Adopting a Dog or Cat

Northwoods Humane Society (NHS) is open for adoptions Monday to Friday 11:00AM to 6:00PM, Saturday and Sunday 12:00PM to 5:00PM.   We are closed on Easter, Memorial Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, Thanksgiving and Christmas.   All of our animals have a set adoption fee.  This fee helps defray the cost of the medical care, labor and other occupancy costs associated with the shelter.   We do not accept checks for adoptions.  We accept cash, credit cards or debit cards.  You do not need an appointment to visit an animal.  Adoptions conclude 15 minutes before closing each day. 

Criteria for Adoption:

• If you rent you should bring your lease agreement with; or a letter from your landlord that states your pet regulations.  Many trailer parks, town homes and apartments have size and breed limits on pets, so please review these before considering adoption.

• You must be a minimum of 21 years of age to adopt an animal and present a valid Minnesota Identification or Drivers License. 

• We do not put animals on hold for local adoptions.  Animals viewed on the internet may be held for travel time. 

• Adoption Discounts:  Volunteer and Senior Citizens (55 years and older) receive a discount of 15% for adoption fee only.  No other discounts apply.

• Powerful Breed Dogs; including but not limited to: American Staffordshire Terriers, Pit Bulls, Rottweilers, will be adopted out with an interview with a staff member or the Animal Care Committee.  Not every applicant will qualify.  Please research these breeds and the responsibility that goes with their ownership. 

NHS strongly recommends a fenced yard for dogs and keeping cats indoors but will evaluate and consider each situation.

When evaluating a pet for adoption, please listen to the advice of staff and volunteers. We want you to have the best match for your family so your new pet is a good fit for your lifestyle. 

NHS reserves the right to refuse an adoption to anyone.

Please do not take the adoption of an animal lightly.  Consider the commitment of time, money and love that comes with owning a pet; a cat or dog could have a life expectancy of 12 to 20 years!

You may print a copy of our Adoption Application and Contract here.