Alternative Humane Society
https://www.alternativehumanesociety.com The Alternative Humane Society is an all-volunteer, nonprofit animal welfare organization serving Whatcom County, WA.
AHS has been helping animals and educating the public since 1977. We have no shelter, office, or paid staff. Our programs include Canine Foster & Adoption, Spay & Neuter Assistance, and Community Cats Information and Referral. Mission Statement: The Alternative Humane Society of Whatcom County is an all-volunteer, non-profit animal welfare organization dedicated to improving the lives of dogs and
09/01/2026
**THIS DOG IS NOT IN THE CARE OF THE ALTERNATIVE HUMANE SOCIETY. THIS IS A COURTESY POST. PLEASE CONTACT KOTA'S OWNER DIRECTLY AT [email protected] THANK YOU**
Meet Kota 💛
Kota is about 5-ish years old and is looking for a fresh start with the right person or family. He’s a rescue himself, and while we don’t know everything about his past, we do know he’s a loyal, intelligent boy who bonds closely with his people.
Kota has primarily been kenneled and will likely need patience and guidance as he adjusts to spending more time out and building confidence in a home environment. He does okay with other dogs when introduced slowly and properly, and he can coexist with cats. He’s also done well with kids and babies, showing a gentle and tolerant side in family settings.
Handling? No problem there. Kota does fine with baths and nail trims, which makes grooming much easier. He’s a smart dog and previously received police-related training before being rescued, so he’s very alert and aware of his surroundings.
Because of that training, Kota is especially sensitive to certain environments. He does not do well around active drug use or heavy alcohol use and has reacted protectively in a few instances when people under the influence got too close while out walking. For this reason, he would do best in a stable, calm home with a confident, experienced owner who can provide clear structure and avoid those triggers.
Kota isn’t a “drop him in any situation” kind of dog — but in the right home, he has the potential to be an incredibly devoted and protective companion. He’s looking for someone who understands that rescue dogs sometimes come with a story… and who’s willing to give him the safe, steady life he deserves.
08/31/2026
🪄🃏 Meet Penn & Teller — a bonded pair looking for their forever home! 🐾💕
These two 4-month-old brothers may have very different personalities, but together they’re the perfect magic act. ✨
Penn is the soulful heart of the duo. Dressed to impress in his black-and-white tuxedo, complete with white gloves on all four paws, a white nose stripe, and the softest green eyes, he’s a true heartbreaker. 💚 Penn is playful with other kitties but gentle and demure when it comes to affection. He forms deep connections with his people and is happiest curled up in the arms of a cat, dog, kid—or anyone offering cuddles! He’ll happily follow his person around the house and join in on anything fun.
Teller is Penn’s fearless counterpart! With gorgeous blue, silver, and gray tabby swirls, Teller is an adventurous little guy who is always ready for action. He’ll conquer the cat wheel, dive into a wild play session, cuddle a dog, or loudly announce that he’s arrived and would like some lovins, please! 😻 He’s curious, confident, affectionate, and afraid of absolutely nothing.
These boys met as tiny 3-week-old babies and bonded instantly. They’ve been doing everything together ever since and must be adopted together. Penn brings the sensitive, deeply loving soul, while Teller brings the confidence and enthusiasm. Together, they balance each other beautifully. 🥰
They would thrive in a home with loving people, dogs or young children who enjoy lots of cuddles, and plenty of opportunities for play and companionship.
All of our cats come spayed or neutered, microchipped, and with their initial age-appropriate vaccinations. Kittens have an adoption fee of $200 each or $300 for a bonded pair. Kittens must be adopted in pairs unless there is another young, energetic cat in the home. If you would like to apply to be a forever home for this cat, please fill out a statement of interest at www.alternativehumanesociety.com. Unless otherwise indicated, all our cats and kittens are best suited for indoor-only life.
08/31/2026
Today's success story is GORDO!
