In 1989, a group of residents in Sydenham Township launched an initiative to create a shelter to care for local dogs and cats while facilitating their adoption into new suitable caring homes. By 2003, they had raised $300,000 and with a private mortgage of $40,000 began the construction of the building on five acres of land donated by local farmer Ed Tottenham. Originally incorporated in August 2006 as the Grey Bruce Humane Society, the group was debt free in January 2007 when the name was officially changed to The Grey Bruce Animal Shelter and became an independent volunteer run, no kill registered charity surrender shelter. In May 2010 an outdoor utility shed was constructed by the firefighters of the Order of Good Cheer. ​Today, this charitable organization, which serves the residents of Grey and Bruce counties, is volunteer based and funded by adoption fees, private donations and fundraising. The shelter can house a maximum of 10 surrendered or rescued dogs, obtained mainly from Grey and Bruce Counties. In 2023, new homes were found for a total of 49 dogs and puppies and 120 cats and kittens. Our success in serving the needs of Grey/Bruce residents has placed added pressure and demands on our magnificent volunteers who are the backbone of GBAS. In order to manage our volunteers and provide consistent care for our pets, we have three part time Shelter Managers who will provide 7 day a week morning and evening coverage and care for our animals. The Shelter has an elected board of up to 11 directors and is maintained and operated by volunteers. Funding comes from donations, fundraising events and adoption fees. We receive no government financial support. Please HELP us HELP our animals by donating financial aid, goods, labour and time.