A voice for those who cannot speak
Donate to Fester’s Care
When Fester first came to us, it was clear that he had endured difficult times. His health was compromised, and he required immediate veterinary care to address multiple concerns. It was a critical moment for us to step in and provide the support he desperately needed.
Fester has made astounding progress since he began his recovery journey. His resilience is truly inspiring:
Improved Health: His overall health has significantly improved with each passing week.
Increased Energy: Fester is more active and playful, a testament to his growing strength.
While Fester has come a long way, there is still a journey ahead. Continued care and support will be crucial for his full recovery. We remain committed to providing everything he needs to thrive and live a happy, healthy life.
Fester's story is a testament to the power of compassion and the incredible resilience of animals. With ongoing care and love, we are confident that Fester will continue to make strides towards a brighter future. His journey reminds us of the importance of giving every animal the chance to heal and find joy in life.
Our Location
MVAS is located in the Mission Valley of Western Montana and is the only brick n mortar animal sheltering facility between Missoula and Kalispell. Sitting between Polson and Pablo, MVAS serves animals from throughout Lake County, much of which overlaps the Flathead Indian Reservation. Lake County is one of the few Montana counties with no animal control ordinances other than a vicious dog ordinance. This, combined with the higher prevalence of stray and un-sterilized animals on reservation lands, poses a unique challenge and most stray animals end up at MVAS.
Please feel free to stop by our facility at any time and visit the dogs and cats who are eagerly anticipating your arrival! Learn how much joy a pet can bring into your life!
Our Facility
The facility has 11 inside dog kennels (including 8 main kennels and three isolation/quarantine kennels), 4 puppy and/or small dog kennels, 18 outdoor dog runs, 1 outdoor isolation kennel and 4 separated fenced yards for dogs. The facility includes a nearly half acre yard surrounded by 900 feet of 8 foot tall fencing to ensure security and provide room for animals to exercise and run.
The shelter offers a large adult cat room and a separate smaller kitten room where cats and kittens can freely roam and socialize. Additionally, there is a cat isolation room with 9 cages where new or ailing cats and kittens are observed prior to joining the general population.
Our History
MVAS was organized in 1989, opened as temporary facility in 1992 and moved to our permanent location in 1994.
During 2000 we raised money for an expansion of our shelter, which was completed in 2001. A further expansion was added in 2010 without incurring any debt.
In 2018 MVAS embarked upon yet another expansion, which was completed in 2019. This expansion added 4 puppy and/or small dog kennels, and five additional fenced-in outdoor runs, as well as a new washroom.
In 2021, we started a Doggy Play yard Campaign to raise money for some new dog yards. In 2022 the construction was completed, and we know have 4 outdoor dog yards for our fabulous furry friends to enjoy. It is in the works for 2023 to install some doggy play equipment into one of the new yards for some good ol' doggy fun!
In 2022, we also were able to place a new roof system over the outdoor kennels in our East Yard and enclose the kennels in our West Yard on three sides. Now our doggos have some serious protection against the Montana weather. This was all possible thanks to the help of some amazing donors!
In 2023, we will also be working on getting three doggy doors with outside dog kennels set up for our iso dogs so these dogs will be able to go in and out while they await access to our dog yards.
Adoption
We work to match cats & kittens, dogs & puppies with their forever families.
Donate
We have a shelter Wishlist available at Amazon and Chewy as well as accepting monetary donations. Your support helps keep the shelter running at optimal performance.
Pet Health & Safety
We offer free vaccine clinics, spay & neuter certificates, and microchipping to keep your pets and our community healthy and safe.
Volunteering
Want to give back? We have opportunities at our shelter with our animals, and at our thrift store to generate income to support our work.