Fear Free & The Please Program
Our team is Fear Free certified. With The Please Program, animals are asked to settle calmly before coming out of their kennel - quiet feet earn treats and trust.
About our shelter
Dog & cat shelter
A trusted dog and cat shelter in Monroe County, Michigan. We care for every animal until they find their forever home - playful kittens, loyal dogs, and everyone in between get the attention they need to thrive.
- Since 1954 Caring for Monroe County pets and families
- Fear Free certified Low-stress, gentle handling for every animal
- 705 adoptions Pets matched with families in 2025 alone
Meet & greets by appointment
How we care for animals
Certified handling, matched playgroups, and everyday adventures - care built around how each animal learns to trust again.
Playgroups & leash skills
Dogs play in matched groups of two to five with supervision. Volunteers practice polite leash manners, preparing dogs for homes with kids and elderly family members.
Doggy Day Out
Volunteers take dogs out for the day - parks, lakes, pup cups at the drive-thru. Staff often host animals overnight so they know what home feels like.
Comfort in the building
Air conditioning in every kennel and the cat room, a dedicated medical suite, and rotation through office and community spaces for cuddle time.
Our story
A safe haven since 1954
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 - a community nonprofit powered by donors, volunteers, and partners.
Every animal here gets the time, patience, and love they need - until home finds them.
- 1954 Founded Serving Monroe County families and pets
- 705 2025 adoptions Pets matched with forever homes last year
- Fear Free Certified team Low-stress handling in every interaction
A day in the life
From morning playgroups to afternoon outings, every day is built around enrichment.
Morning
Supervised playgroups
Matched groups of two to five dogs play together while staff and volunteers watch every interaction.
Afternoon
Doggy Day Out
Parks, lakes, and drive-thru pup cups - outings that build confidence away from the kennel.
Always
Cuddle time & rest
Animals rotate through office and community spaces for affection, and cool kennels make rest easy.
Get involved
Adoption, volunteering, and giving happen across our site. When you are ready, start with any of these.