Wisconsin Humane Society
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.
"This rescue does an amazing job of saving animals and controlling the pet population in our community."
— sherry b.
Volunteer / foster
"Organization very helpful with new fosters and committed to helping solve the homeless dog crisis."
— emma s.
Adoptee, Volunteer / foster