With the mission of “prevention, by all proper means, of cruelty to animals and children and the prevention of all cruelty by humane education,”
the Humane Society of Ann Arbor was born.

The cause of animal rights was new and often met with derision and contempt.

An initial resolution wasn’t about dogs or cats… but horses.

“Whereas, The Ann Arbor Humane Society has deputized its officer to inform the livery men that overdriving of horses… will not be allowed. Whereas, We feel that the rapid driving and abuse of horses is frequently caused by the patrons not being ready when called for. Resolved, That the thoughtlessness of the young woman in delaying the carriages which all for them, and which necessitates the overdriving of horses so that appointments may be kept, is one of the most frequent causes for the abuse of horses in Ann Arbor and one which the society feels called upon to condemn. We, therefore, request the young women of the city to be prompt and ready when they expect to be called for, and thus aid in the carrying out of the good work for which the society is organized.”

Advocated for installing dog troughs alongside the drinking fountains and horse troughs in Ann Arbor

 

Originally planned to be 200′ x 80′,  and on Dexter Rd, the cement block shelter on 616 Barber Ave included 3 dog pens, a room for cats with a shelf to “sun themselves,” a utility room with a telephone and desk, and a Cape Cod house for the attendant. It was donated by J.J. Goodyear and his wife.

Our new Junior Humane Society membership gets students involved in animal care and advocacy

 

Our shelter, believed to be one of the finest in the U.S., was built for ~$100,000.
Features include radiant heated floors, an automatic air purification system and fresh drinking water running to all cages.

Peak intake numbers – around 25,000 animals entered the shelter every year – before HSHV opened a clinic for routine spay/neuter surgeries.

We help draft new Animal Welfare Act w/the Michigan Federation of Humane Societies.

Held at Seva Restaurant!

Responding to the high number of pets being turned into the shelter because their owners were either losing their home or job and could not afford to feed their animals any longer, we started the free pet food pantry Bountiful Bowls in October 2008. It still runs today.

A model of excellence in sheltering, prevention services, community support and celebrating the human/animal bond. It includes space for innovative, lifesaving programs, a world-class veterinary care facility including a large scale spay/neuter clinic, an Education Center for youth-based humane education and community activities, and is a welcoming place for both animals and people.

Our current award-winning Humane Education program teaches thousands of kids each year about empathy and compassion.  Kiddos love our day camps, story time, movie nights, birthday parties, tours, junior volunteer opportunities and more.

The first and only cat cafe in Ann Arbor, HSHV’s “Tiny Lions lounge and adoption Center” at 5245 Jackson Road opens to bigger crowds than anticipated. Fulfilling the mission of pairing people with animals, “TLC” is a place to adopt, snuggle, and learn.

With a national charity discontinuing their transportation service, but overrun shelters still needing help, HSHV starts the “Love Train,” helping not only adopt out animals in need from struggling communities, but also providing our community with animals (like puppies!) they want. Adopt, don’t shop!

Honoring local youth for their work in making a positive impact on the lives of animals and people in the community, the first ever HSHV Humane Youth Awards were given to Claire Roffi, Kaitlin Barrett-Huff and Emilia Callan.

Rescued 108 neglected animals confined by wire cages living in unsanitary conditions.

HSHV’s Veterinary Clinic offers house calls for in-home wellness and end-of-life care for those who need it.

97% of the animals who came through our door were returned home or found a new loving home.

Responded to Covid-19 pandemic with new virtual programming, expanding critical support services, and keeping our doors open for homeless and abused animals.

Today HSHV helps 25,000+ animals, people and kids through mission-driven programs and services.   All made possible by 100 caring  employees, nearly 3,000 dedicated  volunteers, and over 15,000 generous and committed donors.