The Humane Society of the United States

The Humane Society of the United States is the nation's largest animal protection organization, rated the most effective by its peers. Since 1954, we've been fighting for the protection of all animals through advocacy, education and hands-on programs. The HSUS is a mainstream voice for animals, with active programs in companion animals, wildlife and habitat protection, animals in research and farm animals. We protect all animals through legislation, litigation, investigation, education, science, advocacy and field work. And we rescue and care for tens of thousands of animals each year, but our primary mission is to prevent cruelty before it occurs.

We work with residents, animal welfare professionals and policy makers to support animal welfare legislation, fight animal cruelty in all forms and engage citizens to promote the protection of animals.

Here in West Virginia, we work to pass laws to better protect our animals, we provide valuable training to law enforcement throughout the state, assist the public with handling cases of animal cruelty, and provide educational opportunities to animal advocates of all ages.

In recent years, we passed legislation in WV increasing penalties for those that conduct or attend an animal fight, also added offenses for bringing a minor to a fight and gambling on a fight.

Every year, our state director and other experts, provide free training to law enforcement across the state…and also provide ongoing support to those officers and prosecutors throughout the year, as cases arise.

Other work we do here in West Virginia includes coordinating events, like Humane Lobby Day, which help to educate the public and bring advocates together to ensure elected officials are aware of issues in our state and the desires of their constituents to address those issues through legal improvements.

Volunteers can assist with event planning and promotions, law enforcement outreach and support, legislative efforts (local and/or state level), humane education for children-adults, advocacy training, and/or shelter outreach and support - there are many ways to get involved and we're happy to consider new and innovative ideas as well!