When it was founded in 1870, the Humane Society of Missouri was dedicated to helping abused and neglected draft horses. Now more than 155 years later, the nonprofit has broadened its mission to advocate for cats, dogs and other domesticated animals, upholding the same commitment to protecting those in need by offering important care. Along with being the largest provider of adoptable pets in Missouri, it is committed to ending the cycle of abuse and overpopulation through rescue efforts, spay and neuter programs, veterinary care and educational classes.
One of the Humane Society’s most important programs is the Animal Cruelty Task Force. “This group is highly trained and investigates cases of abuse and neglect throughout the entire state of Missouri,” president Kathy Warnick explains. “They make sure we can provide animals the care needed for rehabilitation and adoption so they can have a chance at a happy, healthy life.” The task force responds to more than 18,000 reports of abuse and neglect annually. The public can file reports online or by calling 314.647.4400. The team doubles as a crisis response unit that is called across the country to aid in rescues during natural disasters like floods and hurricanes.
Many of the animals rescued by the Animal Cruelty Task Force have been abused and neglected, and the Humane Society uses its resources to give them a second chance at a better life. This includes the veterinary and behavioral care necessary to ensure that they can be adopted. “The shelter and rescue center at our headquarters is always in need of support due to the large number of animals we receive every year,” Warnick notes. Along with care for animals, the Humane Society offers educational opportunities in partnership with local schools. The goal is to offer at-risk children the chance to learn about kindness and empathy for all living creatures.
The Humane Society is independently funded, so donations and fundraising are integral to its survival. “Community support is absolutely crucial to making our mission possible,” Warnick says. “Without the generosity of St. Louisans, we would not be able to offer the programming we do.” Along with state-wide rescue efforts and initiatives at the Humane Society headquarters, the nonprofit also operates Longmeadow Rescue Ranch. Located near Union, Missouri, the ranch is a haven for abused and neglected horses and other farm animals, offering comprehensive care and rehabilitation.
The nonprofit is hosting its Happy Tails Gala on Nov. 7 at The Ritz-Carlton, St. Louis. The Humane Society only hosts the event every five years, making it a special opportunity. Guests can look forward to celebrating the bond between people and their pets. There will be the chance to meet adoptable animals as well as Barn Buddies from Longmeadow Rescue Ranch, including Twister, a rescue horse who learned to paint. “Guests can look forward to a truly magical evening,” Warnick says. “We’re excited to share our mission with St. Louis. Together, we can ensure that every animal in need receives a second chance.”
For more than 155 years, the Humane Society of Missouri has been dedicated to providing care for animals in need. Its mission is to end the cycle of abuse and pet overpopulation through rescue and investigation efforts, spay and neuter programs, and educational classes. Its Happy Tails Gala is Nov. 7 at The Ritz-Carlton, St. Louis. For more information, call 314.647.8800 or visit hsmo.org.
Cover design by Julie Streiler
Pictured at top: The Animal Cruelty Task Force investigates thousands of annual abuse reports annually.
Photo courtesy of the Humane Society of Missouri.