Adoption information
Adoptable dogs
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How we began
Facts about HTAS
FAQs
Educational program
Building our sanctuary
Sponsorship/donations
Sponsor a buddy
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Give a donation
Buy a t-shirt
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Sponsors
Foster program
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Contact us
How Happy Tails Animal Sanctuary Began
Happy Tails Animal Sanctuary (HTAS) was born out a of commitment and love for all animals. After many years of working with animals shelters, Susan Hatfield and Jim Johnson, saw a need for an alternative approach to euthanasia. Our first year and a half was spent finding attorneys and CPAs who would work with us pro-bono helping us organize all our paperwork and filing forms with the IRS. If we could not have an absolutely outstanding, professional organization we were not going to undertake this monumental task. Our commitment was deep for these animals and although we both had full-time jobs we continued to press ahead with our sanctuary work. During that first year we also continued to rescue, rehabilitate and rehome animals. Finding foster homes was a challenge and we continue to constantly recruit new families. Without their loving support our program would not work.
HTAS was incorporated in the State of Missouri in August 1998 and we operate under the "no-kill" philosophy, utilizing foster homes until permanent placement can be achieved. We have a wonderful, dedicated group of volunteers who give unselfishly of their time so that together we can work on fundraising, local and national awareness, educational programs and placing animals in permanent, responsible and loving homes. We continue to rescue a large number of animals, most who were slated for euthanasia. Whether it be puppy mill dogs, abused animals or simply lost and abandoned strays, we welcome all we can take into our program and foster homes.
Our commitment is to making a difference in the lives of animals in our care by changing the attitudes and perceptions of the humans who interact with them. We give all our animals a new lease on life and when they enter our program they are treated with respect, care, tenderness and love. Its takes a lot of volunteer people to keep our organization running and we hope you will consider supporting our efforts and becoming part of our wonderful Happy Tails family.
You Can Make A Difference
Here are some of the ways you can help the animals
- Ask your employer to become a corporate sponsor.
- Leave a living legacy in your will to Happy Tails Animal Sanctuary.
- Ask 10 of your friends to give a $5 donation to the sanctuary.
- Organize a bake sale or a garage sale in your neighborhood.
- Volunteer to be a foster family or help with fundraising or upcoming events.
- Buy one of our great t-shirts to show your support for our sanctuary.
- Adopt one of our wonderful animals for your life long friend.