UPAWS Fully Reopens and Reinstates Walk-In Adoptions

Following our temporary closure and recovery efforts in response to a canine parvovirus outbreak, the Upper Peninsula Animal Welfare Shelter (UPAWS) is pleased to announce that we are now fully open to the public.

As part of our reopening, UPAWS has reinstated walk-in adoptions for dogs, cats, and small animals.

Visitors may now stop in during our regular public hours to meet adoptable dogs, cats, and small animals. No appointment is needed to meet adoptable animals.

How to Get Started
Before visiting, please review the Adoption Information page for the type of pet you’re interested in and complete the required Adoption Interest Form.

  • Dogs
  • Cats
  • Small Animals

Adoptions are approved on a first-come, first-served basis. Some animals may have additional placement requirements based on their individual needs.

IMPORTANT INFO – Current Puppy Group

Please note: Our current puppies are NOT available for walk-in visits.
Because of the puppy’s age and special placement requirements, the first step is to complete an Adoption Interest Form.

After we receive your Adoption Interest Form, a member of our adoption team will contact you to discuss the puppies, answer your questions, review important adoption information, including any special placement requirements, and determine the next steps.

Individual puppy photos will be added soon as our staff continues updating our website.

🎉 Special Reopening Adoption Sponsorship

To celebrate UPAWS’ full reopening, Andi Goriesky of Select Realty is sponsoring $50 toward the adoption fee of eligible dogs and puppies Tuesday, June 23, through Thursday, June 25.

Thank you, Andi, for helping more families welcome a new best friend into their homes!
Visit UPAWS

Open Tuesday through Sunday
Noon – 4:00 p.m.

Thank you to our community for your patience, support, and encouragement throughout the past several weeks. We are incredibly grateful and look forward to helping even more families find their newest family member.

We can’t wait to welcome you back to UPAWS!