Our Shelter

The Humane Society of Marion County was established by a group of dedicated community members who believed every animal deserved a safe haven. From humble beginnings, HSMC set out to prevent animal cruelty and give homeless pets a second chance in Ocala, FL.

As the organization grew, HSMC relocated to the Black Jack Woods facility — a significant expansion that allowed the shelter to care for more animals and serve a rapidly growing Marion County community.

HSMC opened its own thrift store, creating a sustainable funding stream to support shelter operations. Donations from the community could now directly benefit animals in need through every purchase made at the store.

A landmark moment in HSMC history — the organization moved into its current modern facility at 701 NW 14th Road in Ocala. The new building dramatically increased capacity, providing better living conditions for animals and improved services for adopters and volunteers.

The Memorial Park — featuring the beloved "Zozo's Gazebo" — was officially opened as a peaceful tribute to the cherished pets of our community. With engraved pavers, lush landscaping, and a beautiful gazebo, the park offers a serene place for families to honor and remember their beloved companions.

Volunteers and staff worked together to construct an expanded cat patio enclosure, giving the feline residents more outdoor space, fresh air, and enrichment. This hands-on community project reflected the dedication of everyone who gives their time to improve the lives of animals at HSMC.

HSMC constructed its first outdoor kennel group, giving dogs access to fresh air, natural light, and more space to play and decompress. This was a major quality-of-life improvement for the animals in our care.

The Memorial Park — featuring the beloved "Zozo's Gazebo" — was officially opened as a peaceful tribute to the cherished pets of our community. With engraved pavers, lush landscaping, and a beautiful gazebo, the park offers a serene place for families to honor and remember their beloved companions.

A dedicated isolation kennel group was built to safely house animals requiring medical observation or quarantine. This critical addition helped protect the health of the entire shelter population and improved outcomes for vulnerable animals.

The addition of an on-site surgical center was a game-changer for HSMC. Animals could now receive spay/neuter procedures and other critical surgeries without leaving the shelter, reducing stress and improving recovery outcomes.

The meet and greet rooms were redesigned to create a more comfortable, home-like environment for potential adopters and animals to bond. This upgrade helped increase successful adoptions by giving families a relaxed space to connect with their future pets.

A brand-new adoptions kennel group was built specifically to showcase dogs available for adoption in a welcoming, well-maintained environment — making it easier for families to find their perfect match.

HSMC launched the W.O.O.F. (Working Out Our Faults) program in partnership with the local women's correctional facility. Shelter dogs were paired with residents for training, providing the animals with socialization and obedience skills while giving participants a sense of purpose, responsibility, and compassion — a win for both people and pets.

HSMC launched the Magic Bark Bus — a mobile adoption and outreach unit that brought animals directly into the community. The bus allowed HSMC to host off-site adoption events, reach more potential adopters, and raise awareness across Marion County.

Continued growth in animal intake led to the construction of an additional adoptions kennel group, further expanding HSMC's capacity to house and care for dogs while they awaited their forever homes.

The feline areas received a major upgrade with the construction of larger, enriched catios — outdoor enclosures that give cats fresh air, climbing structures, and stimulating environments. This improvement significantly enhanced the well-being of cats in the shelter's care.

HSMC installed a one-of-a-kind dog splash pad — a fun, cooling water play area that keeps dogs happy, healthy, and mentally stimulated during Florida's hot summers. The splash pad quickly became a favorite feature for dogs and visitors alike.

A new, expanded isolation kennel group was constructed to meet growing demand and improve biosecurity protocols. The upgraded facility ensures that animals needing medical care or observation are housed in safe, comfortable, purpose-built spaces.

HSMC opened a dedicated public veterinary clinic, making affordable pet care accessible to all Marion County residents. The clinic offers vaccines, wellness exams, microchipping, and more — helping keep pets healthy and in their homes.

The beloved Memorial Garden received significant enhancements in 2026, including new engraved pavers, expanded seating areas, refreshed landscaping, and a dedicated remembrance wall honoring beloved pets. The garden continues to serve as a peaceful place of reflection for the community.