We are so excited to introduce you to the moms behind the Humane Society of South Mississippi! This team of moms works tirelessly to end pet overpopulation and homelessness on our beloved Gulf Coast. The Humane Society of South Mississippi (HSSM) is the largest animal welfare organization in the state of Mississippi. Not only are these women working hard to save the “fur babies” of the Coast, they are also working hard raising their own families and their kiddos are a huge part of the HSSM life. Learn more about these amazing moms here!

HSSM is a huge operation caring for nearly 400 animals a day, our administration is small, therefore we enlist our family to become DeFacto volunteers any time the shelter has an unplanned need. Our longest serving senior management team includes CEO Lori West, and Directors Bianca Janik, Katie Allen, and Arin King. We- along with 50 incredibly dedicated coworkers- are "moms" (and dads) to over 5,000 homeless pets per year and helping other pet parents by servicing 16,000 pets annually. Our team cares so much about our beautiful Gulf Coast and it’s our dream to help connect every homeless pet with the perfect family.

We are a very hands on group of leaders and our day to day responsibilities span from clinical operations, pet surrender, animal placement and pathways, development and fundraising, quality operations and administration, animal wellness, and seven municipal contracts servicing lost and homeless pets in six cities and all of Harrison County.

There are so many incredible opportunities to share our love for domestic pets as well as educate and advocate on their behalf. HSSM is blessed to be in a community that is so invested in our pets, and we are proud to bring new additional events to the community that brings families and pets together such as the Original Krewe of Barkloxi Annual PAWrade, Caturday Brunch, Rock n Roll Over, and lots of volunteer opportunities. You can also find information on their upcoming Summer Camp!

When asked to share a piece of advice with all the mamas out there, this is what Lori had to say:

“Pets are family and they enrich our family life. They offer so many teaching moments as well as a true example of unconditional love. All things that enrich the lives of our children that will secure a more humane tomorrow. “

Your kiddo’s new best friend might be waiting at HSSM today! View their list of adoptable pets here!

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