Potter League for Animals (PL) is a 501(c)3 tax exempt nonprofit (IRS Tax ID# 05-0301553) and is the animal shelter of Newport County, Rhode Island, where we promote the humane treatment of all animals, while providing shelter and care for lost or unwanted companion animals. The Potter League for Animals was founded in 1929 under the name, “Newport County League for Animals” in order to take charge of abandoned, sick, lame, overworked or cruelly treated animals. The three woman founders, Virginia Potter, Mary van Beuren and Emma Norman were individuals of timeless vision. The League’s first shelter opened in 1931 on Harrington Street in Newport. In 1958, Virginia Potter died leaving a bequest upon the condition that the League be renamed in honor of her late husband, Robert Potter. A new state-of-the-art facility opened in November of 2008 with homelike housing which replaced the old concrete and wire fenced kennels.

The Potter League for Animals serves thousands of animals each year, and places approximately 2,000 dogs and cats into loving homes. We are committed to finding homes for all adoptable pets. We do not euthanize adoptable animals, and there are no time limits for the animals once they are in our care. We only humanely euthanize those animals suffering from significant medical issues or that pose behavior concerns. Our doors are opened to all unwanted animals in Newport County and beyond.

The Potter League for Animals Values Transparency

View our 2018 Annual Report.

View our 2018 Financial Statements.

View our 2018 IRS 990 Statement.

Potter League for Animals Mission and Vision

As the heart of a humane community and in partnership with that community, the Potter League for Animals is dedicated to making a difference in the lives of animals. We promote the humane treatment of all animals and provide shelter and care for lost or unwanted companion animals. Through education, commitment to a standard of excellence in the care of animals, and fostering relationships between people and animals, we enhance the animals’ lives and enrich the human experience.