Incorporated in 2002, Stand Up For Animals founders, attorney Larry Hirsch, and his wife Kay, Animal Control Officer, Tom Gulluscio and Rep. Peter Lewiss set out with a vision to build a new animal shelter to replace the aging, over-crowded and under equipped shelter owned by the Town of Westerly. This innovative idea–to work in cooperation with the Town of Westerly, to build the most up-to-date, efficient, animal friendly, and people friendly shelter began to take shape.

After completion of the shelter, SUFA expanded their mission to include a TNR (Trap, Neuter, Release) Program with feral cat colonies in our region and community outreach to provide support for emergency veterinary bills.

In 2023 we identified a need for accessible and affordable animal wellness clinics and low-cost neuter/spay surgeries. Working with the Town, SUFA launched a full-time animal wellness clinic that is housed in the Westerly Animal Shelter and is covered by a 99-year lease for the space. The cost of the clinic is subsidized through grants, donations and fundraisers to be able to offer affordable wellness care to companion animals (dogs & cats) in our region.

Mallory Portraits - Sitting, 20" Portrait & 1 night stay at Marriot AC in Portsmouth, NH