HSSW to Acquire Humane Society of Cowlitz County

Vancouver, WA (October 21, 2024) – 

The Humane Society for Southwest Washington (HSSW) has announced it intends to acquire the Humane Society of Cowlitz County (HSCC). The acquisition would result in HSSW expanding its operation to two campuses (Vancouver and Longview) serving both Clark and Cowlitz counties. The HSSW Executive and Leadership teams would oversee operations at both campuses. 

In early 2024, HSCC leadership initiated a conversation with HSSW about the best path forward for animal welfare in Cowlitz County. Through ongoing discussions between HSCC and HSSW, both boards unanimously agreed to move forward with exploring the acquisition. 

“The HSCC board sees this as the best opportunity to provide the support our community needs,” says Cindy Nordstrom, HSCC Board President. “We can tap into the resources and strengths of their organization and do even more for pets in need." 

HSSW and HSCC are longtime animal welfare partners. Over many years, they have collaborated as transport partners, coordinated adoption events, and worked together to advance animal welfare efforts throughout the region.  

“This is an exciting moment for both organizations,” says Matt Ableidinger, HSSW Board Chair. “It’s an opportunity for us to invest in the future of animal welfare in Southwest Washington.” 

The expansion would allow HSSW to operate at an economy of scale, providing a seamless and consistent network of accessible services and programs for pets and people in Clark and Cowlitz Counties. 

“We are proud of our more than 125-year history in animal welfare and our long partnership with HSCC,” says Andrea Bruno, HSSW President. “This is an exciting opportunity to provide more support for pets and families in our community and expand our work to make Southwest Washington safer, healthier, and happier for people and pets. 

HSSW would assume operations of the Longview shelter January, 2025 and the integration would continue for several months. HSSW plans to provide updates to the public through their newsletter, website, and social media.

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