February 1, 2010
What Sets HSI Apart?
Humane Society International and our partner organizations together constitute one of the world's largest animal protection organizations—backed by 11 million people.
HSI is one of the most effective organizations for animals. With the support of our advocates and donors, we have advocated for strong legislation to protect wildlife, pets, farm animals and animals in laboratories. For example, in 2009 we helped achieve a European Union ban on trade in seal products, a major step toward ending the annual commercial seal slaughter in Canada.
We work with local animal organizations in countries all over the world to provide direct, hands-on care to animals in need and spread the culture of compassion. For example, HSI works with wildlife rescue centers in Central America to improve their facilities and protocols in order to create better conditions for confiscated wildlife and increase possibilities of wildlife being returned to the wild when appropriate.
We are the only international animal NGO operating sustained, intercontinental campaigns to help farm animals, wild animals, animals in laboratories and companion animals.
HSI is actively working to end animal testing in 15 years. We have the expertise and resources to make it happen.
HSI strikes at the root of problems affecting animals by providing the tools and resources to prevent animal suffering both now and in the future. For example, we are pioneering a high-volume vaccination and sterilization program for street dogs, and were the first organization asked by a national government to establish this approach throughout their country to improve the health and welfare of both people and the dogs. We offer vet and animal handling training, work with governments on more humane animal control policies, and support spay/neuter clinics in countries the world over.
Unlike conservation organizations, we address animal welfare. For example, while some conservation groups argue that elephant ivory trade acceptable because it is sustainable in southern Africa, we oppose ivory trade because it is cruel and we oppose buying parts of animals.
Our depth of technical and scientific expertise, as well as our breadth of work, is unique among animal protection organizations. Our staff and consultants include world authorities and national experts in a wide range of key disciplines and topics.