Humane Society of Grand Bahama

The Humane Society of Grand Bahama was founded in 1968 to provide safe harbour for the island’s homeless and abused animals.  We are the only animal welfare organization on the island, which encompasses 530 square miles and has the Bahamas’ second largest urban area (Freeport).The island’s human population is over 50,000.

We are a private, non-profit charitable organization governed by an active and energetic Board of Directors.  We receive no financial support from Government!

The Humane Society of Grand Bahama is committed to alleviating animal over-population and suffering on our island.  Thanks to our intensive Spay/Neuter projects, Distemper Vaccination Campaign, “Operation Puppy Lift”, and ongoing education efforts, we are making a visible difference.  Though we are not yet able to save every one of the over 1,200 animals we take in annually, in the last three years we have reduced our euthanasia rate by over 25%.  We look forward to a day in the near future when the only animals euthanized are those too sick or injured to be treated. 

Bahama "Potcakes" – The Island Dog

The Potcake, also sometimes referred to as the "Island Dog", is a mixed-breed dog found on several Caribbean islands. The name comes from the staple of its diet: the dried "cake" which forms at the bottom of pots used for cooking and reheating.

Although Potcakes display a wide variety of characteristics, they generally share certain physical traits due to their isolated gene pools. Each island's gene pool is slightly different, accounting for the variations between islands. The typical Potcake has a smooth, short coat, little or no undercoat, a long snout, and floppy ears. Colors vary widely, including black, white, yellow and brown. They generally have the same temperaments: laid-back, smart, good with children, other dogs and cats. They usually reach 45-55 pounds when full grown, although some of the smaller potcakes only weigh in around 40.

A Potcake is a dog that many should consider bringing home. They are among the smartest "breed" in existence today, as they are free to mate without interference. They are protective without being violent, and very sensitive to the feelings of their "people". They express guilt when they have done something wrong. They are very obedient and when told "no", it is very unlikely they will cross the line drawn for them. If the line is crossed, which will rarely happen more than once for the same infraction, the guilt on their face and body language will give them away long before the crime is discovered. 

Please take a few minutes to browse through our website and learn more about us and our beloved potcakes and potcats!

Want To Help? Become A Member! Become a Foster Family!

Become a member of The Humane Society of the Grand Bahama. It is easy and affordable!

Become a foster family for The Humane Society of the Grand Bahama. It is easy! Dogs are flown into cities within the United States and Tip Burrows needs more fosters! It is a great way to help dogs and cats find forever homes!

For more information: Contact Tip Burrows at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it or call 242.352.2477,

In The News....

To read more about the Humane Society of the Grand Bahama and its director, Tip Burrows, check out this article on "Abandoned Animals Burden Grand Bahama Humane Society".