Humane Rescue Alliance

I appreciated Great Nonprofits' invitation to write a review of the Humane Rescue Alliance (WashDC), because I wish I could write something positive from the donor point of view. Unfortunately, the last 18 months have steadily eroded my confidence in how HRA is using its monies -- whether through contributions, corporate program grants, or local government grants. Although I have donated to them for more than 10 years, I have removed them as a beneficiary in my will because despite repeated requests since last October -- and at the recommendation of my attorney -- the CEO, COO, CDO and Development Department have not even responded, let alone provided a copy of HRA's Bylaws and Governing Documents.

Well before the Covid pandemic lockdown, HRA had already drastically reduced or suspended essential animal welfare services such as trap-neuter-return (TNR) for community cats (2018) and low-cost spay/neuter operations (2019). After four years of non-activity, it permanently eliminated low-cost spay/neuter services to the general public in February 2023. Other services like low-cost vaccine clinics and pet wellness exams for the general public have never made it back to pre-pandemic rates of service. And HRA is the largest animal welfare organization in the Washington D.C. metropolitan area -- including Northern Virginia and suburban Maryland.

Prior to all of this, HRA had received a $5 million grant from the D.C. Government in 2015 to purchase property on which to build a new state-of-the-art animal welfare and adoption facility. A full NINE YEARS LATER, no foundation stone has even been laid, let alone a structure built up and running. In the meantime, HRA is contesting the $3+ million property tax bills plus penalties and interest that it hasn't paid since 2021. This vacant property is now valued at $10+ million. All of this information is publicly available in the Office of Tax and Revenue's database.

The staff at HRA are constantly overworked and underpaid. Yet the CEO makes $380,000 a year (from the most recent Form-990 filed by non-profits). Any competent HR officer would look at the rates of compensation, burnout, and turnover and want to make improvements. Posted vacancies go unfilled for six or more months. Salaries and hourly rates are below or barely equal to private veterinary practice, when in fact they should be much higher than private practices, who tend to see well-cared for pets with conscientious owners. Shelter vets and veterinary technicians see the toughest cases of animal abuse/cruelty, abandonment, and hoarding. They work unpredictable hours, are on emergency call, and often witness the saddest results from disease, injury, and untreated conditions.

I still donate to Humane Rescue Alliance, but only to their RESTRICTED FUNDS fighting animal abuse and for emergency medical care. I would not want my money to go to a ridiculous CEO salary or paying off a delinquent property tax bill. I am very sad to write this review because I expected much more from an organization like this.

First of all, this is NOT a "Great Non-Profit." I have watched with dismay and horror as the Humane Rescue Alliance has lurched from crisis to crisis -- and some of their own making. The work culture is apparently so toxic that Glass Door, Indeed, and HRA's own "Careers" page are filled with vacancies that go unfilled for 6+ months, along with the low ratings on GD and Indeed. The frequent staff turnovers, volunteer firings for calling attention to deficiencies and problems, the reduction/elimination of essential services, spiking kill rates, and stonewalling of donors are terrible signs of decline for a non-profit, ANY non-profit.

Also the description of the Humane Rescue Alliance is woefully inaccurate. I'm not sure who is responsible for checking these things, but HRA does not offer low-cost spay/neuter services to the general public anymore; there hasn't been an active CatNipp program for outdoor/community cats for several years.

Two of my animal-loving friends have removed HRA from their wills, and after several unsuccessful attempts to obtain a copy of HRA's Bylaws and governing documents to show my financial advisor, it's likely that I will not include them in my will as well. As a donor, I am extremely disappointed in HRA, its CEO, and its tone deaf board of directors. I would certainly urge any donors to instruct that their donations go to restricted funds for medical care and humane law enforcement/animal abuse, and ensure their hard-earned money does not go to the general operations fund and the bloated CEO's salary of $385,000+.

Unfortunately, Humane Rescue Alliance is not doing right by the animals served, and is actively working against community organizers attempting to help the organization improve.

Problems include
- A very high kill rate (~40% of dogs not reclaimed by owners in 2019 & 2020: https://njanimalobserver.com/2021/12/30/humane-rescue-alliances-horrible-high-kill-shelter/?mibextid=Zxz2cZ).
- Attempts to make the kill rate look better (likely to align with public image) by pressuring "owner requested euthanasia" for surrenders (which it is legally obligated to take).
- Very low thresholds for behavioral & medical euthanasia
- Inability to staff sufficiently to maintain clean conditions & ensure dogs get out of kennels twice per day
- Inability to prevent illness spread, with three active epidemic outbreaks in Sept 23 across two species.

As a volunteer, what has been particularly frustrating is that the organization actively rejects offers of volunteer help. In my few months as a volunteer, I have seen

