West Milford Animal Shelter Society

West Milford Animal Shelter Society The West Milford Animal Shelter Society, Inc. (WMASS) is a 100% volunteer organization and IRS recognized 501(c)(3) non-profit organization. Happy Tails!
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West Milford Animal Shelter Society (WMASS) is a non-profit humane org, our purpose is to help the homeless animals who enter our door and promote through direct action & education, the welfare of companion animals. It was formed in 1976 out of a desperate need to establish an adoption program at the West Milford Animal Shelter, a municipal facility. Many cats and dogs arrive annually, seeking she

lter, love, attention, and veterinary care from the WMASS. The WMASS also shelters other domestic animals, including rabbits, guinea pigs, ferrets, chinchillas, and birds, as well as injured or orphaned, young wildlife. At any point in time, the shelter houses between 50-100 cats/kittens and about 12 dogs. Volunteers are always needed! Just a few hours a week can make a huge difference in the lives of these homeless animals. Volunteers donate a lot of time and effort. It’s hard work...but the rewards of getting a lot of bright eyes, love and happy tails make it all worthwhile. The shelter is open Monday - Friday 10:00 am - 1:00 pm, Wednesday evening 7:30 - 9:00 pm and Saturday/Sunday 10:00 am - 3:00 pm. They can be reached at 973-728-2859.

This past fall, we had 14 cats come to us from a neglectful home. They all lacked socialization and were fearful of huma...
04/08/2025

This past fall, we had 14 cats come to us from a neglectful home. They all lacked socialization and were fearful of humans. Every day our volunteers continue to work on building trust with them, and they have made excellent progress.

Last weekend, a couple stopped by after seeing this gentleman in the newspaper. They thought he was adorable, and they already had one cat at home who he could be friends with. They were drawn to his unique look, and they were ready to give him all the time and space he needed to open up. We were ecstatic to hear that someone finally saw what we did all along; a sweet boy who just needed some love and compassion.

Wally… ADOPTED!

Put your paws together for our one-eyed Wally, everyone! His brothers and sisters back at the shelter are so proud of him for finding his people, and we know he is beyond deserving. After almost nine years on this earth, Wally has found a true home.

Good afternoon from Gypsy!Gypsy is a quiet kitty who loves the sounds of nature. She could spend all day out on the cati...
04/08/2025

Good afternoon from Gypsy!

Gypsy is a quiet kitty who loves the sounds of nature. She could spend all day out on the catio, listening to the birds chirping and the trees blowing in the wind.

She is 10 years old and a simple, low-maintenance girl. She is easily content and would love nothing more than a home where she can perch at the window and observe the neighborhood. Gypsy loves to chase bugs and any little critters that make their way into the Middle Cattery, and she is fascinated by ladybugs.

Gypsy has coexisted well with numerous roommates, but she would be just as happy as a solo cat in a home. Come visit this beautiful girl!

Learn more about Gypsy on PetFinder ↓
https://www.petfinder.com/cat/gypsy-70530547/nj/west-milford/west-milford-animal-shelter-nj13/

Lenny here, doing a little ruff housing with a volunteer. We’re not sure who’s having more fun. This husky mix is sweet ...
04/08/2025

Lenny here, doing a little ruff housing with a volunteer. We’re not sure who’s having more fun. This husky mix is sweet and playful. He also loves toys and to play fetch. Lenny is approximately 2–3 years old and he has been in the shelter system for over a year. But that has not gotten him down, he has a lovely personality. As a very strong & large boy, if you have kids, they need to be teenagers if you’re interested in adopting him. When Lenny sees a rabbit or other small animal out on a walk… You better hold on tight….he has that prey drive! He may do OK with another dog, they would need two meetings at the shelter. But we don’t know how he is with cats. Possibly not well since he wants to go after small critters…

Call the shelter at 973-728-2859
or stop by during open hours:
M-F: 10A - 1P
Also Wed. Eve hours: 730P to 9P
S-S: 10A-3P

A star is born! what a transformation from when Ayce came into the shelter a week ago to now! We whole-heartedly thank ...
04/06/2025

