Our Story
In 2015, a small group of volunteers at the St. Louis County Pet Adoption Center came together with one mission: to give heartworm-positive dogs a chance at life. At the time, those dogs had no way out unless a rescue stepped in. So these volunteers raised money, partnered with a vet, and began funding treatment themselves—opening the door to adoption for dogs who previously had no hope.
Since then, more than 200 dogs have received lifesaving heartworm treatment thanks to SAVE. But it didn’t stop there.
Over the years, SAVE has:
- Sponsored countless animals at risk of euthanasia, contributing thousands of dollars toward their care
- Helped adopters facing unexpected medical expenses keep their pets
- Helped stray animals get back to their owners with medical care, food, and other support
- Funded training so adopted pets could stay in their homes
- Sponsored spay/neuter events for owned pets in St. Louis County
- Donated over 100 beds, treats, and toys to shelter pets
- Posted daily for lost pets entering the shelter to help reunite them with their families
- Prepared reunion packets for ACO trucks and community members
None of this happens without our community. Thank you.
Our Mission & Objectives
These objectives guide SAVE's work for the St. Louis County Pet Adoption Center.
1. Prioritize Animal Welfare
We ensure that the welfare of the animals and the community is the first priority in all shelter decisions.
2. Advocate for Animals
We show up, speak up, and keep the spotlight on animals at the St. Louis County Pet Adoption Center.
3. Increase Awareness
We mobilize St. Louis County residents to learn more about the shelter and how they can get involved.
4. Educate Policy Makers
We share shelter issues with policy makers and encourage a proactive approach to resolving them.
100% Volunteer Run
SAVE is 100% volunteer driven, which means all money raised by SAVE goes directly to help the animals. We dedicate hundreds of hours each month to care for animals at the St. Louis County Pet Adoption Center.