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Celebrating 70 years

of Strengthening the Bond Between Pets and People

For seven decades, we’ve been dedicated to improving the lives of animals in our community. Our mission is to provide compassionate care, shelter, and advocacy for animals, while also promoting responsible pet ownership through education and outreach.

Over the past 70 years, we’ve made incredible strides in animal welfare. We’ve helped thousands of animals find loving homes, provided low-cost spay/neuter services to reduce pet overpopulation, and offered humane education programs to inspire the next generation of animal advocates.

As we celebrate this milestone, we’re reminded of the countless lives that we’ve touched and the impact that we’ve made. We couldn’t have done it without the support of our community and our dedicated volunteers, staff, and board members.

Join us as we reflect on our past accomplishments and look forward to the next 70 years of making a difference in the lives of animals. Thank you for your continued support!

Our anniversary video highlights our achievements, milestones, and the dedicated individuals who have made our organization what it is today.

Download this commemorative history booklet that provides a short glimpse at our past and present.

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Then & Now A Timeline of Past to Present

Though the images have changed through the years, we see the common thread that connects them all – support and compassion from our volunteers, fosters, and donors. There is so much more to do, and with your continued support, we can achieve even greater things in the future.

1953

Peggy Kuster and 15 concerned citizens organized the Animal Protective Society of Vero Beach and acquired a 2,000 square foot building on Commerce Avenue.

1953

1969

Name changed to Humane Society of Vero Beach (HSVB).

1969

1980

The first issue of the Humane Times was published and distributed.

1980

1983

$500,000 was raised to build a 8,600 square foot shelter on 41st Street.

1983

1984

HSVB hosted it’s first “Cause for Paws” benefit.

1984

1992

The Humane Society Thrift Shop on 14th Avenue was run only by volunteers.

1992

2001

The Foundation Board was established to provide financial support.

2001

2003

Moved from the 41st Street shelter to the now 77th Street adoption, animal clinic and receiving building.

2003

2013

Bark in the Park was started by the Young Professionals group called the“Yuppie Puppies.”

2013

2018

The Adoption Mobile Unit was put into service to mobilize adoption events.

2018

2022

For three years in a row, HSVB has had a save rate of 90% or higher. 90% save rate is nationally recognized as “no-kill.”

2022