You might choose to thrift because of all the typical benefits of supporting second-hand stores, like great prices and the environmental benefits of reducing waste. However, you can also expect a few extra perks when you decide to shop DCHS Thrift Stores!

For starters, we are pet people! We love seeing newly-adopted pets come through the doors and will often recognize shelter alumni when they visit. We are thrilled to support our community through all stages of pet parenthood, and we really do want to see your pet photos. At our donation door, staff are also full of compassion when someone has lost their beloved pet and wants their supplies to benefit another animal. A genuine love for animals is something our team and our shoppers all have in common.

That love for animals is also what drives our mission. Proceeds generated through sales at our stores and any additional monetary donations made at the register stays in our community — and it truly makes a difference

Our shelter is a private non-profit, and we are not a government agency nor a branch of a national animal welfare organization. That means most of our funding comes directly from community members like you, including the funds raised when you shop or donate at our thrift stores. Every dollar goes right back into the care of the animals in our shelter and Wildlife Center and supports keeping pets with their current families. When you pick up a bargain at one of our stores, you’re also helping a dog get the surgery they need, giving a cat a cozy place to recover, or providing expert wildlife rehabilitation. At DCHS Thrift Stores, you can shop knowing that your purchase is making a real, tangible impact right here in your local community.

Our stores are also run by a very diverse group of people. We take great pride in our vast LGBTQ+ workforce, and our volunteer teams are made up of diverse age groups as well. We allow volunteers as young as 10 years old to join our team with a parent or guardian, and we are a popular place to volunteer for high schoolers, college students, and retirees alike. Many of our volunteers have been with us since our opening day — over 7 years ago! They stick with us because of our commitment to a compassionate, inclusive, and fun atmosphere. As our program grows, we use the feedback of our volunteers to determine next steps, and we continue to prioritize their experience in our decisions.

Whether you’re looking for gently used (and thoroughly cleaned) pet beds, clothes, and toys, or special finds like clothing for humans of all ages, housewares, furniture, and more, you’ve come to the right place. DCHS Thrift Stores are a truly special place to shop, and we hope to see you come through our doors someday soon — don’t forget to bring your furry friend, too!