Cologne-Dellbrück Animal Shelter Festival

The largest bmt animal shelter opens its gates

The Cologne-Dellbrück Animal Shelter describes itself as "the largest of our bmt animal shelters". The bmt e.V. – Bund gegen Missbrauch der Tiere operates several animal shelters nationwide, and Dellbrück is its flagship. Once a year, the animal shelter invites you to its big Tierheimfest (animal shelter festival) — in 2026 on Saturday, May 30th and Sunday, May 31st, 2026, from 12:00 PM to 6:00 PM.

Open House with a Festival Atmosphere

The animal shelter festival is both a classic animal welfare event and an open house. On the program:

• Tombola with prizes from local sponsors
• Information booths on animal welfare, the adoption process, and care for dogs, cats, rabbits, and birds
• Sales booths with merchandise (T-shirts, mugs, toys)
• Catering (sausages, vegan options, cakes, drinks)
• Hands-on activities for children (craft stations, animal welfare quiz)
• Dog show and small demonstrations with shelter animals
• Adoption counseling — those looking for an animal can talk to caretakers
• Donation box and membership drive for bmt

Background: bmt e.V.

The bmt – Bund gegen Missbrauch der Tiere e.V. is one of Germany's oldest animal welfare associations (founded in 1846). It operates its own animal shelters, cares for animals in need, educates about species-appropriate keeping, and politically campaigns against animal testing, factory farming, and illegal puppy trading. The Cologne-Dellbrück Animal Shelter is a key location for the association.

Cologne-Dellbrück

Dellbrück is a district in the Cologne borough of Mülheim, in the eastern, right-bank part of the city. With around 23,000 inhabitants, Dellbrück is a quiet, rather green district with terraced houses and old trees. The animal shelter is located on the outskirts of the city with good public transport connections and ample space for the animals. The annual festival is an opportunity for Cologne residents to support their animal shelter — through visits, donations, or membership.

Adoption: Why a Visit Makes Sense

Anyone considering adopting a dog, cat, or other animal is especially welcome at the animal shelter festival. The caretakers have time for in-depth conversations, animals can be met in a relaxed atmosphere, and the adoption process is explained. Many successful adoptions begin precisely at events like these.