
CARES Clarksdale is a nonprofit, no-kill animal shelter dedicated to providing a safe haven for animals in need, raising awareness about the joys of adoption, and helping pet lovers keep the companions they cherish. We believe that when we love, we strive to become better, and we are committed to making a difference one happy tail at a time.
Founded in 2014, CARES was born out of a necessity to improve animal welfare in the Mississippi Delta. Since taking responsibility for the local animal shelter in 2015 and moving into our purpose-built facility in 2017, we have transformed from a beacon of hope into a hub for innovative programs that serve our community and beyond.
Our facility provides a climate-controlled, safe environment for every animal, featuring dedicated wings for cats, exercise yards for dogs, and a specialized medical suite. Beyond housing, we operate a Community Pet Food Pantry, offer behavioral enrichment, and run our Healthy Paws Clarksdale veterinary clinic to ensure pets stay healthy and with the families who love them.
A shelter pet doesn’t just need a home; they need a chance to show you what love truly means. Whether you choose to adopt a new family member, foster a pet to help them shine, or join our Adventure Paws program for a day of socialization, you are a vital partner in our mission. We take pride in our thoughtful approach to matching, ensuring every animal finds their perfect forever home.
Every milestone we reach is made possible by the unwavering support of our community. We invite you to explore our available pets, learn about our volunteer opportunities, or reach out to us at our 1645 Desoto Avenue location to see how you can help us transform lives, one paw at a time.