Kanawha-Charleston Humane Association
Our Mission
The Kanawha-Charleston Humane Association is dedicated to saving the lives of animals through compassionate sheltering, adoption, foster care, and community outreach. We work every day to create a future where every animal has the opportunity to thrive and find a loving, lifelong home.
A Legacy of Lifesaving
Since 1935, we have been a cornerstone of animal welfare in West Virginia. In 2013, we shifted to a progressive, lifesaving model that focuses on individualized care and positive outcomes, helping us achieve a save rate of 95%—surpassing the national no-kill benchmark.
How We Care
Every animal in our care receives comprehensive medical attention, behavior evaluations, and enrichment to reduce stress. We rely on a blend of shelter-based care and a robust foster network to ensure our pets are healthy, socialized, and ready to become a cherished part of your family.
Your Role in Their Journey
Adoption is a joyful partnership, and our team is committed to finding the perfect match for both you and your new companion. By browsing our available animals and engaging with our staff, you are helping us continue this vital work and providing a second chance to a pet in need.
Join Our Pack
We invite you to meet your new best friend today! You can browse our currently adoptable cats and dogs online, visit our shelter for a meet and greet, or learn more about how you can support our mission through volunteering or fostering. Together, we can build a community that celebrates the human-animal bond.
- Staff passion and dedication
- Supportive adoption process
- Operational friction and perceived rudeness
9/26 - One Month at a Time: The right dog is the one you one you can't resist
During another visit to the Kanawha Charleston Humane Association, columnist Bill Lynch encounters a puppy he just can't resist.
9/8 - Flood Rescue Puppy Finds Forever With Two First Responders Who Run Toward Disaster for a Living | GreaterGood
Uplifting rescue dog adoption story: RVCA, saved from West Virginia floods, thrives with two first responders.
8/21 - Charleston animal shelter operations back to normal despite weekend flooding
Despite power outages and flooding on Aug. 16, 2026, the Kanawha-Charleston Humane Association animal shelter in Charleston, West Virginia remains open and is ready for adoptions.
5/27 - KCHA, Optimum and ASPCA unite to find homes for pets
CHARLESTON, W.Va. (WOWK)– As the summer season begins, the Kanawha Charleston Humane Association, Optimum, and the ASPCA are working to unite animals with their forever homes. Sarah Tolley, d…
