Humane World for Animals, formerly called the Humane Society of the United States, is not a shelter, parent organization or regulatory/investigative agency for local humane societies, animal shelters, animal care and control agencies or rescue groups. These groups are independent organizations governed by their boards of directors or by city or county officials.
To find your local animal welfare organizations, visit Adopt-a-Pet and search under "Find a shelter."
If your pet is ill or injured, contact a local veterinarian immediately. You may find financially friendly veterinary services at Pet Help Finder. Humane World for Animals cannot provide individual counseling about a pet's health.
Animal shelters and rescues

What to do if you’re concerned about your local animal shelter

Get answers to common questions about animal shelters and rescues, including how they operate, how to help, and how animals are cared for.

Frequently asked questions about animal shelters and rescues.

Our programs work to help shelters reduce the need for euthanasia for healthy and adoptable pets, all while striving to identify and address the root causes of pet homelessness.
Cats

With the right approach, you can increase the odds of a successful match.

Cats can seem mysterious—but you can decipher your cat's mood based on their vocalizations, body language and behaviors.

Please take these crucial considerations into account before you scoop up young kittens that you may find without a mother cat nearby.

Losing your cat is heartbreaking but these tips can help you reunite with your kitty companion.

Learn how to litter train your kitten or adult cat, choose the right litter box and litter type, avoid common problems, and keep your cat happy and your home clean.

Find answers to common questions about outdoor and community cats, including TNR, kittens, cat behavior, and humane ways to help.

You can keep your cat while keeping you and your baby safe! Follow our tips for avoiding exposure to toxoplasmosis from cat litter and reducing risk from other sources.
Dogs

Preparation and patience are key while your dog adjusts to a new home and you learn to live together.

If you've checked shelters and rescue groups and still haven't found the best pet for you, here's how to find a responsible dog breeder.

Losing your dog is heartbreaking but these tips can help you reunite with your canine companion

If you purchased a sick puppy from a pet store, please use this form to file a complaint.

Are you getting a new dog or thinking about it? We're so excited for you and we know you'll give your new companion a great, loving home.
Horses
How to adopt or buy a horse
While having a horse in the family can be rewarding, being a successful horse owner requires a great deal of time, money and a lasting commitment to the care and well-being of the animal. The keys to
How to Care for a Horse
Caring for a horse is a long-term commitment that requires knowledge, resources, and daily attention. Whether you’re a new horse owner, a longtime caregiver, or responsible for horses in your
Relinquishing your horse
To thrive, horses require healthy amounts of food and water, adequate shelter and competent care. Horse owners must commit a great deal of time, energy, skill and money to ensuring their horses have
Pet safety and frequently asked questions

Want to add a pet to your family? Local animal shelters and rescue groups can be great places to search for a new cat, dog, bird, small animal, horse, or even pig! Here’s how.

If you or someone you know is having trouble affording a pet, here are resources that can help with veterinary expenses, pet food and more.

You can be happy with pets, even if you're allergic. Don't just cope. Improve your quality of life and reduce symptoms via air cleaners, regular baths, and shots or sprays.

Find expert tips and trusted resources on pet care, animal behavior, humane wildlife management, and animal advocacy. Help animals live better lives with Humane World for Animals.

Protect your pets from hidden risks around the home. Read our guide to household items that can harm animals and simple tips to avoid accidents

The stress and uncertainty of facing potential deportation and separation from your pets is overwhelming and difficult.

Many hardships that arise between owner and pet are temporary or can be resolved with help. Explore how you might be able to keep your pet or find them a happy new home.

How to keep pets calm and wildlife safe during holidays so that the whole family can celebrate.

Pet costumes can be fun—if you consider them from your pet’s point of view

Learn how to keep your pets safe during the holiday season.

It can be a crime to leave pets outside in extreme temperatures without food and shelter since winter can be deadly, so please speak up.

Hundreds of pets are lost each year to heat stroke, especially those left in parked cars. Please take precautions to ensure that your dog or cat is not one of them.\

Find financially friendly pet resources.

Protect your pets from dangerous plants around your house and learn which snacks are safe to share

Looking for a landlord and rental housing policy that will welcome your whole family, including pets? We can help you.

If you suspect animal cruelty, don’t wait—learn the signs and how to report abuse to protect animals from harm

Many people with disabilities use a service animal in order to fully participate in everyday life. Get the facts on service animals.

Cats, dogs and rabbits can benefit from better health, fewer behavior issues and a longer average lifespan. Plus, pet owners save money too.

Should you travel with your dog or cat, or find a pet sitter? Tips for how to decide and how to keep your pet safe if you take them along in a car, airplane, ship or train.

Steps for addressing issues with your veterinarian or clinic.
Small mammals and other pets

Chicken keeping can be a joyful experience in both rural areas and city backyards, but you'll need to meet your birds' unique care needs to ensure them a safe, healthy and contented life.

Are you thinking about a pet ferret? There are many factors to consider ranging from state and local laws to children's safety to regular care.

Gerbils can be good pets for older children or families tight on space, but they are not for everyone. Learn how to decide whether to adopt one of these little explorers.

Are you thinking about choosing a guinea pig as a pet? Make sure you are ready for the commitment before adopting one of these gentle animals.

Before bringing one home, it’s important to ask: Are hamsters good pets for you and your household.

Thinking about adopting a bunny? Learn more about the commitment they require.

Rats have a bad reputation, but they can be just as healthy, smart and charismatic as other pets.

Consider the risks to your health, the environment and the animals. Turtles live long and it's often illegal to release them outside. Are you ready for decades of commitment?
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HumanePro
HumanePro is our dynamic, comprehensive online resource for those in the trenches of animal care. Through news, trainings, how-to guides, job and grant directories, and our annual Animal Care Expo, we help animal shelters, rescue groups and other animal welfare professionals support pet owners in their communities and save more animals.

Humane World for Animals
To protect their pets, many owners turn to microchips. Microchips are tiny transponders, about the size of a grain of rice, that can be implanted under your pet’s skin by most veterinarians and animal

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House-train a new dog or puppy by establishing a routine for when they eat, drink, go outside, and get rewarded for desired behavior.

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Finding a trustworthy and reliable sitter for your dog and cat can be stressful. We're here to help guide you through the interview process.
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Stay up-to-date on the latest news and quick, simple actions you can take to help animals.
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