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The Tierheim Köln-Dellbrück is the largest animal shelter in North Rhine-Westphalia and one of the leading institutions for practical animal welfare in Germany. Founded in 1969 on the former site of a hunting lodge in Köln-Dellbrück, it has developed into a modern complex with 7000 square meters of space, including four dog houses, two cat houses, a large small animal department, as well as three large and 13 smaller exercise areas for dogs.[2][4][7]
A team of 30 dedicated employees takes care of homeless, abused, sick or abandoned animals around the clock - 365 days a year, 24 hours a day. The facility takes in thousands of protégés every year: In 2024 alone, 1435 animals were taken into care, including 298 dogs, 363 cats, 293 small animals and 506 wild animals. Of these, 740 animals were successfully rehomed and 420 wild animals were released.[4] Each animal receives : medical care, social interaction and a stress-free environment so that it can recover and develop optimally. Before rehoming, the team carefully checks whether the potential new owner and home are a good long-term fit - a responsibility that is central.[1][2] In addition, the animal shelter provides visitors, callers and email writers with competent advice on topics such as animal husbandry and animal welfare.[2][4]
As one of 10 animal shelters of the Bundes gegen Missbrauch der Tiere e.V. (bmt), the Tierheim Köln-Dellbrück pursues a clear stance: help for every animal in need, regardless of species or origin - from dogs to cats and small animals to wild animals or even calves from intensive animal farming. The main mission is: Rescue, care and placement in loving, permanent homes to enable every animal to live a happy, healthy life.[1][3][4]
Core values are passion, responsibility and community: "Animals and people are partners." The team believes in the power of collective commitment - with volunteers, donors and partner organizations - and promotes joy of life in people and animals every day.[1][3]
The animal shelter goes beyond pure care and actively campaigns for political animal welfare. The bmt association participates in committees, publishes statements, position papers and organizes campaigns against industrial intensive farming, animal experiments, exploitation of wild animals in zoos, circuses, hunting or the fur industry. Through workshops, information events and lectures, it raises public awareness of animal welfare issues and strengthens the sense of responsibility of animal owners.[1][3]
The facility invites you to participate actively: as a member, sponsor or donor, to write "stories of hope" together.[4]
Sustainability goals are reflected in the holistic animal welfare philosophy: Unlimited protection against abuse, promotion of species-appropriate husbandry and pressure on political decision-makers in Europe to end abuses such as intensive animal farming. The track record - thousands of animals rehomed every year - confirms the effectiveness of these approaches. With over 50 years of experience, the animal shelter remains a pioneer for a more animal-friendly Germany.[3][6][7]
The Tierheim Köln-Dellbrück is more than just a station: it is a symbol of compassion, professionalism and tireless dedication. New friendships are formed here - and opportunities for a better life for animals.[1][4]
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