A star is born! what a transformation from when Ayce came into the shelter a week ago to now! We whole-heartedly thank Stonehill Estates Kennel,llc for giving Ayce his new clean, shaved look. Donna, Judy, Jessica (pictured) did a fantastic job fixing him up. Ayce was a good boy for them. Spa day for a Spunky puppy: bath, nails trimmed & grooming. This little nugget is 7 years old *on medical hold to be neutered* PLEASE call the shelter before coming to meet him in case he's at the vet. He is ENERGETIC, don't let his small size fool you, he needs to move, jiggle, run, play daily... Are you right for him? He can be adopted to a family with kids 6+ who are respectful of pups needs. He can be your hiking partner, may even enjoy dog sports... **He is On MEDICAL HOLD this week**

Please remember all animals need time to decompress when adopted, which gives you time to get to know their true personality. Let them chill the first couple days, and treat them as they need to be treated.
West Milford Animal Shelter Society
Lycosky Drive
West Milford, NJ 07480
Phone: 973-728-2859 ---> call to make sure he's avail. to see
Shelter Hours:
• Mon - Fri: 10am to 1pm
• Wed Eve: 7:30pm to 9pm
• Sat - Sun: 10am to 3pm
PETFINDER LINK for more info:
https://www.petfinder.com/dog/ayce-ace-75912169/nj/west-milford/west-milford-animal-shelter-nj13/

This is our new friend, Checkers!Checkers is 10 years old and previously lived in a feral colony. He was a TNR (trap-neu...
04/06/2025

This is our new friend, Checkers!

Checkers is 10 years old and previously lived in a feral colony. He was a TNR (trap-neuter-return) when he was young, and he had a wonderful community caring for him as he grew up. TNR refers to the process where a feral cat is humanely trapped, sterilized and vaccinated, and then returned to where they were found. It helps prevent the growth of feral cat populations and improves their health and wellbeing. However, when Checkers was recently trapped to receive updated vetting, it became clear he was no longer suited for the outdoors. He had developed cataracts as he aged, and they resulted in him going blind.

Over the years, Checkers has mellowed out and become very fond of humans. He has settled in well to his new indoor environment and is so gentle and sweet. He is excited for breakfast every morning, and sometimes he has more than two helpings! He likes to relax on soft blankets and bedding, and he has never looked more comfortable. Checkers always perks up when he smells a treat coming his way, and we make sure to pamper him with plenty of love and affection.

It has not been easy for Checkers to lose his sight, but we know there is a special person out there who can accommodate his needs. He benefits greatly from a consistent routine and familiar environment. He lived with other cats in his colony, so we are under the impression he would be okay with other cats in a home. After being slowly approached, he loves petting and will purr. He has an old soul and deserves nothing more than a safe and loving home for the rest of his senior years.

Learn more about TNR ↓
https://www.alleycat.org/our-work/trap-neuter-return/

Onyx says hello!While April showers bring May flowers, he has not been a fan of the rain lately. He loves the sun and wo...
04/06/2025

Onyx says hello!

While April showers bring May flowers, he has not been a fan of the rain lately. He loves the sun and would do anything to get a good sunbathing session in! His favorite spot on warm days is the windowsill in the lobby; that’s where all the sunshine comes through.

Onyx is our office cat and is as mellow as they come. He greets us by rubbing up against our legs, and in return, we pick him up for a hug! He turns 10 in June and would be great in a home with other cats. He is very affectionate and has been waiting for his new family to walk in through the door.

Learn more about Onyx on PetFinder ↓
https://www.petfinder.com/cat/onyx-74913008/nj/west-milford/west-milford-animal-shelter-nj13/

Look at Miles standing nice and tall!He has such unique markings, and this is our first time seeing them on display. Mil...
04/05/2025

Look at Miles standing nice and tall!

He has such unique markings, and this is our first time seeing them on display. Miles usually stays tucked in a ball, often afraid and unsure of the humans nearby. However, he has become more curious lately, and will now walk around in front of us. This is a very big step for him!

It has been such a gift to watch Miles become more comfortable. We know he will flourish in a home, especially one with other cats. If you’d like to visit him, tomorrow we will be open from 10am to 3pm! Even if you are not interested in adopting, he would benefit from some company.

