Upper Peninsula Animal Welfare Shelter
Our Mission
The Upper Peninsula Animal Welfare Shelter (UPAWS) champions the well-being of pets by providing safe shelter, promoting adoption, and fostering a compassionate community through education and supportive services. Our vision is a community where all pets are safe, cared for, and treated with respect.
Who We Are
UPAWS is a local, independent, nonprofit organization run by people who live and work right here in our community. We do not receive operating funds from government agencies, and we are not affiliated with or funded by any national organization; our work is made possible entirely through the generosity of our community.
How We Care
We are proud to operate as a no-kill shelter, ensuring the animals in our care receive the medical and behavioral support they need until they find their perfect home. Our team utilizes a combination of in-shelter care and a dedicated foster network to provide a safe, nurturing environment for every animal. Because we are committed to transparency, we consistently save about 98% of the animals who come through our doors.
Your New Best Friend
Adopting an animal is an exciting experience that adds years of joy to your family and provides a lifetime of comfort to a deserving pet. Our staff is dedicated to helping you find the right match for your lifestyle, answering your questions, and sharing everything we know about the animals in our care. We believe that when you adopt, you are embarking on a wonderful, life-changing partnership.
Join Our Mission
Great friends are found at UPAWS, and your next best friend is waiting for you. We invite you to view our adoptable animals online or visit us during our open hours to see how you can make a difference in an animal's life. Together, we can create a future where every animal finds a safe and loving home.
- Compassionate and dedicated staff
- Comprehensive animal care resources
- Operational friction regarding appointments and transparency
5/29 - UPAWS closes to the public, suspends all services for at least two weeks
GWINN, Mich. (WBUP/WJMN) — In light of the recent parvovirus outbreak, Upper Peninsula Animal Welfare Shelter (UPAWS) is temporarily closing its doors to the public for at least two weeks,
3/18 - Staffer spends 2 nights at animal shelter during historic U.P. blizzard
Inside the snow-buried building, one person ensured all the animals were safe and cared for.