- Volunteers asked to step down from support positions when they provided advice to adopters instead of directing adopters to the behavior team, which had a 5+ day waiting time to respond to requests for support at the time
- Volunteers asked not to use the existing foster network to recruit fosters for dogs struggling in the shelter. At least 3 of the dogs recognized by volunteers as needing additional support wound up euthanized. Volunteers recognized the need for help 2-4+ weeks prior to the euthanization, during which the dogs were eligible for foster & adoption. None of these dogs were matched with a foster during this time, and the volunteers were not allowed to send asks to the foster network seeking fosters for these dogs.
- Volunteer coordinators ignoring requests to highlight new volunteer orientations for specific shelter approved but volunteer run programs. Volunteer coordinators also have ignored numerous emails from volunteers offering to start new programs to support the additional intake, including marketing support for additional volunteers, in shelter training & enrichment programs, foster outreach, and foster support.
- Volunteers were invited to sign up for a round table with CEO & new COO at 5pm on a weekday. While one note mentioned sign ups were limited, all volunteers got a confirmation from the form after it was submitted. Upon reaching out for confirmation that meant we were all set on the day of the event, volunteers who asked were noted that no, actually only a few spots were open and confirmations individually sent. This led to volunteers leaving work early & being turned away at the door. No zoom options were allowed (volunteers asked) and volunteers posting on fb regarding the invite-only aspect had their comments deleted (even though said comments would have avoided people showing up after taking time off from work and being turned away)
- Finally, it's been frustrating to see public lies regarding the state of the shelter. Lies have included claims all dogs are walked twice a day (obviously not true to volunteers who show up to walk) and appearances of being a progressive shelter with great behavioral support and excellent outcomes.

I also recently learned the CEO makes over $400k per year. One analysis of open data revealed this salary is more than 5x the salary of comparable shelter directors. With that salary, and spending per animal approximately double other shelters, the terrible outcomes of the shelter and horrible volunteer engagement cannot be explained as a lack of resources.

Across the river, the Animal Welfare League of Arlington, another open access shelter, has nearly no dogs available for adoption, due to resounding success in finding adopters. Most dogs in the care of the shelter are in foster homes. Walking through the shelter, it is quiet and calm and smells good. Perhaps all HRA would need to do to improve is hand over the reins to their neighbor?

You need to update your homepage for Humane Rescue Alliance. THEY HAVE NOT OFFERED LOW-COST SPAY/NEUTER SERVICES TO THE PUBLIC SINCE AUGUST 2019, well before the Covid pandemic started. HRA's current website makes no mention of spay/neuter or if low-cost surgeries will ever resume. It has been three years, and most other shelters resumed spay/neuter operations during the spring-summer of 2021, after the Covid vaccine became generally available. HRA was also supposed to build a new state-of-the-art animal shelter and medical center with multiple surgical suites, living quarters for veterinary interns, etc. and was raising funds through a capital campaign that started in 2010, but that project hasn't been heard from since 2018.

While I only donate a small amount to HRA, I now specify that the money goes to medical necessities only, not to the general operating budget. How can an organization call itself a "national leader in animal welfare," and not provide low-cost spay/neuter services for 3+ years? I am not sure what HRA's priorities are anymore.

The dedication and professionalism provided by this organization, as well as the friendliness of the staff and volunteers is unparalleled to anything you will ever experience. God bless them for the work they do!

The recently merged Washington Humane Society (WHS)-Washington Animal Rescue League is DC's primary nonprofit organization dedicated to the protection, welfare and well-being of DC's homeless animals, in an effort to help them find their new, forever homes . WHS-WARL's primary mission is to provide care for animals in need, and ensure they find loving, safe and secure environments. In an effort to raise critical funds for these animals in needs, WIHS-WARL, hosts a variety of fun, social fundraising events throughout the year, including Fashion for Paws, Bark Ball, Sugar & Champagne Affair, among many others. WIHS-WARL's staff is passionate and driven to help make a difference in these animal's lives. From animals that are forfeited for a variety of reasons, to animals that are in dire need of medical attention in life-threatening situations, WIHS-WARL has the capacity to help and provide proper care.

Washington Humane Society helped me to bring my cat home to her Forever Home. They truly are a wonderful organization with excellent programs, and adorable pets.

This is a fantastic group that addresses the homeless animal crisis from every possible angle: education, spay/neuter, medical attention, advocacy, rescue, humane law enforcement, community engagement, training, etc. The staff is completely dedicated to the cause and money donated is used responsibly and wisely. As a WHS volunteer, donor, and two-time adopter I can honestly say it is the best animal-related organization I have known. They have some of the most innovative programs you could imagine like the PACK program and an annual architectural competition for stray cat habitats. Can't say enough positive things about his group.

This is a fantastic organization that works hard to save the lives of thousands of animals in the DC area. I have been involved in supporting WHS for years and am immensely grateful for the work that they do.

The Washington Humane Society is superb. I have been sponsoring cats through them for over a year. They are wonderful at socializing and then finding homes for abandoned cats.

I've been a supporter of the organization for years. I've adopted, fostered, and volunteered for tho organization they are really wonderful.

This is a great organization, committed to the welfare of the animal population of the Distrct of Columbia. I make an annual contribution.

We adopted our first family dog from the Washington Humane Society. She was a boxer, about a year old, had probably been bait in the training of pit bulls (so the staff thought -- based on her scarred front paws and animosity to other dogs) and had given birth to a litter. She had been found living on the streets and we could literally count every bone in her spine and every rib. Christmas was approaching, so she became Mistletoe or Missy. For the next 15 years, Missy was our attentive nurse whenever someone was sick enough to stay home for school or work, our protector when we met a bear at our mountainous Virginia weekend cabin (really), and our beloved companion even after we left Washington for New York City. If the staff at the Humane Society had not saved Missy from the streets or if they had not taken the time to explain her needs and issues while assuring us that her pathetic exterior and frightened demeanor hid a wonderful dog, we would never have been able to share her love and affection for all those years. When the end of her life finally came, our veterinarian would not believe Missy was over 16. "Boxes do not live that long," he said. We showed him her adoption papers and explained that we knew it was love that had kept Missy alive so many years -- ours for her and hers for us. We will always be grateful to the WHA for helping is to love a wonderful creature.