Learn more about Miles on PetFinder ↓
https://www.petfinder.com/cat/miles-73668644/nj/west-milford/west-milford-animal-shelter-nj13/

Nice surprise when we get an update from an adopted cat or dog…From Moon’s mama: “After a morning running and playing fo...
04/05/2025

Nice surprise when we get an update from an adopted cat or dog…
From Moon’s mama: “After a morning running and playing for an hour at the Vernon dogpark, then breakfast on the deck with another hour of chilling, little Moonbeam has FALLEN ASLEEP next to me on the couch while I am watching the movie Willow. This is a first and a big thing!
Moon has been on high alert outside and inside the condo. Even at night I hear her wake up while we are all sleeping. I think she is finally feeling safe and secure. You should see her ‘herding’ the other dogs. She would be a great stock dog.”

Fabulous news! We totally get that adopted pet needs time to decompress, get used to their new routine, feel loved and secure and confident. Sounds like Moonbeam is there!!
Thank you to Moonbeam’s mama for adopting her 💜

Heeeeello big fella ~ where did you come from? So Lenny came to us from another over crowded shelter where he was living...
04/04/2025

Heeeeello big fella ~ where did you come from? So Lenny came to us from another over crowded shelter where he was living for some time being over looked. His eyes are dreamy - whether you love brown eyes or blue -- he has you covered! Yes he has one of each!! Lenny is approx 3-4 yrs old, neutered, up to date on vax and a lot of fun. Are you a HUSKY lover! Do you know someone who is! Lenny's ready for his happy home. Most likely all the info you need to get the ball rolling to meet Lenny is a click away in this PETFINDER link. OR just stop in during our open hours....
https://www.petfinder.com/dog/lenny-75908748/nj/west-milford/west-milford-animal-shelter-nj13/

Please remember ALL dogs and cats when adopted need time to decompress, which gives you time to get to know their true personality...and treat them as they need to be treated.
West Milford Animal Shelter Society
Lycosky Drive
West Milford, NJ 07480
Phone: 973-728-2859
Shelter Hours:
• Mon - Fri: 10am to 1pm
• Wed Eve: 7:30pm to 9pm
• Sat - Sun: 10am to 3pm

04/04/2025

Yes! This boy! It will be hard to find a companion as great as this guy- he’s probably right for you and you don’t even know it …. Yet.  make an appointment to meet him!!

We had a new volunteer start with us in December. Just a month prior, a beautiful gray cat was surrendered to us. She wa...
04/03/2025

We had a new volunteer start with us in December. Just a month prior, a beautiful gray cat was surrendered to us. She was originally adopted from us in 2016, but was left behind when her owners moved.

People would come to visit her, but often picked a younger or more outgoing cat instead. She turned 10 with us, and for the first time, she did not have a family to celebrate with.

Our new volunteer frequently cleaned the cattery this sweet girl resided in, and in February, she went through the heartbreak of losing her own cat. As the weeks passed, she still had yet to find a home, and hers was feeling empty. They grew closer, and she decided to welcome her in with open arms.

Roxanne… ADOPTED!

Put your paws together for Roxanne, everyone! After 142 days, she has finally found her forever home. Her new mom will not only be celebrating her on her future birthdays, but every day going forward!

It’s nap time in the Big Cattery!How many cats can you count in this picture? We have Bitsy, TomTom, Silas, Stan, Miles,...
04/03/2025

It’s nap time in the Big Cattery!

How many cats can you count in this picture? We have Bitsy, TomTom, Silas, Stan, Miles, and then Sylvester underneath the blanket!

We call this “the cuddle puddle”. Every day we have a group that snuggles together here! Tomorrow we open at 10am, and they would love some company.

Meet Reeses!Reeses is our new friend who came to us due to allergies in the home. He is 4 years old and at one point liv...
04/02/2025

Meet Reeses!

Reeses is our new friend who came to us due to allergies in the home. He is 4 years old and at one point lived with multiple other cats, so we are under the impression he would do well in a household with some friends. He loves humans as well, and he can never get enough pets!

His favorite thing to do is show off his belly, along with his multi-colored toes. He will roll around in his cage and go from side to side. It is like he cannot contain his excitement! Do not think you can simply keep him company without petting him, because he will head butt you until he receives your affection.

Reeses is a lovebug; he is really a total mush. He is always so happy to be around people. Not to mention, he is strikingly handsome! The white streak on his nose, his big green eyes, the fluff at the tips of his ears… we could go on. He is truly irresistible. He would adore any visitors and be so appreciative if anyone took time out of their day to see him.

