About Us

The Humane Society for Tacoma & Pierce County was founded by a handful of concerned citizens and has grown into one of the state’s largest animal welfare agencies. We care for around 10,000 pets each year, reunite thousands of lost pets with their owners, provide medical care for ill and injured shelter pets, and offer comprehensive low-cost spay-neuter programs.

Our Mission

Our mission is to champion the welfare of animals and promote positive relationships between animals and people.

Our Vision

We envision a Washington State where every pet has a permanent and loving home and all animals are treated with respect and compassion.

Our History

The shelter was founded in 1888 by a group of revolutionaries and animal welfare champions who questioned the status quo to help prevent cruelty toward animals in the community. When Tacoma was just a frontier town, a drunken logger brought a bear cub to a local street corner and began kicking him to get him to perform tricks. The Justice of the Peace was summoned, and the logger was arrested. Later that week, a group of town leaders met to form what is now called the Humane Society for Tacoma & Pierce County.

We Care for All Animals

As a rare open admission shelter, we take in pets no matter their age, breed, medical issues, or behavioral problems.

We Keep Pets With Their People

Our Community Clinic offers affordable lifesaving medical care. Our Pet Food Pantry provides needed pet food for anyone having a difficult time filling their pet’s dish. Our Pet Support Counseling helps keep pets with their families instead of having to be surrendered. 

We Don’t Euthanize for Time or Space

Our shelter does not euthanize animals for time or space. We only consider euthanasia in two situations:

• • An animal is terminally ill and in pain and suffering.
  • Behavior that is dangerous to public safety.

Read more about our euthanasia policy.

We Rely on the Community

We are a non-profit organization that relies on the generosity of individuals, corporations, and foundations to advance our mission. Our loyal donors are vital to our success and our ability to provide the best possible care for the animals we serve.