I completely adore WHS. My first pet was a loving, precious Tabby who was adopted from the WHS back in 1989 by my husband and me. She was our "first" child as a married couple and she became my reason for being! She lived 19 magic years and gave us so much happiness. As a way of giving back we have supported WHS by donating both time and money to their various events and causes. I have been a Fashion for Paws model for three years and raised over 10,000 my first year all in an effort to help out an organization that does so much for the animals and animal lovers in the DC area. I can't say enough about the WHS and their leaders and volunteers!

I have been a supporter of WHS for years now. I adopted my two fur babies from one of their shelters and was so impressed with all that the manage to accomplish, especially on a limited budget. The organization as a whole, the shelter staff, the administrative officers, the Board -- every single one takes his or her role in protecting animals so enough good things!

As a long time contributor to WHS I have been amazed at the wonderful progress they have made in the past years in sheltering, healing and sending increasingly large numbers of animals off to new homes. The percentage of animals that cross their doorstep and have happy outcomes has grown astronomically. They are the only shelter I know of that accepts and cares for all animals in need, and never turns an animal away. So, when I decided to adopt a pet, I adopted my beloved new friend there. I was so impressed with the care and caring of the staff and the professionalism of the adoption process that I soon became a monthly supporter, pet sponsor and a volunteer. I somehow don't think five stars are enough to describe the Washington Humane Society!

WHS serves and represents the whole of the animal population of the District of Columbia. I have adopted, donated and volunteered. The staff are dedicated, thoughtful and caring about the welfare of their "clients".

There are many animal rescue leagues within the greater metro DC area, and Washington Humane Society is definitely a standout! I love how the staff really seems to enjoy what they do. It can be seen in how they care for, and interact with the animals and with the potential families searching for their furry kids.

We adopted a 4 &1/2 year old rescue cat (#Pete) from WHS during their special "Catnado" event, and he along with the professionalism and love shown by WHS staffers, has definitely inspired us to personally donate and help in an ongoing effort to raise funds supporting other rescues in their care waiting for their forever homes.

So, if you're thinking of adding to your family, you should definitely visit WHS! Our experience has been extremely rewarding, and we even volunteered to write a blog detailing our little guy which can be found here: http://washhumane.typepad.com/blog/2015/08/alumni-update-pete.html

Washington Human Society (WHS) is simply amazing. My wonderful cat (who is in many ways like my soulmate - animal lovers will understand:)) somehow got out of our house while being cared for by an animal sitter and the sitter could not find him. We were frantic and half-way around the world. While we were en-route back home to try to find him, WHS helped out by looking for him, setting-up a humane cat trap, putting up flyers in the neighborhood and putting his information on their website. Eventually when we found him (after he had been outside for a total of 9 days without food or water) hidden in a back corner crawl space under our deck and could not get him to come out a WHS officer who was incredible climbed under the deck and retrieved him. WHS saved his life. I LOVE the WHS.

As a volunteer, donor, foster parent, and 2-time adopter from WHS I have had a positive experience in every aspect. I have only great things to say about WHS - what they do for the DC metro area and beyond is absolutely amazing!

Washington humane society started a volunteer program called the people animal cardio club. This program allows volunteers to pick up a dog from the shelter and take the pup for a run in the park along with several others. This helps the animals socialize and gives all involved a great work out. We always have a great time and WHS has "adopt me" vets for all the dogs so that everyone around knows they are up for adoption. Excellent program!

The Washington Humane Society (WHS) is a great organization that plays an important role in DC. The staff is incredibly dedicated to the mission and cares deeply about animal welfare. I have worked here, volunteered here, fostered, and adopted. WHS takes great strides to ensure that animals are treated as individuals and receive the help they need - whether behavioral or medical. WHS regularly heals animals with diseases that would have been grounds for euthanasia at other shelters. As the open-access shelter in DC, WHS deals with an immense number of animals that come through the doors with extremely limited facilities and does it well. I am proud to support WHS and will continue to do so knowing that my money will be well-used to care for animals and their caretakers.

WHS is a spectacular organization that combines traditional and contemporary outreach platforms to maximize their ability to help animals, educate the public, and raise the awareness to all demographics in the DC, Virginia, and Maryland area. They are a 5 star organization.

I had been looking to adopt a new pet to join my family. After a long search via online profiles and pictures, I finally found the one. He was not at one of the shelter locations but at a foster, so I was given the connection to deal directly with the foster. I set a date to meet the kitten at her home to see if the adoption would be a good fit for kitten & me. It was love at first site. A well cared for 3 month old BEAUTIFUL little boy. No typical kitten issues of messy litter box habits, or any illness, gooey eyes and/or snotty noses. I then went to the GA Ave Shelter to do my interview and be processed for adoption. Kitten was about due for another booster, so they processed that for me and gave it to him, so I wouldn't have to bring him back. A quick and painless interview to see if we were a good fit for each other and kitten was MINE!! Very reasonable $85 adoption fee as opposed to ther local rescues who ask upwards of $300.

It's been almost a month since he's joined his 2 older kitty brothers in his new home and everyone is adjusting WONDERFULLY!!! He's playful, sweet, loving, SUPER LOUD purrrererr, eats well, uses his box well and hasn't destroyed my couch :-) So happy to have had the opportunity to work with the great staff & foster staff to meet this guy and make him apart of my life!!!

I really love this organization and all that they do for the animals of WDC. The staff are wonderful and truly care about the animals that they work with and connecting adoptable animals into their forever homes.
After volunteering in their offices, I finally adopted a cat 2 years ago at an event. Everything was really easy and I appreciated that they took the time to ensure that you did understand what you are getting into and ensuring that you live in an environment conducive to adopting an animal.
I cannot say enough great things about them and support them whenever I can with donations or volunteering my time.

