Adoption Process

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

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. 

Absolutely! You can walk the kennels any time during our adoption hours.

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 counselor.

Line wait times:

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

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.

We do our best to be as transparent as possible with what we know about an animal's history and to place them in an appropriate home. We will discuss any "restrictions" (such as kids, 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!

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.

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

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.

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.

Diamond Dogs are dogs that are currently getting extra work or training with our behavior staff and volunteers. These dogs may be a little more nervous in the shelter or with new people. They may also be dogs that are very friendly and just need a little help working on their manners!

Diamond Dogs are 'gems' that just need the right 'setting' to sparkle as their very best self!

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 reviewed. You can also visit the shelter and ask if a behavior staff member is available to chat!

Occasionally, the Nebraska Humane Society rescues a horse. Please contact our horse program at 402-444-7800, ext. 2286, or send an email for more information.