In the heart of Southwestern New Hampshire, the Monadnock Animal Shelter, officially known as the Monadnock Humane Society (MHS), stands as a symbol of compassion, community, and hope. This nonprofit organization has dedicated decades to rescuing, sheltering, and rehoming animals in need, while also promoting responsible pet ownership and animal welfare education.
Whether you’re looking to adopt a pet, volunteer, or simply support a meaningful cause, the Monadnock Animal Shelter is an invaluable part of the Monadnock Region’s community spirit.
Let’s take a deep look at what this organization does, its mission, and how you can get involved.
About Monadnock Humane Society (Monadnock Animal Shelter)
The Monadnock Humane Society (MHS) is a nonprofit animal welfare organization located in Swanzey, New Hampshire, just outside Keene. Serving the greater Monadnock Region, MHS has become a trusted refuge for homeless, neglected, and abandoned animals since its founding in 1875 — making it one of the oldest humane societies in New England.
Mission Statement
The mission of Monadnock Animal Shelter is to:
- Strengthen the bond between people and animals.
- Provide shelter, care, and adoption services for animals in need.
- Promote humane education and responsible pet ownership.
- Prevent cruelty and neglect through advocacy and community outreach.
Their team of dedicated staff, veterinarians, and volunteers works tirelessly to ensure every animal receives the love, care, and medical attention they deserve.
Facilities and Location
📍 Address: 101 W Swanzey Road, Swanzey, NH 03446
📞 Phone: (603) 352-9011
🌐 Website: www.monadnockhumanesociety.org
The shelter operates out of a modern facility that includes:
- Spacious dog kennels and cat housing areas
- A small animal room for rabbits, guinea pigs, and birds
- An on-site veterinary clinic and spay/neuter center
- Indoor and outdoor training and play areas
These facilities enable MHS to care for hundreds of animals every year while ensuring a safe, clean, and nurturing environment.
Adoption Services: Finding Forever Homes
At the heart of the Monadnock Animal Shelter’s mission is its adoption program, which connects loving families with pets in need.
Every year, MHS helps hundreds of cats, dogs, and small animals find their forever homes throughout New Hampshire and nearby states.
Adoption Process
The process is simple, transparent, and designed to ensure the best match between pet and adopter:
- Browse Available Pets: Visit the shelter or the MHS website’s adoption listings to view adoptable animals.
- Submit an Application: Fill out an adoption form online or in person.
- Meet-and-Greet: Spend time interacting with the animal to ensure compatibility.
- Home Evaluation: Some adoptions (especially dogs) may require a quick check of your home environment.
- Adoption Finalization: Once approved, you can take your new companion home — complete with medical records and vaccination history.
What’s Included in Adoption
All adopted animals come:
- Spayed or neutered
- Vaccinated and microchipped
- Vet-checked and socialized
- Often with a starter kit for new pet parents
MHS’s adoption counselors are always ready to help guide you in choosing the right pet for your lifestyle — whether it’s a playful kitten, a loyal senior dog, or a small rescue rabbit.
Community Programs and Services
Beyond adoptions, the Monadnock Humane Society plays a vital role in the broader community through its outreach and educational programs.
1. Low-Cost Spay and Neuter Clinic
To combat overpopulation, MHS offers affordable spay and neuter services for cats and dogs. This program helps reduce unwanted litters while promoting the health and longevity of local pets.
2. Pet Food Pantry
The MHS Pet Food Pantry provides free or low-cost pet food to families facing temporary financial hardship — ensuring pets can stay with their families rather than entering the shelter system.
3. Humane Education
The organization hosts school visits, summer camps, and educational workshops that teach children and adults about kindness, respect, and empathy toward animals.
4. Training and Behavior Classes
Certified trainers run obedience, puppy socialization, and behavior modification classes, helping pet owners build stronger relationships with their animals.
5. Lost and Found Services
The shelter also maintains an online Lost and Found Pet Database and partners with local animal control officers to reunite pets with their families as quickly as possible.
Through these programs, the Monadnock Animal Shelter ensures that animal welfare goes beyond the shelter walls — it becomes a community responsibility.
Volunteer and Foster Opportunities
The success of Monadnock Humane Society wouldn’t be possible without its network of volunteers and foster caregivers.
Volunteer Roles
Volunteers play a crucial part in daily operations by:
- Walking dogs and socializing cats
- Assisting with cleaning and feeding routines
- Helping at community adoption events
- Supporting administrative and fundraising efforts
Foster Care Program
MHS also runs a foster program for animals who need special care outside the shelter, including:
- Newborn kittens or puppies too young for adoption
- Animals recovering from surgery or illness
- Shy or anxious pets needing socialization
Becoming a foster caregiver is an incredibly rewarding experience — it provides animals with a safe, loving home environment until they’re ready for adoption.
Those interested in volunteering or fostering can apply through the Monadnock Humane Society’s official website, where orientations are held regularly.
How to Support Monadnock Animal Shelter
The Monadnock Humane Society is a nonprofit organization that relies heavily on donations, memberships, and community support to continue its mission.
Here are several ways you can make a difference:
1. Donate
You can make a one-time or recurring donation online through the MHS website. Contributions help cover:
- Veterinary care and medical supplies
- Food, bedding, and enrichment toys
- Shelter maintenance and staff support
2. Become a Member
Join the MHS Membership Program to stay updated on events, receive newsletters, and take part in special recognition programs.
3. Attend Fundraising Events
From annual galas and pet walks to charity auctions, MHS hosts a variety of fun events that raise funds for animal care and community outreach.
4. Sponsor a Kennel or Animal
You can directly impact a pet’s life by sponsoring an animal or kennel space, helping provide food, shelter, and medical treatment until adoption.
Every dollar donated helps MHS save lives — ensuring the shelter can continue providing compassionate care for years to come.
Why Monadnock Humane Society Matters
The Monadnock Animal Shelter is more than just a safe haven for homeless animals — it’s a pillar of compassion in the community. By addressing the root causes of animal homelessness, promoting education, and uniting people around a shared purpose, MHS helps create a world where every pet has a loving home.
Their work reflects the best of what community-driven organizations can achieve — combining heart, dedication, and action to protect those who cannot speak for themselves.
If you live in the Monadnock Region and care about animal welfare, consider supporting the shelter through adoption, donation, or volunteerism. Together, we can make a lasting difference — one paw at a time.
FAQs
1. Where is the Monadnock Humane Society located?
It’s located at 101 W Swanzey Road, Swanzey, NH 03446, just a few miles from downtown Keene.
2. How can I adopt a pet from MHS?
Visit their website or shelter in person to view adoptable animals and fill out an adoption application.
3. Does MHS offer low-cost veterinary services?
Yes, the shelter runs an affordable spay/neuter and vaccination clinic for local pet owners.
4. How can I volunteer or foster an animal?
You can sign up on their official website under the “Get Involved” section.
5. Is the Monadnock Humane Society a nonprofit?
Yes — it is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, meaning all donations are tax-deductible and directly support animal welfare efforts.