I have been involved as a volunteer fundraiser for the WHS and have always been impressed with the new and innovative ways that the WHS raises funds for the animals that they love so much. I then became a foster parent and later adopted a dog of my own. The WHS did a terrific job to find me a dog that suited my desires as well as knowing what the dog needed in a home. It was a perfect match which is hard to come by.

Can't say enough good things about WHS. The 90%+ live release rate says it all. They truly believe every animal deserves a chance.

I am a proud board member. An outstanding top notch organization that does truly amazing work to care for the animals in our nations Capitol.

We adopted our dog from WHS. We talked with the staff about our needs, since we have small children in the house. They did a great job telling us about the dogs in foster care and in the shelter. Their matchmaking worked and we adopted the sweetest velcro pitbull.

The care they give the animals is extraordinary. Our dog had been turned in by her family after it was hit by car and they could not afford to pay for her care. We were impressed that WHS tried to help the family work out payments or other financial options, rather than just rehoming the dog.

WHS has challenges as an urban shelter with fewer resources and a smaller potential adoptive population than some of their suburban counterparts. They overcome these challenges by being highly visible in the community, including a clever idea to take animals out to places of employment (for those who live in the suburbs) and shopping centers. We have been so very pleased to support their challenging and important work.

The success and dynamic evolution of this organization relative to its ambitious goals are well documented. Credit must be given the WHS professional staff that have an incredible commitment to the mission, are also top tier professionals in their fields and bring a collective level of energy, professionalism and team work that should be the envy of any non-profit organization.

I am a former volunteer, and client served, and have mixed feelings about this organization. Undoubtedly they do a great job with adoptions, and clearly all the volunteers and staff at their facilities care about the animals, but operationally there are areas in serious need of improvement. The foster program here is incredibly robust, but with over 300 animals in foster care the facilities do not seem to have the staffing or systems in place to support the caregivers. It is difficult to schedule appointments for fostered animals, and difficult to even have a medical staff member call or email (their preferred method of communication) back within 24 hours, even in emergencies, i.e., tiny bottle-fed kittens losing fluids rapidly due to GI problems. And this is a repetitive issue, happening not just to me and not just one time. This inability for volunteers and fosters to communicate with staff does not serve the animals well, and must surely lead to a significant turnover in their volunteer rosters. The vets at WHS are overloaded, leading to their frustration levels matching the volunteers'. The services offered at the Spay and Neuter Clinic are terrific, and certainly needed and appreciated broadly in the community, but the phone line at that center seems to be staffed by an answering machine, making it very difficult for people to ask specific questions concerning the walk-in clinic services, before/without showing up in person. With a tiny waiting room, the public is left lined up waiting out on the sidewalk with their pets on Saturdays, often for over an hour. The need is so great that they have a free-standing take-a-number dispenser for patrons to use, and it is not a given that a volunteer or staff member will appear to check the line or see if there are any simple questions to be answered. I adopted my pet here, which was seamless--since I had fostered him, I was even able to complete the adoption over the telephone (when someone THERE called ME). But they told me they would mail me his microchip tag and information, which did not happen. I called and left a message a couple of weeks later about this, and I never received a reply or anything in the mail. So, I applaud the WHS mission and the low-cost services they provide at their Spay and Neuter Clinic/Walk-in Vaccination Clinic, but cannot give them a glowing review in terms of their ability to deliver their services efficiently, or to communicate with volunteers/fosters or with the general public when it comes to questions concerning the health or appointments needed for foster animals, or about services their clinic offers.

I am beyond humbled by the work and dedication provided by WHS. Though I live in VA I fostered and adopted my dog through WHS based on their mission, dedication, assistance and overall understanding of 'this' business. The dog I adopted had been severely abused. WHS stood next to me and assisted at any time I needed help. They took my calls, they met me at the Specialist office (!) and never let me down. I am at a point of considering getting a second dog and WHS will be my go to place. I have found their fund raising efforts to be innovative and humbling all at the same time. I know where my money is going and I know how it is being spent I am thrilled to have such a stellar organization available to me and I believe they have set the standard for other groups to measure themselves against.

WHS had taken the Live Release Rate from 20% to 90% during the present CEO's tenure. Using sound business practices and policies, it becomes the norm for animals to leave the shelter to a good home, often through foster care. Thank you!!!

The Team at WHS does great work caring for animals in our nation's capital. The continue to provide new and innovative ways to support the community. The best in class staff are always providing exciting and fun opportunities for their supporters to help them fulfill their mission as well.

The Washington Humane Society's love and care shows through the kindness they show the animals they rescue. I've the proud "mom" of two rescues, one from the Georgia Ave. shelter and the other from the New York Ave. shelter. I'm especially happy that they conduct $5 pet adoption days (and other promotions) to encourage pet ownership -- that finding loving homes tops trying to recoup any costs. They carefully screen those who wish to adopt, ensuring lasting homes and managed expectations. Thanks for all you do!

As animal lovers, our family is grateful for WHS. The passion of both their volunteers and their staff is just astounding, and their commitment to helping their animals and the animals of DC is endless. Not only are they saving countless lives, but they are changing and molding how the DC community interacts with and understands their pets and animals in general. Our family has interacted with WHS through volunteering, adoption and attending many events, and they never disappoint. Their compassion is infectious, and they are helping to shape and better DC.

