About Us

For years, the Northern Neck faced a heartbreaking reality. More animals needed help than our small county shelters could handle. Stray, abandoned, and surrendered pets overwhelmed public facilities that were never designed for long-term care or rehabilitation. Operated by county animal control officers, these shelters worked with compassion but lacked the staff, space, and funding to save every life. Healthy, loving animals were being euthanized simply because there was nowhere else for them to go.

Across our four counties, the challenges were clear: limited outreach programs, few foster options, and high euthanasia rates, particularly in underfunded facilities. Families in crisis — facing eviction, domestic violence, or a move to assisted living — often had no choice but to surrender beloved pets, who then faced an uncertain fate. It was clear our region needed its first no-kill shelter.

Out of this urgent need, Northern Neck Partners for Pets (NNPP) was born. Organized in 2014 by a small group of concerned citizens, we became a determined nonprofit movement united by the belief that no animal should suffer or be forgotten. Our mission is simple but vital: to provide humane care, medical services, and adoption programs for homeless cats and dogs, while giving them the time and compassion they need to find a loving home.

For more than a decade, Founder Terrie Dort dedicated her time, energy, and vision to making this shelter a reality. She led countless fundraising efforts, rallied community support, and built connections with local advocates and organizations. Among those who stepped forward in a remarkable way was the Animal Welfare League of the Northern Neck (AWL). While not a formal partner, AWL contributed more than $300,000 over the years and continues to fund spay/neuter vouchers for all county shelters in our region, helping reduce overpopulation and improve the lives of countless pets.

On May 17, 2025, the dream became reality. We proudly opened the doors of the Northern Neck Partners for Pets Shelter and Adoption Center. Nestled on more than 35 peaceful acres in Lancaster County, our 4,500-square-foot facility provides a safe and healing space for approximately 20 dogs and 30 cats. Here, every animal receives loving care, veterinary attention, and the time they need to find their forever homes — no matter how long it takes.

This shelter is more than a building. It is proof of what a community can achieve when it comes together for a cause. It is a place of second chances, where wagging tails and gentle purrs signal the start of a brighter future.

Together, we have created more than a shelter. We have created hope.