In 2013, Maricopa County was one of the worst places to be a pet. Shelters were facing the second-worst pet overpopulation crisis in the United States. The Arizona Humane Society was a large rescue shelter, taking in thousands of homeless animals, but there were still many pets with treatable illnesses being euthanized throughout the state.

We knew a radical shift in thinking was needed to save more animal lives. So, we began systematically launching multiple initiatives to care for the most vulnerable in our community. Today, we take in the pets that other shelters can’t care for: the ones who are sick, who are injured, or who would normally be euthanized in other shelters because of their tough medical needs. We serve as a safety net for the Valley’s most vulnerable pets, and our Ethical No-Kill Philosophy™ ensures we never euthanize a pet for space or based on the length of time they’ve been with us. And every effort has been worth it. Since 2013, we’ve reduced euthanasia by 83%—that’s 130,000 additional lives saved. Here’s how we’re transforming animal welfare in Arizona.

Our Emergency Animal Medical Technicians™ (EAMTs™) are out in the community seven days a week responding to reports of injured strays and abused pets. And when they find a pet who needs help, our vets are waiting for them at our Second Chance Animal Trauma Hospital™. This hospital* is the largest shelter-based trauma hospital in the Southwest, and we treat nearly 11,000 homeless pets every year.

Many owners love their pets but struggle to care for them due to housing instability or financial struggles. We tackle this issue from multiple angles: Our two veterinary clinics provide affordable care and connect our customers with additional financial aid when needed. Our Pet Resource Center (PRC) connects members of our community with resources to help them keep their beloved pet. And through our Project Home Away From Home, we provide temporary pet foster care through our Foster Heroes until they’re able to get back on their feet.