About Us

Founded in 1983, Action For Animals Humane Society (AFA) is a 501c3 non-profit, non-government funded, no-kill shelter that keeps animals free from the threat of unwarranted euthanasia. We rescue and provide care for abused, neglected and stray dogs and cats until loving furever homes are found.

In addition to the rescue and adoption of 700-800 animals each year, AFA provides low cost spay/neuter services to the public, helping eliminate the cruelty of animal overpopulation.

Located on Route 217, just outside of Latrobe, our beautiful facilities include Tigre Pavilion (cageless open-air cattery), Blessed’s Dog Park and walking paths, private visitation rooms, and outdoor covered play areas.

Action For Animals Humane Society No-Kill Mission

Our mission statement: “Action For Animals Humane Society was founded in 1983 to shelter and provide care for abused, abandoned and stray dogs and cats of Westmoreland County. We adopt animals into responsible homes and vigorously promote the spaying and neutering of all pets to eliminate the cruelty of animal overpopulation. We are a non-profit, non-government funded, no-kill shelter that keeps animals free from the threat of unwarranted euthanasia.”

A no-kill shelter is defined as a save rate of 90% or higher. As a no-kill shelter, there are limited cases when we are forced to make the difficult decision to humanely euthanize animals. These animals include those suffering with end stage medical illness or with extreme aggression who would pose a dangerous threat to human or animal lives. We come to this decision only after exhausting all options, such as advice from veterinarians, licensed behaviorists, trainers, or attempts to place with a foster group who would have the ability to rehabilitate the animal. Like all shelters, it is our responsibility to protect the public.

AFA has never euthanized a single animal for space, or any other reason than the suffering from a terminal illness or severe, untreatable aggression. All adoptable animals are kept in our shelter for as long as necessary to find a second chance family for re-homing. Please know every animal’s life is precious to us and each and every one is loved and cared for until a permanent family is found.