The Humane Society of South Mississippi (HSSM) is the largest animal welfare organization in the state, caring for over 7,000 homeless pets in 2019. Since its establishment in 1952, HSSM has been dedicated to ending pet overpopulation on the Mississippi Gulf Coast. HSSM is an open-admissions shelter, welcoming all pets regardless of health, age, or behavior.

To combat needless euthanasia, HSSM launched the progressive initiative called Countdown to Zero in 2012. Their goal is to eliminate the euthanasia of all healthy and treatable pets, making South Mississippi a truly humane community where every pet can find a loving home. HSSM provides a range of life-saving programs, including aggressive spay/neuter efforts, proactive pet identification campaigns, and exhaustive return-to-owner efforts.

They have also implemented innovative adoption programs and Love Train transports, through which hundreds of adoptable pets are sent to partner shelters across the country. As a 100% independent and non-profit organization, HSSM relies on the support of the community to shelter and care for nearly 8,000 homeless pets annually, as well as provide additional services for 10,000 community-owned pets. Despite their budget, HSSM has proven to be highly effective and efficient in their efforts.

Located in Gulfport, Mississippi, HSSM operates a 41,000 square foot facility designed with bright colors and oversized sculptures, creating a welcoming environment for both people and pets. They can be contacted at (228) 863-3354 or info@hssm. org, and their hours of operation are Tuesday-Friday from 10AM-5PM and Saturday 10AM-4PM