Hamburger Tierschutzverein (Tierheim Süderstraße)

The Hamburger Tierschutzverein von 1841 e.V. (HTV) is one of Germany’s oldest animal protection associations. It runs the Tierheim Süderstraße, the largest animal shelter of its kind in Hamburg, on a large site at Neue Süderstraße 25 (formerly Süderstraße 399) in the district of Hamm. The shelter takes in found, abandoned, surrendered and seized animals, including animals brought in on behalf of the city.

The shelter has separate dog houses, cat houses, small-animal and bird houses, social stations for animals that need extra care, and its own veterinary practice. In early October 2026 it was caring for around 145 dogs, 178 cats, more than 300 small animals and other pets, and nearly 100 wild animals that are treated and released rather than rehomed. Because it is so full, it is temporarily not taking in cats, reptiles, large parrots, pigeons or domestic poultry except in special cases.

The HTV also runs an animal rescue service: if you find a stray pet or an injured wild animal in Hamburg, you can call its emergency number, 040 222277. Its animal welfare advisers handle reports of breaches of the German Animal Welfare Act, and it runs a youth animal welfare group and school education programmes.

Visiting hours for the public are Monday, Wednesday and Friday, 1pm to 3pm, and Sunday, 9:30am to 11:30am; adoptions are best arranged by appointment. You can adopt, sponsor an animal, become a member, volunteer or donate. The association is registered at the Hamburg district court (VR 6007), is recognised as charitable (gemeinnützig), so donations are tax-deductible in Germany, and its accounts are audited by a sworn auditor. Its board members work unpaid.