The purpose of the Clay County Humane Society is "the prevention of cruelty to animals, the relief of suffering among animals, and the extension of humane education."

The Clay County Humane Society is a private non-profit animal welfare organization, which was established in 1978. Initially our service to the community was the operation of a small shelter for abandoned dogs and cats, which provided veterinary care, sterilization, and adoption into suitable homes. During that time we operated the shelter, the proliferation of unwanted dogs and cats ultimately resulted in a euthanasia rate at the County’s Animal Control facility of approximately 10,000 animals per year. It became obvious that while our shelter work was worth while, a more aggressive approach to the pet overpopulation problem was needed.

The Humane Society responded by opening the area's first non-profit animal clinic where Spay/Neuter surgery and other basic veterinary care was offered at substantially reduced rates. We also began to expand our education programs and encourage people to take advantage of the low rates to have their pets neutered.