Who We Are
Founded in 1889 by J. William Sayre, the Lexington Humane Society (LHS) is a 501(c)3 organization solely dependent on private donations, grants and community support. We receive no operating support from the government or national animal welfare groups, including Humane World for Animals (formerly HSUS) or the ASPCA.
Among other things, LHS is the largest pet adoption agency in Central Kentucky, we educate the community on responsible pet care and the compassionate treatment of all animals, and we spay/neuter the pets of qualifying families at a low cost.
Simply stated, we Give Love, Teach Love, and Adopt Love.
What Makes Us, Us...
To advocate the compassionate treatment of animals; educate the community on responsible, lifelong pet ownership; and promote adoption as the best option when searching for a new pet.
We envision a time when every companion animal is treated with respect, care, and compassion as a valued, lifelong member of the family. A time when there are no more homeless animals resulting from irresponsible or noncommittal pet ownership.
- Teamwork, built on knowledge, respect, and appreciation, to achieve our mission
- Kindness and common sense to guide and accomplish shared goals
- High level of care and compassion provided to all of our animals
- Respectful, unbiased customer service provided internally and externally
- Embracement of diversity, equity, and inclusion in all areas of operation
- Ethical, accountable, and transparent practices and activities
- Financial accountability worthy of our donors’ trust
While remaining true to these core values, LHS commits to evolve and grow and will work hard every day to make it a great day for the animals and each other.
Our Partnership
LHS* chooses to contract with Lexington-Fayette Urban County Government to provide the city’s mandated animal control services through Lexington-Fayette Animal Care & Control, LLC (LFACC). As a result of this relationship, Fayette County’s animal control save rate is estimated to be twice the national average for animal control facilities. For more information on LFACC services, click here.
*No LHS donor funds are used to support LFACC operations.
Recognition
Charity Navigator
We are proud to receive a Charity Navigator 4-star rating, which is their organization’s highest rating for non-profit accountability, finance, leadership, and adaptability.
GuideStar
We are proud to receive a GuideStar Platinum Level rating, which is their organization’s highest rating for non-profit transparency.
PetSmart Charities
We are proud to be a PetSmart Charities Grantee.
PetSmart Charities
We are proud to be a PetSmart Charities Gold Adoption Partner. As of 2025 only 53 groups in the US have achieved Gold Medal Status.
