Welcome to Crossed Paws Animal Shelter - Serving Monroe County's Furry Friends!

At Crossed Paws, we are more than an animal shelter; we're a community-driven 501(c)3 nonprofit organization dedicated to the well-being of animals and the people of Monroe County, Southeast Ohio. Every role in our shelter is filled by passionate volunteers, and we operate without monetary support from state, federal, or local entities.

Our History: Crossed Paws Animal Shelter (CPAS) was established in 2001, originally known as the Monroe County Humane Society. At its inception, there was no physical shelter and only a few foster homes available for housing animals, but the organization persevered through these early challenges. Despite the obstacles, the dedication to the cause remained strong, and over time, CPAS began to grow and expand.

In 2004, the shelter received a generous donation of land from Richard Cogar Sr., his son Richard Cogar, and daughter-in-law Alicia Cogar. This land became the home of the shelter’s first building—a simple metal garage alongside a trailer. Over the years, the shelter has evolved, adding two additional buildings to accommodate more animals, creating outdoor dog runs, and developing a large green space where dogs can exercise and socialize with volunteers and potential adoptive families.

Today, we proudly serve the community with improved facilities that house numerous cats and kittens, as well as additional areas for cats in the main building. What began as a small operation has grown into a fully functioning shelter, providing care and love to countless animals in need.

CPAS operates entirely on the dedication of volunteers, without whom the shelter simply would not exist. We are deeply grateful to every individual who selflessly donates their time and affection, helping us provide the animals with a safe environment until they find their forever homes.  Our funding is provided to the shelter by way of fundraisers and generous supporters. 

Our Mission: We are committed to the general welfare, sheltering, and placement of animals, preventing cruelty to animals, addressing animal overpopulation, and educating our community on the humane treatment of all living creatures.

How We Operate: All the funds we receive, whether through fundraisers, community support, membership fees, or grants, go directly back into the shelter. This includes covering essential needs like food, high medical expenses for our animals, shelter upkeep, and utilities. Unlike national animal welfare groups, your donations here directly impact the lives of local pets in need.

Your Support Matters: Our work is made possible by the generosity of our community and caring individuals. Your support ensures that we can continue our mission and make a meaningful difference in the lives of animals.

Important Note: As volunteers, we strive to respond promptly to emails and calls. If you ever experience difficulty reaching us through email, please don't hesitate to call and leave a message. Likewise, if you leave a message and don't receive an immediate response, please call again. Your understanding and patience are greatly appreciated.

Proud Grant Recipient: We are proud recipients of a previous grant from Ohio Pet Fund. Take a moment to explore their website and consider contributing or purchasing a pet license plate to support their impactful work.