Gordo's Adoption Story:
When Gordo arrived in foster care, all we knew was what we had been told: "We haven't been able to touch him. He growls at us and stays in his crate." He was frightened of the world around him and unsure if people could be trusted.
The first day in his foster home, Gordo remained hidden in the back of his crate. Hours later, he cautiously emerged only to tuck himself beneath a plant stand, where he stayed for several days. His foster parents brought food and water to him and spent time sitting quietly nearby, patiently allowing him to adjust at his own pace.
Then came a breakthrough. One day, Gordo ventured out, sniffed a hand, and allowed gentle touch for the first time. From that moment on, progress came slowly but steadily. He learned to wear a harness and leash, and although he was terrified on his first trip outdoors, he gradually gained confidence. Before long, he was proudly "prancing" alongside the other dogs on walks.
Over the next several months, Gordo blossomed. He began coming when called, relaxing on the couch, and seeking out companionship. While strangers still made him nervous, he had learned that love and kindness could be trusted. His foster family knew that the time had come to find him a forever home.
Then Kathy and Michael submitted an adoption application. Their story felt like the perfect match. During their first meeting, Gordo was nervous at first, but soon he started exploring their home and even let Michael hold his leash during a walk. A few days later, while the adoption paperwork was being completed, Gordo quietly walked over to Kathy and licked her foot. It was a small gesture, but everyone in the room knew what it meant: Gordo was ready to give his heart to a new family.
About a month after his adoption, Kathy and Michael shared an update that brought smiles to everyone involved in Gordo's journey:
"Gordo's energy has brought the household to life. He rolls on the carpet and the grass. He's shown interest in his toys. We are so proud to show him to our neighbors and tell his story."
Today, Gordo is exactly where he belongs, surrounded by love, security, and a family that believed in him. His journey is a reminder that patience, compassion, and a little faith can transform the life of a frightened dog into a beautiful happily-ever-after.
08/30/2026
🐾 Meet Ciggy: 80 Pounds of Love, Adventure & Cuddles 🐾
Looking for a best friend who loves adventure as much as cuddles? Meet Ciggy, a 3-year-old, 80-pound mixed-breed sweetheart who is ready to find his forever home. ❤️
This soulful gentleman is a true people-lover who never misses a chance to make a new human friend. Whether he's soaking up the sunshine, gazing out the window, or stopping to sniff every interesting thing on a walk,Ciggy knows how to appreciate life's simple pleasures. We affectionately call him our little philosopher because he'll happily pause to stare into the wilderness and remind you to slow down and smell the flowers.
Ciggy is smart, patient, and incredibly expressive. His adorable face tells you exactly how he's feeling, especially when he's being sassy because he'd like a little more attention! Like many pitties, he wears his heart on his sleeve and loves being close to his people. His favorite place is right next to you, on your lap (all 80 lbs of him!), or with his head tucked into your chest for a hug. 🥰
✨ A few things to know: • 3 years old, mixed breed, and 80 lbs
• Loves all humans and thrives on companionship
• Enjoys walks, hikes, runs, and outdoor adventures
• Can be nervous around fast-moving bikes and cars
• Dog-selective and prefers to choose his canine friends carefully
• Neutered, microchipped, and up-to-date on vaccines ✅
🏡 Ciggy's ideal home: • A loving, cuddly household
• Lots of windows and sunny spots for lounging
• Active humans who enjoy walking, hiking, or running
• A family that appreciates a loyal shadow and snuggle expert
If you're looking for a devoted companion with a gentle soul, a big personality, and an even bigger heart, Ciggy may be your perfect match.
📩 Interested in adopting Ciggy? Fill out a Statement of Interest on the Alternative Humane Society website.
❤️ Please share to help Siggy find the forever home he deserves!
