Winona Area Humane Society

About Us

Winona Area Humane Society (WAHS) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit animal shelter organization, operating since 1992, that relies on donations to cover the cost of caring for cats & dogs, spaying/neutering each adopted animal, and operating the facility. Our mission to assist homeless animals is achieved through dedicated volunteers, fundraising, individual donations, and adoption/surrender fees; we do not receive state or federal funding. Through our adoption services, over 200 pets find forever homes each year. In addition to finding forever homes for stray, surrendered, and abandoned cats & dogs, we also seek to reunite lost animals with their families.

Each and every day, staff and volunteers provide humane care and treatment for animals needing protection, following research-based standards from the field of shelter care. And since WAHS is a no-kill shelter, there is no limit on the amount of time an animal can remain in our building until finding an adopter. While it's our mission to take in and adopt out as many dogs and cats as possible, we need YOU to help us help them and reach our goals.

GTMD 2025

In 2025, increased veterinary bills and more emergency cases have significantly impacted WAHS, putting a strain on already limited resources. To mitigate the widening gap between substantial medical cases and standard adoption fees, our Give to the Max Day goal this year is to build up our recently established Emergency Medical Fund.

The Emergency Medical Fund covers medical bills for a wide variety of situations including acute injuries requiring urgent or emergency room visits, medication for severe or prolonged illnesses, and crucial medical procedures or treatments that must be performed before an animal is cleared for adoption. A specific medical fund allows WAHS to fundraise for individual cases as they arise, direct any remaining funds towards the next pet in critical need, and - most importantly - confidently say 'yes' to helping as many pets as possible.

We welcome anyone able to join us in this goal to give through the Donate button above, through PayPal, or directly on our website at winonahumane.org/donate.  While it might sound cliche, every dollar truly does matter - especially when a lot of people come together to give what they can. From our team of staff, volunteers, and the animals who need you most, thank you for your consideration!