A Brief History of our Shelter

In October of 1955, five DeLand residents banded together to do something about the stray animal situation. There was no Animal Control officer at that time.

On June 5, 1956, the State of Florida issued to the DeLand Humane Society a charter as a not-for-profit corporation. The purpose being the protection of all animals.

Mrs. Ruth Beadette was the first President. After a while Mrs. Beadette resigned, and the other members of the Board started a drive to raise money to build a shelter. Up to that time they were working with converted chicken coops. Stray animals were picked up, and no animals were refused.

Edith Sweetser became President. She announced that the County was willing to give the Society a 99 year lease on 3 acres of County owned land.

On September 26, 1958, ground was broken for the shelter. Together with Mrs. Sweetser, Sally Morrow turned the first shovel of dirt.

The dedication and formal opening of the new building took place on Sunday, December 14, 1958. On that day County Commissioner Stone presented a quick-claim deed for the 3 acres to Miss Sweetser.

At that time the shelter consisted of 12 kennels with outside runs, a room for cat cages with an enclosed play area for cats, and a room with storage space, and office, a dip tub and toilet facilities, 150 yards from the kennels were temporary cages for isolation.

During the first year of operation, 990 animals were handled.

In 1964, the DeLand Humane Society was deeded more acres by the County. In 1965, thanks to a bequeath from a member, an animal crematorium was installed.

In 1970, the DeLand Humane Society changed it's name to the West Volusia Humane Society. That name more clearly depicted its area of service. On August 5, 1970 the name change was officially recognized by the State of Florida.