Founded in 1879, the Wisconsin Humane Society (WHS) has been saving the lives of animals in need for generations. WHS is an independent, 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization and operates animal shelters in Milwaukee, Ozaukee, Racine, Kenosha, Door, and Brown Counties, as well as a spay/neuter clinic in West Allis. Our Federal Tax ID is: #39-0810533.
WHS annually serves more than 40,000 animals and their families. We receive no general government funding and we are not part of any national umbrella organization. As the largest shelter in the state of Wisconsin, WHS offers the following services:
An adoption program that matches 13,000+ animals with new families each year; we do not euthanize animals to make space in our shelters, and animals in our adoption program have as long as it takes to find a new home
Stray/lost animal and law enforcement holding services for municipalities in Door, Brown, Ozaukee, Racine, and Kenosha Counties, which reunite thousands of pets with their families each year
Intake support and services for surrendered animals from Door, Brown, Ozaukee, Milwaukee, Racine, and Kenosha Counties
Affordable vaccines, microchips, and spay/neuter services open to the public
Pet food pantries that provide pet food, treats, and cat litter, etc. to bridge gaps in accessing these important resources
Community outreach programs that connect families with resources for their pets
A foster program for animals who need extra support or a break from the shelter
Dog training classes for dogs and puppies, as well as online pet support tips for behavior concerns
Youth programs to engage and inspire the next generation of animal lovers
Retail merchandise at our Animal Antics stores at each campus, and online
The Wildlife Rehabilitation Center, which provides rescue, rehabilitation, and release for roughly 5,000 wild animals annually at our Milwaukee Campus.
Mission and Vision
Our mission is to make a difference for animals and the people who love them.
Adoption Policy
You will need a valid photo ID and proof of current address. Adopters must be 18 or older to adopt. If you hope to leave with a new pet, all cats must be in a carrier and dogs must be on a leash. You can purchase these items at the shelter in our retail store where 100% of the proceeds go back to helping animals in need, or you can bring your own!
https://www.wihumane.org/adopt?AnimalType=1
Testimonials
See all testimonials"Organization very helpful with new fosters and committed to helping solve the homeless dog crisis."
— emma s.
Adoptee, Volunteer / foster
"I'm a volunteer, foster, adoptee with WDR. They show immense care for their dogs from HASRA in Alabama and do a lot to rescue dogs in dire need."
— jared p.
Adoptee, Volunteer / foster
"This rescue does an amazing job of saving animals and controlling the pet population in our community."
— sherry b.
Volunteer / foster
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Get your dog the safe enrichment they need by renting a Sniffspot
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David Adams is a man of many passions, but his love for dogs stands above all. He is not only a dog lover, but also the founder of an innovative platform called Sniffspot. This unique platform connects dog owners with private property owners who are willing to rent out their space for off-leash playtime. While the idea of Sniffspot was initially conceived by his wife, Rebecca, David has been the driving force behind its remarkable success, tirelessly overseeing its growth and development.
David's dedication to providing safe and enjoyable spaces for dogs to play, explore, and socialize is evident in his unwavering commitment to Sniffspot. He strongly believes that dogs need ample space and opportunities to stretch their legs and have fun. As a result, he has worked tirelessly to build a network of private property owners across the country who share his vision and are willing to offer their space for the benefit of dogs and their owners.
Despite his busy schedule, David always finds time to indulge in his passion for the great outdoors. He loves nothing more than exploring new hiking trails and embarking on thrilling outdoor adventures. Whenever he is not working on Sniffspot, he can often be found hiking or visiting multi-acre fenced sniffspots with his two beloved dogs, Soba and Toshii. He is an avid outdoorsman who enjoys the fresh air, breathtaking scenery, and the sense of freedom that comes with being in nature.
David is based in Salem, MA.
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