About L.A.W.S.

LAWS is an independent organization dedicated to promoting the well-being of all animals. It is a registered charity (#BN 11900 4893 RR0001) that survives solely on private donations, receiving no funding from any level of government. Every year the shelter staff deals with over 2500 animals. These are lost, abused, or abandoned animals which are cared for until their rightful owners can be found or they can be placed in new homes.

Our Mission Statement:
To promote the welfare of all animals, to provide shelter and care, and prevent cruelty and suffering for those animals in need.

LAWS History
The Lanark Animal Welfare Society was founded 30 years ago. Initially it was an independent society with a small shelter just outside of Lanark Village. In 1986 LAWS purchased one acre of land on Glenview Road and, with the help of 600 supporters, built a small shelter that housed 12 dogs and a few cats. A cat wing was later added and over the years, the additions have resulted in a shelter which can now house almost one hundred cats, dogs and other small animals.

In the early 1990’s, LAWS became an affiliate of the Ontario S.P.C.A. allowing it to conduct cruelty investigations. In 2002, LAWS hired a full time trained cruelty investigator (agent). 

LAWS provides emergency shelter for more than 1,300 animals each year. LAWS receives no funding from any governmental source. Its operating expenses are met from donations from its members, supporters, adoption fees and fundraising activities such as garage sales, raffles, craft sales etc.

The LAWS shelter runs under the supervision of a small paid staff assisted by volunteers who help clean cages, feed and walk the animals and run various events and fundraisers. Some of these volunteers also serve as members for the Board of Directors, helping to make decisions in the operation of the shelter, with a view to improving the long term well being of all animals in this County. Together we can continue to provide shelter for these gentle creatures who do not have a voice of their own.