The Whitman County Humane Society (WCHS) was established following concerns over budget cuts affecting the Pullman Animal Shelter, as reported in a Daily News article. Founded on February 16, 2000, by community leaders including Ray and Cathy Schulhauser, WCHS initially managed the city's shelter. Recognizing the need for humane animal care, WCHS adopted a no-kill policy in July 2000, preventing the euthanasia of adoptable animals due to space constraints.

In April 2010, WCHS moved operations to AnimalHaven, a modern facility made possible by significant donations. AnimalHaven features an octagonal dog facility and the Gardner House, named in honor of Inge Gardner, providing housing for cats and administrative offices. The Lauren McCluskey Cat Wing, added later through community support, expanded the facility's capacity for cat housing and storage. This wing commemorates Lauren McCluskey's dedication to animal welfare, as she volunteered at WCHS and had a profound love for animals.