Meet Us

Every life counts.

Our shelter animals are more than statistics; each one has a name and a story. Here’s how we’re doing:

Shelter statistics

Looking for more data? We have published our full 2022 shelter statistics and fiscal year 2021-22 statistics.

As part of our commitment to transparency, Marin Humane participates in the Shelter Animals Count project, a national database for shelter statistics. Please note that these numbers include owner-requested euthanasia, a compassionate and low-cost service we offer to the community.

Why doesn’t Marin Humane call itself “no-kill”?

While we could call ourselves “no-kill” based on our shelter statistics, we’ve chosen not to as we consider this label misleading and divisive.

We do not euthanize animals for space or based on how long they’ve been at the shelter. We only euthanize in cases where there is great suffering, or when dangerous behavior cannot be modified. This criteria is the same as most shelters who proclaim to be “no-kill.”

We make these decisions under strict protocols and only after all other options have been exhausted.

Euthanasia policy

All animals who can reasonably be adopted are placed in Marin Humane’s adoption program or through other rescue and placement organizations. Euthanasia decisions are taken very seriously at Marin Humane and require the consideration of many factors and resources, with the health and well-being of the animal always a priority.

When we’re compelled by the circumstances presented to make this decision, we consider each case individually including, but not limited to any behavioral issues that cannot be rehabilitated, any untreated medical conditions, and/or if the animal is in extreme pain or suffering. Marin Humane never euthanizes based on the state-mandated holding period and has no set time limit for how long animals reside with us. Our staff understands the importance of basing these decisions on reasonable efforts to provide for an animal’s well-being and having the information to support the euthanasia decision.

Alternative options will always be reasonably explored for the animals. And when the decision to proceed with euthanasia is made, we insist on providing the most humane treatment during the final moments of an animal’s life, regardless of the circumstances.