I often come across an animal shelter that goes above and beyond, where compassion isn’t just a mission, it’s a daily practice. This month, I’m shining a spotlight on another exceptional animal shelter whose innovative programs are changing lives, both for the animals in their care and the people who love them. From creative enrichment activities to thoughtful adoption support, this shelter is proving that with heart, hope, and a little imagination, every animal can find their way home.
Founded in 1952 as Sarasota’s first nonprofit dedicated to animal welfare, the Humane Society of Sarasota County (HSSC) has grown into the region’s leading no-kill shelter. They give every adoptable pet in their care the chance to find a loving home. Their mission remains unwavering: to save the lives of cats and dogs while enriching the lives of the people who love them. As a private, nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization, HSSC operates entirely on the generosity of individuals, businesses, and community partners.
HSSC Beginnings
After losing his dog due to a lack of notification, Donald Evans was determined to make a change. On January 15, 1952, his vision became reality when 70 concerned citizens gathered at the Sunshine Kitchen to form what is now the Humane Society of Sarasota County. HSSC, Inc.
From just 54 animals in its early days to over 200 today, HSSC has come a long way. A major renovation in 2021 transformed the shelter into a 38,000-square-foot, no-kill facility, saving nearly 3,000 lives each year.
Their Mission:
HSSC operates the area’s leading no-kill shelter, delivering compassionate care to cats and dogs while growing lifesaving programs, promoting community partnerships, and educating the public, all to create a No-Kill Florida. They fulfill their mission by giving every shelter pet the compassionate care they deserve, working tirelessly to find them loving, permanent homes, and advocating for responsible pet ownership throughout the community.
Programs
One of the things I admire most about HSSC is its commitment to animals of all ages, especially senior pets. Through thoughtful programs that focus on older cats and dogs, they give these often-overlooked companions the second chance they deserve. Whether it’s medical support, special adoption incentives, or matching seniors with senior citizens, HSSC makes sure age is never a barrier to love.
Senior for Seniors Adoption Program
HSSC’s Seniors for Seniors Program pairs the wisdom of age with the warmth of companionship, matching senior cats and dogs (ages 7 and older) with caring adults age 65 and up. This special program not only offers older pets a loving forever home but also brings joy, comfort, and connection to their adopters. With guidance from HSSC’s client experience team, a perfect match is found for the older adult’s home and lifestyle. Thanks to a generous grant from the Wenk Family Charitable Foundation, the adoption fee is completely waived.
There is something truly special about adopting a senior pet. With the older pet’s gentle demeanor, grateful heart, and years of life experience, older cats and dogs often settle in quickly and form deep, lasting bonds. Choosing a senior companion means giving them the love they deserve and gaining a loyal friend who is ready to give their whole heart from day one.
Senior pets are often calm, well-mannered, and an excellent match for a quieter lifestyle. They offer loving companionship, encourage social interaction, and can even improve health by reducing stress, lowering blood pressure, and easing feelings of loneliness.
Visitors can stop by HSSC anytime, no appointment needed, to meet with a client experience counselor who will help match them with a pet that’s the perfect fit for their lifestyle..
TLC Program
HSSC created this program after seeing too many animals with long-term medical conditions passed over for adoption. Many people felt drawn to these pets, but the cost of ongoing care often stood in the way. This program helps remove that barrier, giving these special animals the best possible chance at finding their forever home.
Thanks to generous donors, pets in the TLC program can receive the medical care they need for life and give them a better chance of finding a loving home. With an average lifetime care cost of $500 per pet, this program depends on the continued support of the community to keep changing lives.
For senior pets or those with ongoing medical needs, consistent veterinary care and routine medication are essential. This situation can feel overwhelming for some adopters. Through this program, HSSC hopes to inspire people to open their hearts and homes to these special pets, who still have so much love to give.
Additional Services
K-9 Obedience Training Courses
HSSC’s K-9 Obedience Training Courses use positive reinforcement to help dogs, and their owners build trust, learn manners, and strengthen their bond. From socialization to Canine Good Citizen certification, classes are led by experienced trainers and offered at prices well below other local options.
Pet Therapy Training Courses
To join HSSC’s Pet Therapy Program, participants and their dogs must complete the four-week Pet Therapy Training Course. The course teaches key skills like leash walking, ignoring distractions, and staying focused, and concludes with an evaluation. Those who pass are welcomed into the program, while others receive guidance for additional training.
For more information about HSSC, check out their website at hssc.org. While you’re at it, check out the pets up for adoption.