Rescue

Rescue

From natural disasters to animal cruelty investigations, American Humane is on the front lines protecting animals and saving lives in times of crisis.

More than 100 years ago, American Humane first responders deployed to war-ravaged Europe, where we rescued and cared for 68,000 wounded horses every month. In the century since, American Humane has provided lifesaving animal first responder assistance at the sites of virtually every major national disaster response from Pearl Harbor to 9/11, and from Hurricane Sandy and Hurricane Dorian to the novel coronavirus pandemic.

Today, American Humane proudly remains the first to serve animals whenever and wherever animals are in need. Our emergency first-response units and fleet of state-of-the-art rescue vehicles are prepared and always ready to deploy on a moment’s notice to rescue animals in danger.

As such, we continuously adapt our program goals to best serve our animal friends. In the face of the unprecedented coronavirus pandemic, animal rescuers, shelters and first responders need our help. In response, we launched a Feed the Hungry fund to provide much-needed supplies for animals like food, kitty litter and medical supplies. The current worldwide crisis is leaving thousands of animals without homes, closing hundreds of shelters and rescues, and leaving too many hungry in desperate need of supplies. Basic necessities are needed now more than ever, and we are making that a priority.

Rescue Initiatives

Feed the Hungry COVID-19 Fund

Like every other business or organization in America, rescue shelters are struggling to maintain basic services and care for their animal residents in the face of the current worldwide pandemic.…

Disaster Response

American Humane’s Rescue units are stationed across the country to ensure a swift response whenever and wherever animals are in crisis. Our first responders travel the nation with a fleet…

Emergency Training

We know firsthand that preparedness can be the difference between life and death for animals when disasters strike. That’s why, throughout the year, American Humane offers disaster preparedness training courses…

Community Events

Local animal shelters and law enforcement agencies regularly request support from American Humane in responding to natural disasters and large-scale animal cruelty investigations. American Humane also helps communities plan for…

Adopt-A-Dog Month®

Since 1981, American Humane has celebrated “Adopt-a-Dog Month®” each October in an effort to help the estimated 3-4 million animals waiting in shelters every year get the loving, forever homes…

Adopt-A-Cat Month®

American Humane celebrates Adopt-A-Cat Month® each June – a month that also marks the height of “kitten season,” when millions of kittens are born and often end up in animal shelters.

Be Kind to Animals Week®

Building a better world for all of us begins with a few simple actions and American Humane, the country’s first national humane organization, is challenging people to commit to protecting…

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News & Updates

Triumph Over Tragedy: Rescued Cats from Tennessee Hoarding Crisis Find Healing

Last year, American Humane responded to a dire situation in Tennessee, where 110 cats were enduring the devastating effects of a hoarding crisis. The initial rescue operation was fraught with challenges, as the rescue team had to wear full personal protective equipment (PPE) due to the hazardous levels of ammonia and an overwhelming amount of cat fur. The distressing scene…
February 27, 2024

Tails of Triumph: April & Waffles

Looking back at 2023, I can’t help but reflect with gratitude on the incredible and fulfilling journey I’ve had this year. From deploying to save animals in the aftermath of devastating natural disasters to facilitating heartwarming reunifications of Military Working Dogs, this year has been filled with challenges, triumphs, and unforgettable moments – especially one in particular for me. Last…
January 19, 2024

American Humane’s lifesaving emergency rescue program is made possible through the generous support of our sponsors: