Founded in 1900, the New York State Humane Association (NYSHA) is dedicated to eradicating animal suffering and ending animal cruelty in New York State. NYSHA strengthens the enforcement of animal protection laws, supports those working to protect animals, and provides hands-on assistance in cruelty and neglect cases throughout New York State.
NYSHA envisions a future in which strong laws, effective enforcement, public awareness, and coordinated responses work together to prevent suffering and ensure that animals in need have a voice and a path to safety, thereby creating a New York where animals are protected, communities are strengthened, and compassion and accountability guide the way we treat all living beings.
The New York State Humane Association (NYSHA) was organized in 1900 and incorporated in 1925. It is a 501(c)(3) organization and is not funded by any government agency. NYSHA’s guiding philosophy is to reduce animal suffering, to prevent animal cruelty, and to encourage compassion to all creatures. To achieve these ends, NYSHA’s ongoing activities and programs include the following:
• Law Enforcement Workshops
For more than 30 years, NYSHA has conducted animal cruelty investigation workshops for police agencies and local SPCAs throughout New York State. Through these workshops and specialized resources, NYSHA helps law enforcement officers understand New York’s animal protection laws, conduct effective cruelty investigations, build stronger cases, and hold those who abuse or neglect animals accountable. NYSHA’s presenters are experts in animal cruelty investigation, the connection between animal cruelty and human abuse, the role of veterinarians, and the prosecution of cruelty cases. By providing the knowledge, tools, and practical guidance needed for effective enforcement, NYSHA helps protect animals from further suffering.
• Cruelty Investigation Manual – NYSHA has produced a comprehensive manual entitled, “How to Investigate Animal Cruelty in New York State.” It is available on our website in PDF and HTML format. This manual is used by police and humane agencies throughout New York State and beyond as a reference tool to more effectively investigate animal cruelty.
• Animal Cruelty Response (ACR)
The ACR works to alleviate animal suffering resulting from abuse and neglect by maintaining a cruelty reporting system and field representatives (FRs) across New York State to assist law enforcement, shelters, veterinarians, advocacy groups and the public, ensuring that animal victims are rescued and perpetrators are held accountable.
• Legislative and Advocacy Efforts
To Legislate and educate on issues pertaining to the welfare of all animals in New York State, and act as an authority concerning New York’s animals in assisting individuals and entities working towards the same goals.
• Referral Service to Citizens and Agencies Throughout NYS
NYSHA serves as a trusted resource for individuals, animal shelters, and law enforcement agencies throughout New York State. We provide guidance, educational resources, and practical assistance on a wide range of animal protection issues—from determining where and how to report suspected cruelty.
• Materials for Educators and the Humane Community
NYSHA provides lists of excellent humane education websites, resources and helpful links for teachers, families and communities. NYSHA’s newsletter, Humane Review, is published regularly and features articles on topics of interest to those involved with animal welfare, as well as the general public. In addition, it includes information on bills in the NYS legislature and upcoming events.
Sources of Funding
As a not-for-profit organization, NYSHA depends on donations from individuals, bequests, and foundation grants.
Board of Directors:
President: Laura Ann Camissa
Board Chair: Patricia Valusek
Board CoChair: Harold Hovel, PhD.
Vice President: Diane Fingar
Board Secretary: Rebecca Diamond
Treasurer: Marc Kissel
ACR Chair: John Scheib
Board Member: Lia Albo
Board Member: Jean Daniels
Board Member: Patrick Battuello
Board Member: Kathy Stevens