Animal Welfare Society, Inc. (AWS) was founded in 1965 as an independent, non-profit, non-destroy animal rescue organization and is a registered 501(c)3 organization. Our mission is to offer refuge to homeless and abandoned dogs and cats and place them in loving, responsible homes.

We rely on the generosity of our supporters - we do not receive any local, state, or federal funding.

Each year hundreds of animals are rescued by AWS from local communities throughout Connecticut. Some are turned over to us because their owners have become ill, died, or are in a family crisis. Others are found as strays or are abandoned. We partner with our local and state animal control officers on abuse and neglect cases and work with reputable rescue organizations. From the moment they enter our shelter, these pets receive loving care. We provide excellent veterinary services including a complete panel of vaccinations, preventative worming, feline leukemia testing, flea and tick prevention, canine heartworm testing, and treatment. All our cats and dogs are spayed/neutered and microchipped prior to adoption.

Please consider purchasing an item and help us continue our mission!

AWS 2026 Valentine's Day Auction