1998

In 1998, the Laramie Animal Shelter staff received a generous bequest from Nancy Mabie Harrington’s estate, a devoted animal advocate. This led to the formation of The Laramie Animal Shelter Foundation, Inc. (LASF, Inc.), a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization. The foundation’s initial 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.

2004-07

In 2004, the Laramie Animal Shelter building required extensive repairs, prompting the Foundation to raise funds for additional remodeling. By 2006, they contributed $250,000.00 to the project, covering interim housing for shelter animals during renovations. After reopening in 2007, the Foundation continued providing spay/neuter coupons. They collaborated with local veterinarians to cover the spay/neuter costs for shelter-adopted animals and assisted with medical care expenses if needed.

2012-13

In 2012, recognizing unmet community needs beyond the city shelter’s scope, the Foundation decided to broaden its mission. In 2013, it officially became The Laramie Animal Welfare Society (LAWS), striving to address diverse needs within the community.

Today

We are the same 501(c)(3) corporation, and for more than a decade we funded spays/neuters, major medical expenses, and behavioral training for the animals at the Laramie Animal Shelter, contributing over $527,000 between 2014 and early 2026, when the city moved to fund its shelter directly. Today our energy goes into our own programs: Foster & Adoption programs; a Trap, Neuter, Release (TNR) Program; and support for Albany County people and their pets.