Showing up for the animals of Albany County since 1998.
The Laramie Animal Shelter staff received a generous bequest from the estate of Nancy Mabie Harrington, a devoted animal advocate. This led to the formation of The Laramie Animal Shelter Foundation, Inc. (LASF), a 501(c)(3) nonprofit. The Foundation’s first mission was to provide extra funding and support for a spay/neuter coupon program, encouraging local pet owners to spay and neuter their animals to reduce unwanted litters.
When the shelter building needed extensive repairs, the Foundation raised funds for remodeling, contributing $250,000 by 2006 and covering interim housing for animals during renovations. After the shelter reopened in 2007, the Foundation continued providing spay/neuter coupons, collaborated with local veterinarians to cover spay and neuter costs for shelter-adopted animals, and assisted with medical care expenses when needed.
Recognizing unmet community needs beyond the city shelter's scope, the Foundation broadened its mission. In 2013 it officially became The Laramie Animal Welfare Society (LAWS), striving to address diverse needs within the community.
We are the same 501(c)(3) corporation. Between 2014 and early 2026, we funded more than $527,000 in spays, neuters, major medical expenses, and behavioral training for animals at the Laramie Animal Shelter. In early 2026, the Laramie Animal Shelter announced the formation of the Laramie Animal Shelter Support Organization (LASSO), a separate nonprofit created specifically to support the shelter. With this transition, LAWS is no longer responsible for the shelter’s veterinary expenses and can focus its resources on our own programs. Today, our work includes Foster & Adoption programs, Trap-Neuter-Return (TNR), and direct support for Albany County people and their pets.
In the spring of 2024, we took a huge step forward: we purchased our first permanent building. This space gives us a foundation to grow, but it still needs work to become a true safe haven.
The roof, heating, electrical, and flooring are done. The remaining work is finishing the rooms so the building is safe, functional, and welcoming for both animals and the people who care for them. With your help, we can transform this building into a warm, healing space where animals find love and begin new chapters.
See the Almost Home Project
Most of the animals you see on this site were photographed by people who donated their time and their craft to a rescue that could not have afforded either.
The rest are by LAWS volunteers, fosters and staff, usually one-handed, usually with an animal trying to eat the phone.
If a photo of yours is on this site and your name is not here, tell us at hello@laramieanimals.org and we will fix it.