Happy April from Miles!Whoever picked out that blanket must have had him in mind; it matches his eyes perfectly. He is o...
04/01/2025

Happy April from Miles!

Whoever picked out that blanket must have had him in mind; it matches his eyes perfectly. He is our gray and white tuxedo, and he looks very handsome in his suit!

Miles turns 9 later this month and has been with us since October 2024. He has been opening up more, and we have learned that he is very playful when the shelter is quiet. He loves plush mice, and every morning we find the ones that he pawed under the shelves overnight.

It would mean a lot for Miles to find a home with another cat he can bond with. He feels the most safe with company, and we know he will thrive with a friend. Feel free to come visit him today, we open at 10am!

Learn more about Miles on PetFinder ↓
https://www.petfinder.com/cat/miles-73668644/nj/west-milford/west-milford-animal-shelter-nj13/

03/31/2025

Lucky Camden getting exercise at Canine Cooperative (CC) where he is being fostered. What a gorgeous big boy…. He deserves a great home, getting exercise, snuggling on the couch, being a loved dog. Camden is approximately 3 years young, active and in great shape. If you have interest or know someone who might be interested to meet this handsome American bulldog, send them to the WM Animal Shelter. Fill out an adoption form and we’ll get the ball rolling with CC for meeting him.
973-728-2859 📞
Hours:
M-F: 10a-1p
Wed Eve hrs too: 7:30p-9p
S-S: 10a-3p

Goldie has overcome a difficult past and is now ready for a fresh start. She is 9 years old and was rescued from a house...
03/30/2025

Goldie has overcome a difficult past and is now ready for a fresh start. She is 9 years old and was rescued from a house where she and numerous other cats were being neglected. She is still learning to trust people, but she shows a lot of curiosity. She has even taken an interest in toys, especially those with catnip!

We recently moved Goldie into our Big Cattery with eleven other cats, all of whom she came in with. She has found comfort in their company and is more at ease with her friends! Goldie is understandably cautious, but we are confident she will open up in due time. She has faced lots of change and unfamiliarity, but she continues to keep her head high and her paws forward.

To calm her nerves, we speak to her softly and reassure her that she is safe. We believe that in a quiet home with other cats, her personality will emerge and she will settle in well. She may take time to adjust, but her progress will be incredibly rewarding. Goldie is looking forward to meeting her new family!

Address

PO BOX 72 Lycosky Drive
West Milford, NJ
07480

Opening Hours

Monday 10am - 1pm
Tuesday 10am - 1pm
Wednesday 10am - 1pm
7:30pm - 9pm
Thursday 10am - 1pm
Friday 10am - 1pm
Saturday 10am - 3pm
Sunday 10am - 3pm

Website

https://www.petfinder.com/member/us/nj/west-milford/west-milford-animal-shelte

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Videos

Lucky Camden getting exercise at Canine Cooperative (CC) where he is being fostered. What a gorgeous big boy…. He deserves a great home, getting exercise, snuggling on the couch, being a loved dog. Camden is approximately 3 years young, active and in great shape. If you have interest or know someone who might be interested to meet this handsome American bulldog, send them to the WM Animal Shelter. Fill out an adoption form and we’ll get the ball rolling with CC for meeting him. 973-728-2859 📞 Hours: M-F: 10a-1p Wed Eve hrs too: 7:30p-9p S-S: 10a-3p

Our goofy Camden enjoying the spring day! He’s being fostered with Canine Cooperative, learning the ropes to be somebody’s best friend for life. Click this Petfinder link to learn more about him. 👇🏼 Stop by Sunday between 10AM and 3PM, fill out an application and make an appointment to meet this great dog! If you come early enough, you probably could see him the same day https://www.petfinder.com/dog/camden-72219255/nj/west-milford/west-milford-animal-shelter-nj13/ Call ahead if necessary, 973-728-2859 📞

Xena and Moon having fun with each other! No words needed… 🥰😁 just the girls playing….stop in to meet these beauties. Petfinder link will bring you to our adaptable dogs: https://www.petfinder.com/search/dogs-for-adoption/?shelter_id%5B0%5D=NJ13&sort%5B0%5D=recently_added 973-728-2859 📞

