Humane Society of West Michigan
Our Mission
The Humane Society of West Michigan is dedicated to inspiring a humane future for animals through education and support. We strive to build a healthy, safe, and compassionate community where every animal is respected, protected, and receives the care they deserve.
Our History and Commitment
With a legacy dating back to 1883, we have grown from a small group of concerned citizens into a leading animal welfare organization serving Kent County and beyond. Today, we operate out of our 28-acre facility in Walker, Michigan, serving as a haven for companion animals while actively working to end pet overpopulation through education and advocacy.
How We Care
We are proud to be a Fear Free shelter that utilizes the internationally recognized Five Freedoms to ensure every animal feels safe and secure during their stay. Our dedicated staff and over 300 volunteers provide personalized enrichment, medical care, and behavioral support for every animal that comes through our doors. By managing our intake capacity mindfully, we ensure that every resident receives the high-quality, compassionate attention they need while awaiting their forever family.
Finding Your New Best Friend
Adoption is a joyful journey, and our goal is to help you find a perfect, lasting match. We believe we are better together, which is why our expert behavior department offers resources, training classes, and consultations to support you and your new pet long after you leave our facility. Whether you are looking for a playful puppy, a calm senior dog, or a cuddly cat, our team is here to guide you through the process.
Join Our Community
Ready to meet your new family member? We invite you to explore our adoptable animals online, visit us at our Walker location, or reach out to our team via email at adoptions@hswestmi.org to start your adoption journey today. We cannot wait to help you make a difference in an animal's life!
- Friendly and dedicated staff
- Community support programs
- Operational friction with digital application processes
9/22 - Fendi The Puppy Needs Patience And Love, Not A Perfect Home. Humane Society Has Free Dog Adoption Week September 22-27
Fendi's a young pup at the Humane Society who's still figuring out the world. The shelter's running Free Dog Adoption Week through September 27, waiving fees for dogs six months and older.
9/21 - Bark Fest brings 27 Organizations together for Dog Week
National Dog Week runs Sept. 20-26, and this year, 27 organizations serving dogs and their owners across West Michigan are coming together for a community event in Grand Rapids.
9/11 - Friday's Friend: Wolverine
Every week, the Fox 17 Morning Mix features an adoptable animal from the Humane Society of West Michigan, sponsored by Mike Morse Law Firm!
8/22 - This Lonely, Loveable Dog Looking for Forever Home in West Michigan
Magee is a 2-year-old mixed breed at the Humane Society of West Michigan who loves people but does best as the only pet at home. Free adoptions for animals six months and older run this Saturday from 11 to 4.
8/14 - Friday's Friend: Lyra
Every week, the Fox 17 Morning Mix features an adoptable animal from the Humane Society of West Michigan, sponsored by Mike Morse Law Firm!
8/4 - Zero Is A 6-month-old Pup At Humane Society Of West Michigan Looking For A Forever Home
A 6-month-old puppy named Zero is looking for a home through the Humane Society of West Michigan, and she already knows how to share space with other dogs.
7/14 - HSWM Is Overflowing With Kittens And Cats Right Now — Butterscotch And Princess Are Ready To Go
Butterscotch and Princess are eight-week-old kittens at the Humane Society of West Michigan, where staff say they have more cats than they can handle and need adopters soon.
7/7 - Apple Jack Came From A Detroit Dog Fighting Ring — Now He's Looking For A Quiet Home In Grand Rapids
Apple Jack spent his early years in a Detroit dog fighting ring, but this friendly tan dog is now in Grand Rapids and hoping to find a home where he can be the center of attention.
5/26 - Pet Adoption Tuesday: Meet Lana!
It's Pet Adoption Tuesday, and the Humane Society of West Michigan is introducing Lana the 1-year-old puppy!
4/27 - Reduced Pet Adoptions Return This Spring in Michigan
Over 20 Michigan shelters are joining a major adoption push with reduced fees and pets going home already spayed or neutered, vaccinated, and microchipped.
