Founded in 1877, the American Humane Association is the only national organization dedicated to protecting both children and animals. A nonprofit membership organization, American Humane is headquartered in Denver.

Through a network of child and animal protection agencies and individuals, American Humane provides national leadership in developing policies, legislation, curricula and training programs -- and taking actions -- to protect children and animals from cruelty, abuse, neglect and exploitation.

Hundreds of child welfare and child protective services agencies and professionals are members of American Humane. In addition, hundreds of local humane societies, SPCAs and animal control agencies across the country are member organizations of American Humane. As members, those individuals and organizations benefit from the national leadership, expertise, resources, information exchange, trainings and programs that American Humane provides.

American Humane also raises awareness about The Link® between animal abuse and other forms of violence, as well as the benefits derived from the human-animal bond. Our regional office in Los Angeles is the authority behind the No Animals Were Harmed® end credit disclaimer on film and TV productions, and our office in Washington advocates for child and animal protection at the federal and state levels.

For information about our many, effective programs, click here.

...And Who We Are Not

Dedicated to protecting both children and animals, American Humane is not affiliated with the Humane Society of the United States, an organization that promotes the protection of animals. Nor is American Humane a parent organization of local “humane societies” and SPCAs, which are locally based, independent agencies that operate animal shelters and provide animal care and control services to their communities. However, many of those agencies are member organizations of American Humane. As such, they benefit from our trainings, informational and funding resources, and national programs that increase the abilities, knowledge and effectiveness of their organizations and staff.

American Humane works on a national level and does not conduct individual, local child and animal welfare investigations. If you have a question or concern related to the welfare of:

Children in your community (for example, if you witness or suspect child abuse or neglect) -- Contact your local child protective agency. Depending on where you live, this agency might be called Social Services, Children and Family Services, or Human Welfare. If you believe that a child is in an emergency situation, however, call your local law enforcement agency immediately.

Animals in your community (for example, if you want to report a suspected case of animal abuse or neglect, or if you would like to surrender or adopt a pet) -- Contact your local humane society, SPCA, breed rescue groups or animal control agency.

Learn More About Us

For additional information about American Humane, we invite you to explore our website or contact us