Update: Our kennel space crisis is even tighter after the shelter suffered significant flood damage from a broken pipe, especially in our medical department. To continue taking care of animals without a home, we are unable to take surrendered pets at this time. If you need to surrender, we ask that you hold onto your pets for a little longer or consider other options, such as those listed below.

Surrendering a Pet

Giving up a Pet

Giving up a pet is a heart-wrenching decision, but sometimes there seems to be no other option for a pet owner. We understand that financial concerns, illness, moving to a home that won’t accept pets and unwanted litters can put owners in a no-win situation.

The Nebraska Humane Society offers resources to help keep animals in loving homes, and we urge pet owners to consider other options before deciding to surrender their animals. Due to limited space, NHS needs to limit the number of animals in shelter. We are still taking all strays from our jurisdiction. But we are accepting owner-surrendered animals only as a last resort. Below are steps to help keep your pet in your home or alternative methods to rehome them without bringing them into the shelter.

Helpful Tips to Keep Your Pet

If behavior is the issue (Fluffy stopped using the litter box or Spot continuously barks), our FREE behavior helpline offers advice and solutions to owners at their wits end.
NHS offers a wide range of training classes in a private or group setting, that focus on a positive approach when working with you and your dog if behavior and manners are an issue.
Our free pet food pantry can help with pet food and supplies such as cat litter.
Only need someone to temporarily care for your pets? Consider trying to find a foster home through Home to Home.

Rehome on Your Own

Check with family, friends, colleagues and neighbors first to see if your pet might be placed with a familiar person who already loves them.
If no one can take your pet, try using a free rehoming website such as Home to Home, Adopt a Pet or Get Your Pet.

Home to Home Adopt a Pet Get Your Pet

Make NHS a Last Resort

If you are a resident of Omaha or Sarpy County and are unable to keep your pet for safety reasons, eviction, the pet is sick, injured or aggressive etc., and you've exhausted all other rehoming methods, our staff will evaluate and accept pets on a case-by-case basis at the shelter.

Hours: Weekdays Noon-7 p.m. / Weekends 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

Si necesita ayuda para completar un formulario de solicitud de entrega en español, llame al 402-905-3462 ext 2262 para dejar un mensaje de voz. Un representante de servicio al cliente de habla hispana lo llamará para ayudarlo.