Northwoods Humane Society

Welcome to Northwoods Humane Society (NHS), your dedicated animal shelter located in Hayward, Wisconsin. Since our inception in 1987, we have evolved from a grassroots foster care network into a fully operational shelter situated on a beautiful 87-acre property, complete with scenic walking trails, a community Bark Park, and dedicated facilities for the care of our animals. At Northwoods Humane Society, we believe in a proactive approach to animal care. Our team of compassionate staff and volunteers diligently assess the individual needs of each animal that comes through our doors. Whether addressing behavioral issues, dietary needs, or health concerns, our commitment is to help every animal transition into a loving, permanent home. An average of 650-700 animals find solace and hope at our shelter each year, receiving comprehensive care including spaying/neutering, vaccinations, health checks, and temperament assessments. As a proud "no-kill" shelter, our euthanization rate remains remarkably low, occurring in cases of severe aggression or terminal illness. We advocate for responsible pet ownership, providing community services such as spay/neuter assistance, pet education programs, and emergency medical support for victims of abuse. Additionally, we support feral cat populations with a Trap Neuter Release program, ensuring their humane treatment in the wild. Volunteering is at the heart of our mission. We actively engage community members through various volunteer roles including dog walking, cat socializing, and support at our thrift shop. The work we accomplish is only possible due to the generosity of our donors and local supporters who share our vision for the humane treatment of animals. We invite you to be part of our journey—whether through adoption, volunteering, or supporting our programs and initiatives. Join us in making a positive impact on the lives of countless animals. For more information, please visit our website or contact us directly at (715) 634-5394.