History of Stafford
About…..
History of Stafford Animal Shelter
- 1986: Humane Society of Park County founded
- 1999: Became Stafford Animal Shelter thanks to Frances Stafford
- 2009: New cat wing completed
- 2011: Dog wing enhanced and separate “Zoo” built
- 2012: Expansion building added for rescues/hoarding/evacuation cases
- 2016: Bon K9 Rescue Center opened
- June 2022: Facility destroyed by Yellowstone Flooding
- Jan 2023: Fully reopened after restoration and rebuild fundraising
Founded in 1986 by local animal advocates, the Humane Society of Park County began by placing displaced pets and promoting spay & neuter programs to reduce overpopulation. In 1999, a generous gift from Frances Stafford allowed us to build our 4,500-square-foot facility and become the Stafford Animal Shelter.
Over the years, we expanded to meet growing community needs, adding dedicated spaces for cats, dogs, rescues, and quarantine care — including the Bon K9 Rescue Center in 2016.
In June 2022, the Yellowstone flooding devastated our facility, nearly destroying the building. Thankfully, all staff and animals were safely evacuated. With no flood insurance, we rebuilt through the strength and generosity of our community and proudly reopened in January 2023 — resilient and ready to continue serving animals in need.
Questions? Give a call or stop on in.
Whether you’re thinking about adoption, Or just want more information — we’re here to help.
Stafford Animal Shelter
3 Business Park Road
Livingston, MT 59047
Hours:
Wednesday – Sunday
12:00 – 5:00 PM
*Animal introductions end at 4:30