The Humane Society of Southern Arizona was founded in 1944 by a group of concerned and compassionate animal lovers led by our first president Mrs. Guerin Wilson. The Humane Society of Tucson, as it was known until 1998, initially shared space with Pima Animal Control. It took only a few years, however, to realize that the mission and goals of a private, nonprofit animal welfare organization and those of a government shelter were not the same.
For much of our history, the HSSA operated as a shelter whose primary purpose was taking in homeless pets and finding them homes. Over time, however, the importance of preventing more of the homeless pets we saw from being born became apparent. In 1974, the HSSA began a
spay/neuter program that continues to this day – with more than 12,000 pets being served each year.
Our Mission
Acting with compassion and responsible stewardship through innovative programs that serve pets and the people who love them.
Our Vision
A community in which all pets are cared for and loved.