My company partners with WHS and their efforts in animal rescue. Once a month, they bring their Adopt Force One mobile adoption center to our office and we assist in manning it for a few hours, showing of adoptable animals, and introducing animals to the community. It's great to see animals find fur-ever homes but it's also great to show the community what loving creatures rescue animals are. In addition to the mobile adoptions, they have great events to raise money and awareness for animal rescue as well as Pack runs to get adoptable animals out and about on weekends. A wonderful organization that fights for a worthy cause!

I work with organizations that support and work in animal welfare, I volunteered for the WHS, I fostered for the WHS, and I adopted my pets from the WHS. Their commitment to supporting DC animals and the owners that love them exceeds all standards. Their network of volunteers is one of envy and the entire team works tirelessly to ensure all DC animals find love and a home. I am proud to play a small role and am grateful for their work.

I have been volunteering for Washington Humane Society for the past 6+ years. Most of my work has been in the Administrative Offices and I have seen it develop into the strong organization it is today. Leadership is evident and growth is to be expected when you have this level of dedication and experience of staff and volunteers. Monies given to Washington Humane Society are used wisely and always with the customer (animals/community) in mind. Washington Humane Society continues to excel in animal care, whether it is thru the day to day operations, events, community education, or law enforcement. The future looks bright and I am happy to play a small part in the development.

Last year when my dear cat of 18 years passed away, I found myself at the Washington Humane Society, looking for a new buddy. I had spent time looking at various rescue organizations and their cats on line, but I kept coming back to the Washington Humane Society - they do so much work for the community and community animals that I wanted to support them. I'm really glad I did. The volunteers and adoption staff couldn't have been nicer - they were thoughtful, patient and kind, and they knew about the animals in their care. I ended up adopting a sweet 1 year old female cat. She and I have been great pals, and she has brought so much joy into my and my family's life. Just a few months ago I went back to WHS and adopted a younger male cat. They are the best of friends. The whole experience seemed to be a perfect combination of what WHS does - care for the animals, work incredibly hard to find them good homes, and look out for their Washington DC community. I'll be forever grateful to them!

The ENTIRE team at WHS - from the volunteers, to staff , to Fosters, to board members, were so wonderful with our adoption process. They helped with every detail and question to ensure that we found, and were prepared for, the most perfect furry family member. Even post-adoption, WHS checked in on us and provided resources to help us with our pup’s transition. We could not be more pleased with the process and so thrilled with our new dog. She is a joy to be around and was clearly very loved before coming to her forever home. WHS also offers a cadre of services once you are part of the WHS-family. The assistance with training, vaccinations, and dog friendly events is such an added bonus to this wonderful organization.

I've been volunteering for years, and even run the volunteer program for my large organization, so I'm sensitive to how volunteers are treated when donating their time. My involvement with the Washington Humane Society (WHS) has only grown in the past two years not just because I love animals, but because the programs that allow me to be involved in any way I am able and willing is well executed, thoughtful, appreciated, and supported. The staff does great work, under the strong leadership of the organization, and as a volunteer I feel very much a part of the mission to help all animals in our community. It is hard work, and can be emotionally draining, but even with very little, the WHS family continues to do everything possible to make lives better for all animals in our community whether under WHS care or in a loving home.

Adopting my pet from the Washington Humane Society was a tremendous experience. The staff is knowledgeable, compassionate and take the time to connect potential adoptive families with the perfect animal.

WHS connected me with my perfect little pup in 2012. Ever since, I have been proud to help such a wonderful organization in any way I possibly can. The team at WHS is beyond tireless and dedicated to their cause. My favorite thing about WHS is that EVERYTHING is always about the animals first and foremost; they never stray from that focus, even during black tie fundraisers! I truly believe in the work that WHS does and will continue to do my small part to help them!

Working with WHS is so rewarding. I know that I'm helping the dogs find their forever homes and, since I can't have a dog myself, I really value any time I can spend with the pups. There's nothing quite like the joy of witnessing an animal be adopted. The staff at WHS are truly dedicated and I love volunteering with them.

Words can't begin to express my respect for the staff and volunteers at the Washington Humane Society. Every single staff member and volunteer are wholeheartedly committed to their mission -- to protect and care for our nation's neediest animals.

It never ceases to amaze me the tireless energy and passion each WHS person brings to their job. Their commitment is evidenced by their engagement with Washington DC community at large.

It's been a privilege of co-chairing one of their largest fundraising events for the last five years -- it's a check I happily write every year.

Recently, after the death of our long time rescue dog, we set about the process of finding our next pup. After a negative experience with another rescue organization not based in DC, I turned to a friend who is a long time member of WHS leadership and she of course recommended WHS and boy was she right. Our entire experience from our first browsing visit through the post-adoption period Has been professional caring and thorough. The volunteers love the animals they are there to help. The staff provides accurate and complete information. They follow up to make sure all is going well and provide additional support when needed. We have a loving new member of our home thanks to WHS and their work.

I am so impressed with what WHS has been able to do in policing animal abusers. I always thought WHS was just to house and care for animals before they were to be adopted, but this organization does so much more, and I am so happy to support them as they provided me with one of my most precious gifts - my canine daughter, Roux.

WHS is a great organization. As a Donor and event volunteer, I see firsthand the difference they make in animals lives. The staff is kind, professional, and remember people and their animals. They rescue every animal known to man and work with the local law enforcement to help prosecute those who commit animal cruelty.

