Humane Society Adopts Socially Conscious Sheltering Approach

Source: Santa Barbara Humane Society

The Santa Barbara Humane Society has formally adopted Socially Conscious Sheltering to define its values and approach to animal welfare.

The Socially Conscious Sheltering model provides a framework among animal welfare organizations who share a commitment to providing the best outcome for animals by treating them with respect and alleviating suffering.

“Santa Barbara Humane Society is a progressive organization that is committed to saving as many lives as possible while also considering the safety of our community and ensuring every animal is regarded as an individual,” explains Kerri Burns, executive director of the nonprofit organization, “The Socially Conscious Sheltering language and basic tenants accurately sum up our approach to ethical animal sheltering and we are proud to align ourselves with this humane and logical perspective.”

Responsibilities of Socially Conscious Shelters include:

• Ensuring every unwanted and homeless pet has a safe place to go for shelter and care.

• Placing every healthy and safe animal.

• Assessing the medical and behavioral needs of homeless animals and ensuring those needs are thoughtfully addressed.

• Aligning policy with the needs of the community.

• Alleviating suffering and making appropriate euthanasia decisions.

• Considering the health and wellness of animals for each community when transferring animals between communities.

• Enhancing the human-animal bond through thoughtful placement and post-adoption support.

• Fostering a culture of transparency, ethical decision-making, mutual respect, continual learning, and collaboration.

The Santa Barbara Humane Society placed over 1,000 animals into new homes last year. As a local nonprofit organization, the Humane Society provides a safe haven for homeless cats and dogs and serves the community through a low cost spay/neuter and vaccine clinic, Humane Education classes and outreach, dog training classes, and affordable pet boarding. The Santa Barbara Humane Society relies on community support and is not funded or governed by any national animal welfare organization. For more information, visit www.SBHumaneSociety.org or call 805-964-4777.