Animal Shelter Appreciation Week
The Humane Society of the United States (HSUS) created National Animal Shelter Appreciation Week in 1996 on the first full week of November to recognize and support animal shelters, their staff, and volunteers, and to encourage community involvement. At Helen Woodward, we believe that people help animals and animals help people.
This week we’re taking a moment to highlight the dedication, compassion, and hard work that goes into caring for animals, as well as all the behind the scenes work that makes a real difference. From the team members who provide daily care to the volunteers and supporters who give their time and resources, each act within our animal shelter plays a vital role in helping pets find a loving home while inspiring compassion in our community.
Every small act can make a big change, it takes all of us: staff, volunteers, donors, and adopters to make our mission possible. During Animal Shelter Appreciation Week, we’re reminded that every person who lends a hand helps make a lasting impact on the lives of both animals and people.
Helen Woodward’s Year-Round Commitment
While this week highlights the work of shelters nationwide, our mission continues every day. Helen Woodward Animal Center supports both animals and the people who love them through:
- Adoptions: Connecting thousands of pets with loving families
- Animeals: Delivering food and supplies to keep pets in home regardless of logistical or financial challenges
- Pet Encounter Therapy: Bringing comfort and unconditional love through human-animal interactions
- Education: Teaching compassion, understanding, and responsibility towards all living things to people of all ages
- Pets without Walls: Assisting homeless and low-income individuals in keeping their pets healthy and cared for
How You Can Celebrate
National Animal Shelter Appreciation Week is not just about recognition, but it is about action. There are many ways you can support your local shelter and make a difference:
- Donate, Volunteer, Foster, or Adopt
- Get to know your local shelter
- Learn what type of support they need
- Spread Awareness
- Share importance of pet identification and ownership
Thank You for Supporting Animal Shelters
As we celebrate National Animal Shelter Appreciation Week, Helen Woodward extends our gratitude to everyone who continues to support animal shelters, locally and nationally. Your kindness, time, and generosity make it possible for shelters to provide care, safety, and second chances to animals in need. Together, we are creating a brighter future for pets and for the people who love them.
