Dan Koeck/AP Images for HSUS
Increasing access to care for pets and people
The deep connection between people and pets is universal, but access to animal care resources is not. Humane World for Animals works to keep pets happy and healthy, and in their homes.
Keeping pets and people together
The deep connection between people and pets is universal, but access to animal care resources is not. In truly humane communities, everyone can obtain what they need for the animals in their lives.
around the world live on the streets or in shelters, rather than in a home
experience poverty with their families in the United States
live on the streets in India
Take a look inside the issue
People have tremendous love for their animal family members, yet millions struggle to access care for their pets. Poverty and systemic inequity create obstacles to pet wellness services—such as health and behavioral care—as well as pet supplies and pet-inclusive housing.
Kevin Wolf/AP Images for the HSUS
Meredith Lee/Humane World for Animals
Frank Loftus/Humane World for Animals
Our work in the United States
We work to ensure underserved communities have accessible pet care through a comprehensive support system, combining our direct care programs with training and mentorship for animal welfare and veterinary professionals.
Since 2012, our Pets for Life program has supported over 300,000 pets in underserved areas with more than 1.1 million services, including over $14 million in veterinary care. Our program has also distributed almost $14 million in grants to local organizations around the country.
Our Rural Area Veterinary Services program has cared for more than 175,000 animals, providing over $34 million in veterinary services. We have trained nearly 15,000 veterinary professionals and students, who have volunteered more than 900,000 professional hours providing access to care services.
Creating an equitable world for people and pets requires more than just providing services. It involves reimagining our societies and supporting humans so they have what they need to provide safe, loving, comfortable homes for themselves and the animals in their care.
Across the country, entire communities ban or restrict dogs because of their breed or perceived breed. We oppose such public policies as inhumane and ineffective. There is no evidence that breed-specific laws reduce dog bites or attacks on people and they divert resources from more effective animal control and public safety initiatives.
Take Action
The lack of access to pet care and resources is an overlooked national crisis. This lack of access means many families don’t have what they want and need for their pets. Take action to help keep pets and their families together.
Volunteer to rescue animals
Animal rescue volunteers work with our Animal Rescue Team to help save animals from cruelty and disasters. Apply now to get trained so we can count on you when disaster strikes.
Add your name: Support pet equity
The severe lack of access to pet care and resources is an overlooked national crisis that means many families don’t have what they want and need for their pets. Stand with us today to increase access to affordable veterinary care, pet food and pet-inclusive housing. Pets and their families belong together.
Become a Medical Volunteer with RAVS
Rural Area Veterinary Services (RAVS) supports the health and wellbeing of animals, families and communities impacted by systemic poverty and geographic isolation. Learn how to reduce barriers to animal health resources and expand equitable access to veterinary care.
Dig deeper
We bring a broad vision and deep expertise. Learn more about the obstacles facing pet families and how we are helping to provide resources to pets around the world.
Resources to help you have the best life with your pet.
Across the country, entire communities ban or restrict dogs because of their breed or perceived breed. Breed-based policies aren't founded on science or credible data, but on myths and misinformation surrounding different breeds.
Millions of pet owners live in poverty, and the most common reason people surrender their pet to a shelter is because their landlord doesn’t allow pets or charges an unaffordable pet fee. If this sounds like someone you know, here are resources that can help.
improving the welfare of a community’s dogs and cats improves the overall health of the community. Because everyone deserves to experience the love that a relationship with a companion animal can bring.
Breed-based policies are based on myths and misinformation, rather than science or credible data. However, their impact on dogs, families and animal shelters is heartbreakingly real.
“Food deserts” are areas where affordable and nutritious food is hard to access. Those food deserts often coincide with a lack of veterinary clinics and other pet needs, too.
Your gift can do so much for animals in need.
Start saving lives by making a one-time gift today. Or help animals all year long with a monthly contribution.
Jean Chung/For Humane World for Animals