Upper Peninsula Animal Welfare Shelter

At UPAWS, great matches come in many different forms. Our special adoption programs help connect more animals with the people who will love them. Eligibility and available pets vary by program, so please ask our adoption team if one of these programs may be right for you.

HIDDEN STARS

Some wonderful pets simply take a little longer to find the right match.

UPAWS Hidden Stars are adoptable pets who have been waiting 45 days or longer. Each one has something special to offer—they’re simply waiting to be discovered.

Through her sponsorship of the program, Andi Goriesky of Select Realty is paying the adoption fees for eligible Hidden Stars.

Take another look. Your Hidden Star may be waiting right here at UPAWS.

SENIORS FOR SENIORS

Great friends can be found at every age.

The Seniors for Seniors Program matches senior cats and dogs with senior adopters who are ready to welcome a loving companion into their lives.

Adopters age 62 and older may adopt an eligible cat or dog age 7 or older with the adoption fee waived.

BUDDY PROGRAM

Sometimes two really are better than one!

Some UPAWS pets have formed a special friendship and would love to continue their lives together. Through the Buddy Program, adopters may adopt one eligible pet and receive 50% off their buddy’s adoption fee.

Ask our adoption team about current pets who may be eligible for the Buddy Program.

WOOFS AND MEOWS FOR THE MILITARY

UPAWS is proud to thank active-duty military members and veterans for their service.

Eligible military members may adopt a cat or dog one year or older, with the adoption fee waived.

To qualify, please bring a valid ID and appropriate military documentation, such as a DD-214, when you come to adopt.

BARN BUDDIES

Looking for a little help around the barn?

Barn Buddies are working cats looking for a safe, warm place to call home. In exchange for food, shelter, and care, they can offer natural rodent control and plenty of personality.

The adoption fee for an eligible Barn Buddy is $10. UPAWS may ask to see your barn setup to ensure it is safe and appropriate.

Click here to learn more about adopting a Barn Buddy.

READY TO MEET YOUR NEW FRIEND?

Visit our available pets and discover who may be waiting for you at UPAWS. Our adoption team will be happy to answer your questions and help you find the right match.