For almost a decade, Delaware has been labeled as the only ‘no kill’ shelter in the country with a consistent save rate at over 90%. The state of Delaware worked diligently with the Brandywine Valley SPCA and the Office of Animal Welfare (OAW) to enact legislation that protects its animals.
Senator Nicole Poore introduced Senate Bill 174 to establish a state-wide online list maintained by the OAW that will protect animals and shelters from registered animal abusers. This registry will be listed on the OAW website and include names, photos, and conviction details of those guilty of animal abuse crimes. Individuals with misdemeanor convictions will be listed for five years, and those with felony convictions will be listed for 15 years.
This list will bar shelters from approving adoptions to those who have harmed animals, and adding an additional layer of protection for animals. This legislation received bipartisan support across both chambers, and was signed by Gov. Matt Meyer during the Summer of 2025.