What Is the Purpose of the Humane Society?

For animal lovers, it's often difficult to resist a trip to the nearest humane society to view the animals or make a donation to the cause. If you have children, encouraging them to volunteer for the organization is a win-win situation. The Humane Society of the United States is dedicated to the protection and advocacy of animals. The organization doesn't run shelters; the shelters in your community are independent but might receive support from the USHS.

The Humane Society of the United States, which has been in operation since 1954, has a mission statement of celebrating animals and confronting cruelty. This organization advocates for animal-protection laws; runs campaigns to educate the public about its policies; provides rescue services and medical care for all types of animals; and investigates animal cruelty incidents. Based in Washington, D.C., the USHS supports state and city humane societies through methods such as training initiatives and expert advice but does not run them. The organization relies in part on the financial support of animal lovers across the country.