The Humane Society of East Texas officially became a selective admission, no kill animal sanctuary in January of 2010 operated under the direction of a Board of Directors and the Executive Director. The Humane Society of East Texas is an animal advocate agency. Our goal is to find forever homes for the animals at our shelter and to promote responsible pet ownership.

The Humane Society of East Texas was established in 1963 by concerned citizens after they visited the City of Tyler is inadequate animal impoundment facility. At that time, animals were housed in one small building regardless of the health of the animals. The Society requested that the Tyler impoundment facilities be turned over to the newly founded Humane Society of East Texas. Construction of the animal shelter was completed in 1968 and the Humane Society of East Texas's animal shelter was opened.