I have seen where my money has gone and I am happy to give it to such a well-run organization. You can see that they all care about the animals, from the people with the fancy titles to those helping hold/console an injured animal when they are brought in. I am a big fan of WHS and I thank them for rescuing our adopted dog.

I have been involved with the Washington Humane Society for more than ten years, and I am honored and privileged to serve on its board of directors. WHS has become one of the nation's leading animal welfare organizations, with programs that touch thousands of member of the Washington community, both animal and human. From Dog Tags training for wounded soldiers to humane education, animal protection, sheltering, spay-neuter and dozens of other programs, WHS works year round to strengthen the animal-human bond. There are a lot of good non-profits out there, but this one is a true superstar.

Kind, devoted staff but I always sense that something is incredibly off at this place. No real transparency. And the devoted staff? - they can't seem to hang onto them. Otherwise, I commend their efforts.

My first experience with WHS was over 12 years ago when we adopted our pup from them. Since then, I have volunteered with them to help in whatever way I can. The work they do in the community is tireless and needed - they advocate for all animals, save lives, and do everything possible to reduce violence toward living beings in our community. I can't say enough positive things about them!

As a former board member and volunteer, I have seen this organization grow from what was perceived in the community to be the "animal shelter" become one of the most effective animal welfare organizations in the U.S. While it runs the D.C. animal shelter for the District of Columbia, it has numerous other programs that benefit animals and the larger community. Adoptions, animal behavior training, humane education, spay and neuter and Humane Law Enforcement.

What sets WHS apart from other rescue organizations and non-profits -
- it carries out is mission effectively
- it constantly reviews its performance and makes changes wherever possible to make it better
- It has improved its performance in measurable ways. For example, the number and percentages of animal adopted from its shelters has increased significantly over the past several years
- It is fiscally responsible
- It has a dynamic, dedicated team of staff and volunteers and an engaged and qualified board of directors

Much of the credit for the organization's remarkable performance belongs to its current president, Lisa LaFontaine. While she is charismatic, hard working and an excellent spokesperson for WHS, perhaps her most impressive but least-noticed accomplishment has been to put in place a team of exceptionally qualified and dedicated senior managers. This has enabled her to focus on many important matters besides day-to-day staff and program management.

Overall, a first-rate organization in every way.

As a 20 year nonprofit veteran, I am blown away by the level and quality of work WHS does for the animals and community of Washington, DC. From cruelty prevention and humane education, to controlling the community cat population, to offering low-cost spaying and neutering to the public and providing loving care for thousands of stray and abandoned animals, WHS is everything an animal welfare organization should be. The staff is dedicated, passionate, and caring and they are always looking at ways to improve and innovate.

I started out my relationship with WHS as an adopter (yay Mr. Kitty!), then as a donor, and finally became a weekly volunteer at their New York Avenue shelter. WHS is a part of my community and my life and DC is lucky to have such a great organization. - Bethe Almeras

washington humane society is just the best!!! i have been volunteering with them since the early 90's in
different capacities. it is not easy to run the city shelter and they do an amazing job. their fundraising has gotten to an amazing and fabulous level. i have just raised $1200 for them for the "walk for the animals". so easy. just email all your friends and family. go for it!!!

I have supported WHS through donations (money and also supplies) for several years, but finally volunteered to be a foster parent this summer. The WHS staff were excellent and walked this first-time foster through the process and made sure my kittens were taken care of. WHS does so much with so little and I plan to continue my support of this very worthwhile organization.

I've been involved with WHS now for several years as a volunteer and supporter. They provide critical services to all animals in the DC area and are a truly dedicated group of individuals who love and care for needy, hurt, and homeless animals. The people who run and work at WHS are incredibly passionate about what they do and it shows. I've been in DC for many years and have seen an incredible improvement in the Washington Humane Society over the past several years in terms of impact. I would definitely recommend becoming involved with WHS as either a volunteer, foster, or donor.

I have been a WHS volunteer for 5 years. The staffers and fellow volunteers are wonderful people who truly believe in advocating for animals. I look foward to continue volunteering to help fullfill the WHS mission and be a voice for animals.

I began by supporting WHS by adopting my two doggies from WHS 13 and 9 years ago. Now I am a volunteer. Each time I interact with someone at WHS I am amazed by their dedication to the saving the lives of animals. I wish I could figure out a way to thank them for all that they do. Amazing people.

There are not enough adjectives to describe the amazing experience I have had with the Washington Humane Society. I was asked to foster a dog that had many issues related to abuse. Having lost my beloved soul mate, Tucker a year earlier I felt it was a way of healing my broken heart. My experience with WHC has been humbling to say the least. My foster and I were given such guidance, wonderful resources and amazing doctors to help her heal. I often felt as though I was their only case though in reality I knew they were dealing with so many similar sad stories. Never were we just a number or just another dog that was found on the street. If only all organizations took their mission statement and truly walked the walk as the Washington Humane Society does.

My 'foster' and I now share the same last name...I'm a foster fail and that is in great part to the guidance and assistance I got from WHC. I'm a fan for life and will spend my spare time supporting their cause both financially and any volunteer opportunities I can participate in; that is how passionate I feel about this organization.

I adopted a wonderful dog from WHS, and I had him for 14 years. I'm so grateful the staff let me adopt him -- he changed my life. I'm a better person because I had this dog. People shouldn't forget the base of the word "humane" -- "human." WHS helps humans as much as animals.

I have been a volunteer for the past six years. This year has been a banner year for volunteers. The program has been restructured to offer a better volunteer experience. By creating set schedules, volunteers work together more. We are able to get many more dogs out in the yards. This activity of exercise and attention enriches their stay.

