The Humane Society of the United States (HSUS) has worked since 1954 to promote the protection of all animals. With nearly ten million members and constituents, The HSUS is the nation’s largest and most powerful animal protection organization, working in the United States and abroad to defend the interests of animals. We celebrate the human-animal bond, and we fight animal cruelty and abuse in all of its forms.



We work to reduce suffering and to create meaningful social change for animals by advocating for public policies to protect animals, investigating cruelty and working to enforce existing laws, educating the public about the issues, and conducting hands-on programs, such as assisting animals when disasters strike.



Our major campaigns target four primary issues:



- factory farming,

- animal fighting and other forms of animal cruelty,

- the fur trade, and

- inhumane sport hunting practices.



The aim of The Humane Society of the United States may seem simple promoting the protection of all animals—but it requires a wide range of actions and strategies. Since its establishment in 1954, The HSUS has developed programs to take on animal abuse and exploitation wherever it occurs.



Our mission covers a surprisingly broad range of concerns: Companion Animals works with pet owners, the animal-care and control community, and legislators. Wildlife and Habitat Protection strives to protect wildlife in their natural habitats as well as in captivity. Likewise, our Marine Mammals staff fights for better conditions, both in the wild and in captivity, for whales, manatees and other at-risk marine mammals.



Animal Research campaigns to raise awareness of the pain and distress suffered by animals used in research, while Investigative Services works to expose animal fighting, the fur trade, greyhound racing, and the Norwegian whaling industry, among other issues.