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08/30/2026
Meet Carmen! 🐾
Looking for a shadow, a cuddle buddy, and a best friend who thinks you're the center of the universe? Carmen is ready to apply for the position. ❤️
At 9 weeks old and about 10 lbs, this adorable caramel-colored boy is searching for his forever family. While his breed mix is a mystery, we expect him to grow into a medium-sized dog somewhere between 30-60 lbs.
Carmen and his siblings had a heartbreaking start to life. Rescued from neglect in Beverly, WA, they arrived in foster care sick, underweight, and unsure of the world around them. Since then, Carmen has blossomed into a happy, healthy puppy who has discovered that people are pretty wonderful.
This sweet boy's greatest wish? To be wherever YOU are.
Carmen is a sensitive, affectionate little soul who loves people, adores children, and would gladly spend every waking moment by your side. If you leave the room, don't be surprised if he lets you know he misses you. He is convinced that companionship is life's greatest treasure, and honestly, he's not wrong. 🥹
✨ Carmen's favorite things: 🐶 Following his humans everywhere
🐾 Playing and wrestling with his siblings
🛋️ Snuggling on the couch
🧦 "Borrowing" socks and shoes
🎾 Toys, treats, and praise
❤️ Making new friends
Carmen is smart, eager to learn, and doing great with litter training. He's curious, energetic, and always ready for the next adventure. Like any puppy, he's also an enthusiastic chewer who believes every object deserves a thorough taste test. He's especially talented at finding anything you forgot to puppy-proof! 😆
Because he forms strong bonds with his people, Carmen would thrive with someone who works from home, is retired, or otherwise has plenty of time to spend with him. A canine sibling would be a bonus, but his dream home is one filled with love, attention, and lots of snuggles.
As with all puppies, he's still learning manners, managing excitement, and navigating life with a mouth full of tiny puppy teeth. With consistency, training, and patience, he's going to make an incredible companion.
💙 This sweet caramel boy is waiting to find the love of his life. Could it be you?
✅ Microchipped
✅ Age-appropriate vaccines started
💲 Adoption fee: $425
💲 Refundable neuter deposit: $200
🎓 Signed up for in-person puppy class registration required within 10 days of adoption
🐾❤️
08/29/2026
Mira is a one-and-a-half-year-old Tuxedo cat with a personality as bold as his markings! His love of his exercise wheel has given him a slender, athletic build, while the unique markings around his eyes make it look like he’s wearing mascara.
Mira is a rambunctious, affectionate boy and truly the life of the party. With energy straight out of a Jim Carrey movie, he brings comedy and chaos to everything he does. Call his name and he’ll happily “yell” back and forth with you, then hide behind a wall for a game of peek-a-boo. Every so often, he’ll pause for a hilarious “thousand-yard stare,” as if contemplating the mysteries of the universe.
Health & Habits: Mira has some gastrointestinal sensitivities that are successfully managed with a specific diet, which will need to continue in his new home. He also likes to chew on plastic, so he’ll need to be monitored to keep him safe. He’s very smart—and very persistent when he wants something!
The Ideal Match: Mira needs a patient, affectionate family who can keep up with his energy. He thrives with enrichment, play, and activities that keep his body and mind busy. He can be shy with new people and may hide at first, so he’ll need time to settle in at his own pace.
Mira currently lives happily with other cats. He has also lived with dogs and children, although he can become overstimulated and may scratch, so supervision is important. At bedtime, he loves snuggling beside his person—without being a bed hog. He’s a wonderfully sweet boy with a huge personality!
All cats are spayed/neutered, microchipped, and current on age-appropriate vaccinations. Young cats have a $175 adoption fee. To apply, visit www.alternativehumanesociety.com and complete a statement of interest. Unless otherwise noted, our cats and kittens are best suited for indoor-only homes.
