Mission and Principles

The Humane Society of Stanislaus County was formed to address the needs of neglected, abandoned and abused companion animals within Stanislaus County. Our Mission is to educate the public about humane practices, spaying and neutering of pets, and provide a safe, healthy shelter environment, adoption services and medical care whenever possible to the companion animals in our community.

Our Principles are as follows:

• We believe that every life has merit and euthanasia is not the answer;
• We believe that to reach our goals of a no-kill shelter community we must educate the community about spaying and neutering pets;
• We oppose Breed Specific Legislation (BSL) because it punishes animals for human actions:
• We oppose all forms of animal cruelty, including those disguised as “sport”;
• We believe that education and compassionate advocacy are the most effective means of communication;
• We oppose the breeding of companion animals for monetary gain
  (livestock excluded);
• We oppose the sale of puppies and kittens by pet shops;
• We believe that as a community we can achieve anything;
• We understand that agriculture is an intricate part of the fabric of Stanislaus County, and we respect the rights of those who make their living in that manner.

As a Humane Society, we reserve the right to refuse or revoke membership to anyone who: a) makes their living by breeding companion animals for monetary gain (livestock excluded), b) has participated in any form of animal cruelty, c) uses their membership or position for political gain, or d) fails to uphold the Principles of our organization and community.

Bylaws

Original Bylaws adopted: 10/07/07