Humane Colorado

NEW NAME. SAME MISSION. BIGGER IMPACT!

The Dumb Friends League is now Humane Colorado!

The cat is out of the bag! The Dumb Friends League is now Humane Colorado.

You may be asking us, “Why the change?” We’re digging into our evolution.

• For 115 years, the Dumb Friends League – now Humane Colorado – has never wavered in our commitment to animals in need, but we have evolved. From expanding our shelter resources into the most in-need areas of Colorado to opening the Humane Colorado Veterinary Hospital at CSU Spur; increasing our capacity for care while providing humane education programming; ensuring Coloradoans maintain healthy relationships with their pets and advocating on the state level to improve the lives of animals, we meet the growing needs of our community so that animals across Colorado can thrive.

• We have long recognized the disconnect between our historic name and the communities we serve. Over the years, ongoing feedback from community members who felt our name was out of touch highlighted the obstacles we faced to reaching new adopters, volunteers, donors, and supporters.

• While “the Dumb Friends League” remains a beloved name by many Coloradoans with a connection to our programs and services, it has become increasingly outdated and insensitive. The word “dumb,” and the misconceptions regarding its meaning and intent made it difficult for some people to find, access, and connect with our good work. Potential supporters who were either confused or troubled by the name struggled to see us as a leading animal welfare organization they were inclined to support.

These barriers threatened our longstanding credibility, sustainability, and future impact, making the risks of not rebranding far too great.

Humane Colorado reflects our rich history, while also embodying our values, vision, and our mission. Whether through adoptions, advocacy and education, expanding access to veterinary care, or helping nurture and preserve loving connections, our goal is to break down barriers so that animals and people in our community thrive together.

“This evolution is a natural step forward for our organization, reflecting our continued dedication to improving the welfare of animals in our state and across the country.” – Humane Colorado President and CEO, Dr. Apryl Steele

Leading with Compassion

Becoming Humane Colorado strengthens our commitment to innovation, hope, and empathy as trusted leaders in animal welfare. Our energetic new brand represents the core of who we are collectively – a compassionate community committed to providing healing and connection for pets, horses, and people throughout Colorado – and that includes you! Our new tagline, “Leading with Compassion” builds on this legacy.

We are perpetually grateful to be a place where pets and families from all walks of life feel welcome, where the wonder of animals and the profound bonds we share with them are valued, and care and compassion for others never waver.