The Washington Humane Society is an outstanding group. I have been involved with the organization mainly through donations but have had behind-the-scenes experience with the staff and employees. The care and attention that is given to the animals is top-notch. And not only does the Washington Humane Society become involved in domestic animal rescues but with zoo animals and wildlife as well. Our city is well served by WIHS and our animals deserve the love and help provided.

I had the good fortune of finding the most wonderful young cat to adopt at the Washington Humane
Society on New York Avenue a few months ago and I want to sing their praises for making it a very
pleasant experience. All the animals I saw were well groomed, healthy and happy looking and the staff were anxious to give one time to visit with the animals, explain why there were there and what shots they had etc. It's a big decision to adopt and I can only say that finding my "Mollie" was one of the wisest decisions I ever made. Making this choice is a lot easier if you have some guidance from the staff and lots of encouragement too. They do a wonderful job with both clients and pets and I am one of their biggest admirers. I absolutely adore my cat and after having had cats all my life (I'm 82), I never thought I could be attached so deeply by a new cat after all of mine had gone to a better world. I was wrong ! Help support this wonderful organization. The animals need us as do we need
them.

Darcy sees to it in a very talented and personal way that each volunteer is appreciated and motivates us to do better for God's creatures - each and all.

First of all I am so pleased to be able to provide feedback about the great work being done at the WHS. I am a donor and have supported WHS for many years. Recently I lost one of two pets and was considering a new companion for both me and my remaining pet. Because of work complications and pet personality reasons (read difficult), I was extremely hesitant to jump into a new pet at all. I had the good fortune to be speaking with an individual at WHS who suggested I connect with one of their adoption specialists. I did and we discussed my situation, both with regard to my remaining pet (the difficult one) and my home and work life. It was a very informative experience and my eyes were opened to many possibilities. The specialist guided me through various options for adoption from WHS and I am pleased to report that I took the plunge and adopted not one, but a bonded pair of pets. My new family could not be happier which would not have happened absent the care and consideration I received from WHS. Thanks WHS, you are the best!

The Washington Humane Society does a fabulous service to the animals and humans of Washington. I'm too soft hearted to volunteer at the shelters (I cry at tv commercials and can't take in another animal) so I go to the administrative office and do what I can to help there. The staff all bring in their rescues so I get my puppy fix every week. Without WHS there would be many suffering animals all over the city with no voice, no protection. Kudos to this wonderful organization!

Washington Humane Society plays a large role in my life. I adopted my dog from their shelter last year and have become a volunteer and donor ever since. Their staff is professional, responsible, and, above all, caring for all of the animals that fall under their wing. As the only open-access shelter in the District of Columbia, they take in over 30,000 animals a year - an astounding feat. Knowing how they run their operation, I feel confident that my donation is going towards responsible spending and my volunteer hours are appreciated and well utilized.

WHS is a truly wonderful organization. My wife volunteers in a variety of ways (e.g., Saturday morning runs with the dogs, Bark Ball Gala, adoption events) and we have made significant donations to WHS. Some of these have been into the general purpose fund, and some designated for particular purposes. They make it incredibly easy to help, and are a very transparent organization. Before making a donation, we visited/toured the facilities, met many of the staff, and received a great deal of information regarding their needs and how they put donations to work. Walking around the New York Avenue shelter, it was amazing how friendly, open and helpful everyone was, and the care and kindness they show to the animals was overwhelming. It appeared to us that every staff member knew each of the dozens of animals personally. And this knowledge is critical to their ability to place animals appropriately with individuals and families. It is very hard to visit the shelter and not be caught up in their mission. I have also dealt with WHS professionally. I'm a partner in a law firm and we provide pro bono legal services to WHS to assist in its law enforcement role regarding DC's Cruelty to Animals and Dog Fighting criminal laws. I've worked closely with WHS Humane Law Enforcement personnel. They are incredibly dedicated and talented individuals, with a very difficult job. I simply can't say enough good things about this organization. Their broad mission (animal control, adoption, humane law enforcement) is so important and they manage it so capably, efficiently and cheerfully!

Devoted, caring people making animals happier. What could be better?

Washington Humane Society is one of many animal welfare organizations I am involved with that do great work on behalf of our best friends. I have been volunteering for over 5 years. Washington Humane Society is truly one of the best organizations I have had the pleasure of working with.

I've had the pleasure of working with the staff of WHS on many occasions from my role with The Humane Society of the United States. WHS has been a partner to us, assisting with site visits to film video segments, studio interviews. They are also an organization we cite regularly as a success story in increasing adoptions, reducing euthanasia, and helping people get information and the right messages about quality pet ownership.

The Washington Humane Society is pretty much the only charitable organization I annually contribute to. I know they put my contributions to work in all the right way and do such a service for our four legged friends. I wish I could do more.

WHS does an amazing job rescuing animals in need and placing them whenever possible in loving, permanent homes. The staff are incredibly helpful and excel at making sure the right animal meets the right family. They helped us acquire more than one companion animal and we are so grateful. There are so many animals in need and I am so pleased they are here in DC to help.

Everyone I know who has worked with this organization (as a client, donor or volunteer) has just raved about the staff responsiveness, dedication to mission, and overall passion to their work. I consider this a very trusted organization!

