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Clay Humane then and now. Doctors and old photos.
Present membership has expired! Please renew today!

Then & Now

Our story begins in a small block building that sits in the shadow of a wastewater treatment center on a quiet Orange Park road. The year is 1978. Jimmy Carter is President, the first Garfield comic strip is published, smallpox is eradicated, and the first test tube baby is born. In that year, 32,059 people call Clay County, with its sprawling forest lands and endless waterways, home. It was here that a tiny group of volunteers would launch what would become one of North Florida’s most impactful and enduring animal welfare initiatives.  

We at the Clay Humane look back over the years with various emotions – gratitude, humility, and pride. As we celebrate 45 years of caring for our community’s animals, we are truly astonished by what we have accomplished. Since our inception, we have sterilized more than 110,000 animals and provided low-cost or free veterinary care to tens of thousands more, including after-hours urgent care patients. We have served as a voice for the animals through campaigns in our communities and schools to foster humane attitudes toward all living creatures. Through the years, hundreds of orphaned or injured wildlife species have also been rehabilitated and successfully returned to their native habitats with the hope of preserving nature for future generations. And with only smiles as payment, groups of dedicated volunteers have visited seniors in nursing homes and lent crucial assistance to disabled and disadvantaged persons with pets. In everything we do, we are always dedicated to our mission to promote compassion. With every pet, with every conversation, and with every opportunity, we nurture the limitless possibilities of the human and animal connection.

Clay Humane receives no county or state funding. The income from our ever-hectic clinic and the generous contributions of our dedicated supporters like you have empowered us to help those with nowhere else to turn when in need. Your support of our organization has had essential ripple effects. With your help, the Society has and will continue to serve individuals from around the area—raising consciousness of the importance of responsible, compassionate pet ownership. As we look to the future, we will remain steadfast in our battle against pet overpopulation. We will continue until the day comes when senseless animal suffering no longer exists.

Become a member today!

Present membership expired on July 31, 2023.  If you have not already renewed, use PayPal below to renew your membership!  As always, we wish you a safe and humane year.

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Shake Your Groove Thing

We invite YOU, our wonderful supporters to come join us in celebrating 45 years of service at our Studio 45 Disco Party on September 9th.  Follow the disco ball to the Clay Theatre from 6-10pm and enjoy heavy hors d’ oeuvres, an open bar and lots of dancing so don’t forget your go-go boots!

Shake Your Groove Thing at our 45th Anniversary disco party on September 9
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