Founded in 1897, Seattle Humane proudly promotes the human-animal bond by saving and serving pets in need. We are one of the region’s leaders in animal adoption, education and welfare. Watch this video to hear how Seattle Humane is more than a shelter – we are a community resource center, providing adoption services, a pet food bank and support for pet owners, low-cost spay/neuter surgeries and wellness exams, humane education for all ages and more. Our work is made possible by the support of a generous community, and through our outreach, advocacy and services we strive to ensure that animal companionship is accessible to all.

In 2022, we are celebrating 125 years of saving lives and completing families. Learn more about our rich past and present, and our vision for the future at seattlehumane125years.org. Seattle Humane is also proud to share our Storyline, an aspirational document intended to paint a clear picture of our five-year strategic vision and where we see ourselves in 2026 and beyond. Seattle Humane promotes the human-animal bond by saving and serving pets in need, regardless of age, ability, circumstance or geography. We believe everyone deserves a chance to experience the love of a pet and the lifelong benefits of the human-animal bond. With this lens, we will continue to expand our programs and services to impact as many lives as possible.

Throughout history, the human-animal bond has played a pivotal role in creating our communities and culture. There is a direct link between human welfare and animal welfare—all life has value.   Systemic issues of inequality and inequity create the pipeline of pets that come to Seattle Humane in need of care and shelter. Animals often end up in shelters due to housing inequities, lack of access to quality veterinary care, and people having to make tough decisions like choosing between an overdue bill and a beloved pet. These societal issues are created and sustained without equal access to quality education, community resources, good job opportunities, and the ability to build generational wealth.  

Understanding that it’s all connected, we are committed to doing our part to break this cycle and build a culture of equity and inclusion in our organization and in animal welfare.  Seattle Humane is, and always will be, a safe place for people from all backgrounds and experiences to unite around a common goal of helping pets in need.  We believe in creating a community of support, showing empathy, understanding, respect, and kindness in our daily lives and in our work at the shelter. We are working to be a greater ally in this wonderful and diverse community we serve.