Scooter is being kept entertained at Loving Care Vets office in town! He’s obviously a great candidate to live in a home with another pup! Very fun to watch their happy play! Scooter is approximately eight years young with a beautiful chocolate coat. We’ve been informed he’s a mix between a lab and dachshund. His eyes are very sweet and you will quickly see the warmth in them. Any interest in meeting Scooter? Please stop at the shelter to fill out the application and we’ll get an appointment made for you to spend time with him. Click link👇🏼for more info or phone us: 973-728-2859 https://www.petfinder.com/dog/scooter-75087439/nj/west-milford/west-milford-animal-shelter-nj13

Her first words! Bitsy’s begun to use her voice and has been meowing to us this week. We’ve never heard her speak before. They’re faint and small meows, almost like whispers or little squeaks. It’s so sweet. We are so proud of her! We always talk back and continue the conversation with her. Bitsy on PetFinder ↓ https://www.petfinder.com/cat/bitsy-73668693/nj/west-milford/west-milford-animal-shelter-nj13/

Ohhhhh Scooter! 😹😂🐾 lovin’ some snow! https://www.petfinder.com/dog/scooter-75087439/nj/west-milford/west-milford-animal-shelter-nj13/

Moon can catch!
Moon can catch!

Moon will have fun inside too! She loves the snow but in the cold 🥶 evenings, sometimes the volunteers don’t want to hang outside too long… so Moon has no problem playing inside! She always has a smile. This pup at approx. 4 y/o is looking for a new home without cats. She’ll do ok with another dog. Bring your pup for a meet-n- greet!! Call 📞 973-728-2859 or See more info clicking on the PetFinder link: 👇🏼 https://www.petfinder.com/dog/moon-74837374/nj/west-milford/west-milford-animal-shelter-nj13/

Scooter is being kept busy while he’s fostered at Loving Care Veterinarian Hospital in West Milford. If you think he may be right for your family, please click on the Petfinder link for more information.👇🏼 www.petfinder.com/dog/scooter-75087439/nj/west-milford/west-milford-animal-shelter-nj13/

So many songs about the Moon! 🌙 🌖 🌕 Fly Me To The Moon! Bad Moon Rising! Bark at the Moon! The Dark Side of the Moon! Oh, the list is endless- one thing we can say about our girl named Moon is that she won’t last. We bet she’ll be adopted before we have our next full moon! She’s approximately four years young, okay with kids 10+ years old and other dogs. Definitely not cats, she does like herding. This pup would love an active home to call her own. We are open this evening (Wednesday) from 7:30pm to 9pm, and every day we open at 10am. M-F 10am-1pm Wed Eve 7:30pm-9pm S-S 10am-3pm

Moon is on the rise in popularity! She’s running circles around the volunteers! 😂 Moon 🌕 is about 4 years old and an Australian Shepherd/Heeler/Cattle dog mix. She’s a regal and friendly girl loving the snow! Moon was released to us mid-January as she did not get along with the cats in the home (she was fixated on them) being the herding dog she is! Her owner told us she does fine with other dogs and children. Moon can be adopted into a house with kids 8+ years of age. West Milford Animal Shelter Society Lycosky Drive West Milford, NJ 07480 Phone: 973-728-2859 Shelter Hours: • Mon - Fri: 10am to 1pm • Wed Eve: 7:30pm to 9pm • Sat - Sun: 10am to 3pm

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Our Story

The West Milford Animal Shelter Society, Inc. (WMASS) is a 100% volunteer organization and IRS recognized 501(c)(3) non-profit organization. It was formed in 1976 out of a desperate need to establish an adoption program at the West Milford Animal Shelter, a municipal facility. About 500 cats and 200 dogs arrive annually, seeking shelter, love, attention, and veterinary care from the WMASS. The WMASS also shelters other domestic animals, including rabbits, guinea pigs, ferrets, chinchillas, and birds, as well as injured or orphaned, young wildlife. At any point in time, the shelter houses between 50-100 cats/kittens and about 12 dogs. Volunteers are always needed! Just a few hours a week can make a huge difference in the lives of these homeless animals. Volunteers donate a lot of time and effort. It’s hard work...but the rewards of getting a lot of bright eyes, love and happy endings makes it all worthwhile. The shelter is open Monday - Friday 10:00 am - 1:00 pm, Wednesday evening 7:30 - 9:00 pm and Saturday/Sunday 10:00 am - 3:00 pm. They can be reached at 973-728-2859. Happy Tails!