Adoption Process
Benefits of adopting from NHS, an overview of the process and fees.
Benefits of adopting from NHS, an overview of the process and fees.
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 we suggest getting your application out of the way ahead of time. Whichever way is more convenient for you! You can find those online applications below.
Hours are: Monday-Friday: Noon to 6 p.m.
Saturday-Sunday 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
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.
What does "foster to adopt" mean?
Foster to adopt is something we offer for most dog adoptions within our jurisdiction (Omaha/Sarpy County). It means you can bring the dog home for a few days to see how good of a match it is before officially signing the adoption papers.
Can I come look at the pets in person?
Absolutely! You can 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.
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.
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.
Vets Get Pets
The Vets Get Pets program will disburse up to $350 to cover a veteran's pet adoption fees. You must get approved through the VA. Click here for more information.
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!