Whether you're a religious person or not, I think everyone can agree with this verse in Proverbs 12:10 that says, “The righteous man cares for the needs of his animals.” There is never a justification for cruelty or neglect. WHS is doing outstanding work in very difficult situations. This summer I had the opportunity to volunteer at the New York Ave. Shelter and I truly was able to see first hand the tremendous work that's being done by WHS. I was simply overwhelmed by the number of animals coming into the shelter for so many reasons but the staff were professional and in very difficult circumstances always had the best interest of the animals at the forefront of their work. I personally could not do it on a daily basis because of sad situations involving the animals. However, I built new beds for the shelter and repaired beds so animals were able to be off the floor when resting. WHS is doing amazing work but I am commited to telling friends and family to please volunteer and commit time and financial resources to enable more good work to be done for DC's animals. Simply attending a fundraising dinner is not enough, its a start but everyone needs to step up to the plate and donate their time. Before volunteering I really didn't appreciate the work of WHS on a daily basis, 24/7. Well done WHS!

One of the most effective and focused organizations that keeps accomplishing great things for the lost, injured and abandoned animals in our Nation's Capital. I have enthusiastically served on the annual Bark Ball host committee for the past several years because of the great work and success of the WHS. The overwhelming community support that is demonstrated year after year toward WHS is a firm testament to this great non-profit organization, the lives it touches, and the lives it saves.

We adopted an animal from these folks about five years ago, and then again last month. Wow! What a difference! This time, they treated us like important people, and like customers. And they knew the animals in their shelter individually, and helped us pick out one that was a good match for us by asking some very good questions about our lifestyle. And the facility at New York Avenue has gone from being a dirty pit to being clean. It even seems to be in better shape than six years ago.

I started volunteering at WHS about a year ago and have to say that I've actually found a home and family to work with in supporting the efforts of saving animals. The team is wonderful to work with, making sure you have the knowledge and motivation to succeed. The fundraising efforts offer a broad stroke of activities that touch all interest. They work to impact the community with education, spay and neuter programs and adoption events. The best is the care they give the animals. They strive to make sure all have proper medical, stimulation and food. I enjoy the time I spend with the staff - be it at an event or at the shelter - the team rocks!

All I can say is that the WHS is one of the few organizations that when they ask for your support you feel so appreciated afterwards. I am a local dog bakery,Barkley Square Pets, I love to help them with their events by offering our Bark Bars and Hydrant Bars free. I do this because I want to give back to the angels that are in the shelter without a voice. When I agree to do an event with them, you would think I am the Queen of the country. They thank me, they recognize me, they tell others about me..its unbelievable. They truly, truly respect and appreciate those that try to help them. The folks at the WHS are dedicated to their cause. They work tiredless at placing pets in their forever homes. Many times spending hundreds of hours just loving the pets and making sure that they feel a secure and loved while in the shelter. I know for a fact that many of the staff adopt from their own shelter as well as foster. They do not want any animal to feel neglected or unloved. Again I would do anything for the WHS because they are who they say they are and when you help them they make sure to recognize you and not take even the smallest donation for granted.

WHS has been a leader for animals in the Washington, DC area. The staff is amazing and are some of the most dedicated people I have ever met. The quality of care of the animals and the enforcement of law for the animals are head and shoulders above.

Incredible staff. Totally dedicated to making our community better. Their events are incredible, and they are key to making our animal friends safe.

This is by far the best nonprofit in town. The tireless work the staff does is beyond belief. I love them and what they do. I'm proud to be associated with them.

I have been impressed with the quality and breadth of events that are organized by the WHS to raise funds and awareness. They work hard to integrate the animals into their events that make them unique and fun. The staff is top notch and dedicated to helping these animals find homes and to find ways to prevent abuse. I will continue to support their efforts.

The Washington Humane Society (WHS) and its incredibly dedicated staff and volunteers work tirelessly every day to save and enrich the lives of animals in our community, our nation's capitol. No challenge is too great for the WHS. As a Board Member, my life has been enriched to see how dogs, cats and other animals have been protected and saved. The WHS helps to bring together animals needing a home with caring individuals and families looking to adopt. I am so proud to be a part of such a wonderful organization.

I had volunteered at a rescue organization that claims to be no kill for several years before switching to WHS, so I was concerned about the decisions that have to be made by an organization that accepts any lost, unwanted, or abused animal from its city. What I have found is an incredible commitment to do as much as possible for every animal, and an eager welcome to volunteers. Staff and volunteers work together, and when the animals we love find homes we share the joy. When difficult decisions have to be made the facts are available to volunteers, and we share the sadness with understanding.

I used to give to Washington Humane Society but when I see a $200,000 salary going to the CEO I have stopped. Now I sort through charities and give to them depending on how much they spend on salaries and administrative expenses. Naturally those with a low reigned in expense and CEO salaries get my money. Sad, because maybe the Washington Humane Society does good work but my dollar is put to a better use in lower expense charities. I use Charity Navigator,org to checkout organizations.

I am proud to be a loyal supporter of the Washington Humane Society. The dedicated staff works tirelessly to help the abused, neglected, and homeless animals that come into their care. I have seen staff at all levels of the organization go above and beyond the call of duty to make a difference, give comfort, and provide care to the most vulnerable. Their job is exceptionally difficult and salute them for their compassion and dedication.

It's too bad that the abused and homeless dogs and cats have a CEO getting paid almost $200,000.00 plus benefits etc. More than the Mayor. More than a Senator. Imagine how many animals that kind of money would feed, or rescue. For all that money, she has the responsiveness of a rock! I will no longer donate to WHS until this type of attitude and wastefulness is ended. I am recommending to everyone in my firm to do the same, and I urge everyone else to follow. There are so many other, more worthy animal charities, why feed this overpaid person. The animals deserve better!