About Us

The story of Francisvale started in Philadelphia on a stormy, cold, wintry night in 1897. That night, Dr. and Mrs. George McClellan were riding in their carriage to the theatre when they noticed a shivering puppy huddled under a snowbank by the side of the road.

Stopping their carriage, they adopted the dog on the spot and named him Francis. He developed into such an excellent pet that Mrs. McClellan decided to do something for the other stray dogs, acquiring the tract of land in Radnor where Francisvale now stands.

Founded in 1909 in Radnor, PA on the Main Line, Francisvale is one of the oldest no-kill shelters in operation in the U.S. Our organization has saved the lives of more than 20,000 pets.

Francisvale Home For Smaller Animals provides temporary shelter and care to abandoned cats and dogs and places them in permanent adoptive homes.

We work closely with each animal in our care to ensure successful placement in permanent adoptive homes, offering individuals and families the love and companionship that pets provide.

In order to prepare animals in our care to successfully transition into their new lives as companion pets, Francisvale provides compassionate care including:

  • Behavioral evaluation and training
  • Spay/neuter services
  • Medically-necessary treatments

In addition to its animal adoption services, Francisvale’s premises include an expansive Memorial Grounds that is the final resting place for more than 2,000 faithful companions.

Francisvale offers a variety of memorial services to help individuals and families pay tribute to their cherished pets.