08/29/2026
Are you ready to make a difference in the life of a furry friend? 🐾💕 We are always on the lookout for dedicated and compassionate individuals to join our foster family and provide a loving home to our adorable puppies! 🐶 It takes a special kind of person to open their heart and home to foster puppies, but we know there are many amazing people out there who are up for the challenge! 💪 Fostering puppies is an incredibly rewarding experience that not only brings joy to the puppies but also to the foster families themselves. By providing a safe and nurturing environment, you can help shape the future of these young lives and set them up for a lifetime of happiness and success. 🌟 Fostering puppies can literally save a young life, and we believe that every puppy deserves a second chance at a happy and healthy life. 🐾❤️ If you might be interested in fostering a puppy or two (or three, or four... 😉) or just want to learn more about our foster program, please visit our website and fill out the foster form. We can't wait to welcome you to our foster family and work together to make a difference in the lives of these precious puppies! 🐾💕
08/28/2026
Meet Treble, a distinguished 7-year-old Shepherd Mix with 35 pounds of pure heart. He's neutered, current on vaccines, and microchipped — a gentleman in every sense (well, mostly — more on that in a moment).
Treble's family had to move and, heartbreakingly, couldn't take him along, but he's ready to write the next chapter of his story. And what a well-rounded chapter it'll be — he's lived happily alongside cats, dogs, and kids, and gets along famously with all of them.
He loves walks and hikes (fair warning: he does like to leave his mark along the way — a dog's got to sign the guestbook). Squeaky toys and balls are also high on his list of favorite things, and he plays with the enthusiasm of a dog half his age.
Treble is in good health and not on any medications. He's already leash-trained and potty trained, though he could use a refresher course on his basic manners — sit, down, and stay are more like polite suggestions to him right now. He doesn't need an experienced handler, just someone patient and willing to put in a little practice.
The one thing Treble's working on: he gets anxious when left alone and will let the whole neighborhood know about it through some vocal protesting. He's not crate trained yet either. He'd do best with a family who can help him feel secure and work through his separation anxiety with him — patience and consistency will go a long way.
Treble is a loyal, affectionate soul who's ready to give his whole heart to a family of his own. If you think you could be the one to help him feel safe and loved, please visit the Alternative Humane Society website to fill out a statement of interest.
08/28/2026
Meet Charlie (aka Chuckles, aka The Dread Pirate Chuckles)! At 13, Charlie has mastered gratitude.
Charlie’s early life wasn’t kind. He survived who knows how long on the streets before arriving in heartbreaking condition, with severe dental disease, painful abscesses, and uncontrolled diabetes. Yet through it all, Charlie never stopped believing people were worth loving.
He endured two dental surgeries, leaving him with just three teeth, and accepted every medication and insulin injection. Today, he’s comfortable, happy, and thriving.
Charlie is diabetic and needs insulin every 12 hours for the rest of his life. Thankfully, he’s an absolute pro; his injections take only a moment. His limited vision doesn’t slow him down; he confidently explores the house and catios, finds sunny spots—and your lap.
He’s not looking for adventure. He’s looking for you.
Charlie is happiest curled up beside his person, soaking up head scritches, naps, and the comfort of being loved. He’s deeply affectionate, loyal, and grateful for every meal, soft bed, and kind touch.
He’s wonderfully gentle and gets along with other cats, respectful dogs, and people. He simply loves companionship, whether it has two legs or four.
Charlie may need a little extra care, but what he gives in return is immeasurable. Give him a few minutes each day to manage his diabetes, and he’ll spend every day showing you what unconditional love looks like.
Around here, we aspire to be a little more like Charlie—happy to be here, grateful for love, and ready to return it with our whole hearts.
If you’re looking for a best friend, Charlie is waiting.
All of our cats come spayed or neutered, microchipped, and with age-appropriate vaccinations. Senior cats have an adoption fee of $100. If you would like to apply to be a forever home for this cat, please fill out a statement of interest at www.alternativehumanesociety.com. Unless otherwise indicated, all our cats and kittens are best suited for indoor-only life.
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P. O. Box 2321
Bellingham, WA
98227