Upper Peninsula Animal Welfare Shelter

Great Friends Found Here. Visit UPAWS

Adoption Information

We’re excited to welcome walk-in adopters!

No appointment is needed to meet our adoptable small animals during our regular open hours.

Step 1: An Adoption Interest Form Is Required

An Adoption Interest Form is required before meeting any adoptable animal at UPAWS.

You may complete the form online before your visit or fill one out when you arrive at the shelter.

The Adoption Interest Form link is located at the bottom of this page. Please take a moment to review the information below before completing the form.

Step 2: Meet the Small Animal(s)

Once your Adoption Interest Form has been submitted, our staff will help you meet the small animal(s) you’re interested in.

During busy periods, staff may limit the length of meet-and-greets to ensure everyone has a fair opportunity to visit with the animals. We appreciate your understanding and patience as we work to provide every potential adopter with the best possible adoption experience.

Step 3: Find Your Match

Our staff will answer your questions, share everything we know about the animal, and help you determine whether it’s the right fit for your home and lifestyle.

Step 4: Complete Your Adoption

Adoptions are first-come, first-served, and first approved.

Once you’ve found your match, we’ll complete the adoption paperwork and send you home with your newest family member.


Additional Adoption Requirements

Some small animals have additional adoption requirements based on their individual needs. These requirements will be noted in their profile, and our staff will be happy to explain any additional steps.

Additional requirements may include:

  • Medical consultations or ongoing care requirements
  • Special care considerations
  • Other placement requirements specific to that animal

Small Animal Adoption Includes

Our small animals receive species-appropriate veterinary care prior to adoption. Veterinary care varies depending on the species and may include:

  • Spay or neuter (when applicable)
  • Health examination by a veterinarian (or a certificate to receive a health check, when applicable)
  • Parasite screening and treatment as needed
  • Other species-appropriate veterinary care

Small Animal Adoption Fees

Examples include:

  • Rabbits: $40
  • Guinea Pigs: $35

Other small-animal adoption fees vary based on the species and the veterinary care provided.

Please see each animal’s profile for current adoption fees, as fees vary by species.


Ready to Meet Your New Best Friend?

The next step is to complete the required Adoption Interest Form.

➡️ Complete the Adoption Interest Form

Contact Us

Phone: (906) 475-6661
Fax: (906) 475-6669
Email: info@upaws.org

Shelter Hours

Monday: CLOSED
Tuesday: 12-4 PM
Wednesday: 12-4 PM
Thursday: 12-4 PM
Friday: 12-4 PM
Saturday: 12-4 PM
Sunday: 12-4 PM

Location

815 South State Highway M553
Gwinn, MI 49841
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