create the first ever Animal Control Ordinance in Caroline County. In 2000, thanks to a grant and loan from the USDA, the shelter in Ridgely became reality. Our contract with the county grew to include the enforcement of the County animal control ordinance, the operation of the newly built shelter, and providing Humane Services in Caroline County.

We care for approximately 1500 abandoned, neglected, abused and homeless animals every single year. We maintain an active adoption and rescue program. 



The Caroline County Humane Society takes quiet pride in how far we have come. Through dedication, commitment and our love for the animals, we have made a difference; a difference not only in the lives of thousands of animals who were given a second chance, but in our community and in the lives of the citizens of our county that we serve. From our humble beginnings 30 years ago, we are proud to be called “the little shelter that could”.