About our shelter
Trusted dog and cat shelter in Monroe County, Michigan. We care for dogs and cats until they find forever homes — playful kittens, loyal dogs, and everyone in between get the individualized attention they need to thrive.
Low-stress sheltering
Every pet receives low-stress handling, daily exercise, group play, and temperature-controlled comfort. Our team takes the time needed to get to know each pet as an individual and match them with the right adopter.
Our entire team is certified in the Fear Free program. We also incorporate The Please Program so animals quiet and settle calmly before coming out of their kennel and receiving treats.
Dogs benefit immensely from group playtime. We match dogs in supervised groups of two to five, and encourage volunteers and staff to help dogs learn good leash manners with all four paws on the ground.
Volunteers take shelter dogs out for park strolls, lake visits, and pup cups. Staff often take pets home overnight to relieve kennel stress and give them a sense of home.
Our facility features dedicated air conditioning throughout all dog kennels and the cat room. Animals rotate through office and community cuddle areas to decompress and prepare for family life.
Our legacy & mission
For more than seventy years the Humane Society of Monroe County has rehabilitated and rehomed dogs, puppies, cats, and kittens while promoting responsible pet ownership. Our mission is to provide a safe haven with the love and daily care every homeless pet deserves until they find a forever home.
“Dedicated to providing a safe haven, compassionate care, and second chances for every animal that comes through our doors.”
By the numbers
2025 totals from our annual shelter report.
Shelter routines
A peek inside our daily routines, enrichment programs, and volunteer outings.
Morning Morning routine
Dogs play in matched groups of two to five with staff and volunteers watching every interaction.
7:00 AM: Breakfast and medications. By 8:30 AM, playgroups begin in our outdoor yards. Dogs learn social skills and burn off energy, making them calmer and more relaxed when meeting adopters.
Afternoon Community outing
Volunteers take dogs to parks, lakes, and calm outings that build confidence away from the kennel.
1:00 PM: Afternoon walks and Doggy Day Out. Volunteers take dogs on field trips. These breaks from the shelter reduce stress and sometimes result in an adoption right from the park!
Evening Quiet hours
Air conditioning in dog kennels and the cat room keeps everyone cool and resting well.
5:00 PM: Dinner, final potty breaks, and lights out. The kennels are cleaned and prepared for a quiet night. Staff ensure every animal is comfortable before closing down.
Supporter story
Carmen and Greg have been long-time supporters of the Humane Society and, over the years, have taken in many rescue animals. At our last Auction event, we auctioned off months where the successful bidder could share a story of their experiences with pets in their lives, instead of calendars. They purchased September, and here is their story.
Make a difference
Adoption, volunteering, and giving power everything we do. Volunteers lead playgroups, Doggy Day Out outings, and daily enrichment. When you are ready to adopt, apply, donate, or ask a question, connect with our team!