Animal Welfare Society

Founded in 1967, Animal Welfare Society (AWS) — a private 501(c)(3) non-profit humane society located in Kennebunk, Maine — provides shelter, veterinary care, education and resources to more than 20,000 pets and community members annually. AWS exists to serve as the safety net for lost and homeless pets and to provide access to affordable services and resources necessary for long term well-being, so pets and their families stay together and thrive.

Founded in 1967, Animal Welfare Society (AWS) is a private 501(c)(3) non-profit organization located on a beautiful 40-acre property in Kennebunk, Maine. For more than 50 years, the organization has been a local and regional leader in progressive animal welfare and a champion of the human-animal bond. Each year, 20,000 pets and community members benefit from AWS’ programs and services.

AWS’ state-of-the-art, Fear-Free Adoption Center offers safe and secure accommodations for a variety of companion animals including dogs, cats, rabbits, birds, and small mammals. It also functions as the municipal impound facility for local animal control. Furthermore, the organization works with shelters and rescue groups in other parts of the state and country to transport pets to AWS for adoption. While bringing together families through adoption and reuniting lost pets with their loved ones, AWS’ community-focused approach promotes and protects the pets and people of Southern Maine.

Beyond adoptions, AWS offers a comprehensive suite of Stay@Home resources designed to keep pets and their people together, especially during times of hardship. These resources include temporary emergency sheltering, pet food and supplies and behavioral training assistance. Furthermore, AWS’ on-site Community Veterinary Clinic provides affordable and accessible care to both resident (shelter) animals and pets belonging to local community members. The Clinic’s Companion Program offers discounts on many veterinary services to community members who qualify financially. AWS also supports spay/neuter efforts through Maine by organizing and staffing mobile surgery and wellness clinics statewide, particularly in areas lacking sufficient veterinary resources. The organization’s work is driven by a compassionate and professional staff, supported by 300+ dedicated foster families and volunteers.