Adoption Process

Benefits of adopting from NHS, an overview of the process and fees.

Adoptions

Interesting in adopting? Fantastic! We are so excited to help you find the perfect match!

You are more than welcome to stop by the shelter any time during our adoption hours to see the animals, but you can also apply to be approved online. Whichever way is more convenient for you! You can find those online applications below.

 Dogs      Cats      Critters 

Hours are:  Monday-Friday: Noon to 6 p.m.
                    Saturday-Sunday 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.  

Starting the adoption process

  • Check pets on the website by clicking here or come into the shelter during adoption hours.
  • Fill out an application (either online inside the bios or in person).
  • Once approved, you will receive an email. That can take about 24 hours, but we'll expedite that process if you come in person!
  • You must physically be at the shelter to adopt. We are located at 8929 Fort Street in Omaha, Nebraska.

FAQs

How much do adoptions cost?

The adoption fee for pets will be listed inside each particular animal's bio on our website. That does not include the licensing fee.

Can I come look at the pets in person?

Absolutely! You will need to apply to adopt, but you can certainly walk the kennels any time during our adoption hours.

The line is long! Do I have to wait at the shelter?

You do not. You are welcome to run some errands or grab a coffee. You just have to be at the shelter when it's your turn with a councelor. 

Does the application hold a pet for me?

It does not. We work on a first-come, first-served basis. If you really want a pet, please be at the shelter ASAP!

How old do I have to be to adopt?

Because Nebraska’s legal age to sign a contract is 19, we ask that all adopters are at least 19 years old. Please bring a valid form of ID.

I rent my home/apartment. Can I still adopt?

You need landlord approval for a pet. Please come prepared to show your pet policy, have a signed notification that your landlord approves, or the phone number to call and verify your landlord's requirements. 

What restrictions do the animals have?

We do our best to be as transparent as possible. Please read the animal bios on the website, which will list any restrictions (such as kids, backyards, apartments, other animals, etc.). These restrictions are put in place for the benefit of both the adopters and the animals. We do our best to ensure successful adoptions!

Are the dogs good with cats?

Sometimes it can be hard to know, as there isn't a very good way to test for it that wouldn't add unnecessary stress to both the cat and dog. We use information from previous households to make determinations, but that often isn't readily available. 

What's a critter?

Any adoptable animal that isn't a cat, dog or horse. 

More Information

Foster Adoptions

Pets posted online as residing in Foster Care are not housed at the shelter—but are in private homes. To inquire about, or make an appointment to meet pets in foster care, email fostercare@nehumanesociety.org and include the animals name and ID number in your inquiry.

Diamonds in the Ruff

These dogs are in quieter kennels in our behavior modification program because they don’t do well in the busy general adoption kennel environment. Diamond Dogs just need a little polish to shine!To inquire or make an appointment to meet these dogs, please start by filling out the Diamond Dog online survey.  A representative will get back with you once the application is filled out.  Please include the animals name and ID number in your inquiry. 

Horse Adoptions

Contact our horse program at 402-444-7800, ext. 2286, or send an email for more information or to set up an appointment. 

Omaha Area PetSmart Cat Adoptions

These adoptions sometimes take a bit longer to "process" since PetSmart will finalize adoptions--but the paperwork then comes back to NHS to be uploaded into our records. That lag time means that sometimes cats will still be listed at a store for a day or so after they have been adopted. It is best to call the store to make sure the kitty you are interested in is still available!

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NHS is a not for profit 501-C3 organization; EIN: 47-0378997. Copyright © 2024 Nebraska Humane Society. All Rights Reserved.
8929 Fort Street Omaha, Nebraska 68134
402-444-7800

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