Who We Are and What We Do

Before Florence Dedman passed away, she made a wish that an animal shelter might be established in Fort Benton, Montana. It would be to help the abandoned, abused, and neglected animals of this area and to give them a second chance. With Florence’s bequest an animal shelter was established and it has been in operation for fifteen years. Florence didn’t expect the shelter to “last forever”, but wanted her bequest to “last as long as it can”. I think she would be happy to know, her wishes are still being honored and a shelter bearing her name is still serving the animals she wanted to help.

This last year, over 220 animals passed through the facility. Many are from Chouteau County, but sometimes from the surrounding counties, as well. Animals find their way to the shelter for many reasons. Most of the time, it is through no fault of their own. Sometimes families move, divorce, death, and sometimes pet are abandoned, along the road or left to forage for themselves. In any case, the ones that find their way to The Florence Dedman Animal Shelter and Foundation are the lucky ones. If they are in need of medical care, food, shelter or a gentle hand, they will be helped. We try very hard to find the very best home for each and every one. Before any animal is adopted, they will be neutered or spayed and will have the necessary vaccinations. If they are too young for a procedure, plans will be made to have the service done at a later date.

Florence saw the need, provided the way, and now it is up to others to continue this very needed service. It is only with generosity and kindness of heart, can this journey continue. The Florence Dedman Animal Shelter operates entirely on donations, gifts, grants, adoption fees and our “Trip of the Month” ticket sales. Depending on the number of residents and if space is available, we offer animal boarding. We employ one full time Director/Manager and one and sometimes, two, others to help with the daily chores. Support from volunteers is always welcome. Please come visit us. We are at 2400 High Street, Fort Benton. Our mailing address is P.O. Box 1282, Fort Benton, MT 59442. We can be reached at 622-5657. Our animals are on the web here, www.dedmanfoundation.org and also at www.montanapets.org . If you are interested in a “Trip of the Month”, tickets are available. If you want to learn more about these trips go to our Events and Fundraisers page. May the spirit of the season warm your heart to the needs of the less fortunate animals in the community. Please help us, help the animals.

The-Puppy-Dog-Place - it's the complete puppy care guide that you've been searching for! This site offers all sorts of useful information from choosing the right breed of dog for your family to useful information about training and health issues. Click here to go to the website.

Hendrick Boards - For every t-shirt sold they will donate money to support the local shelter. Check out their on-line store at hendrickboards.com

This video is about the relationship between a boy and his dog. To view this video click Here.

A good video worth watching, click Here.