The Humane Society of Southwest Missouri is an independent, 501(c)3 non-profit organization licensed by the Missouri Department of Agriculture. We operate the only open-admission humane society in Southwest Missouri. No limits are placed on the number or type of dogs or cats accepted at our shelter. We will not refuse an ill or injured animal or any animal that is not an immediate candidate for adoption.

Funding for the organization comes from private donations. We do not receive any funding from the Humane Society of the United States, Humane Society of Missouri, SPCA, or any government agencies.

Our Mission
The mission of the Humane Society of Southwest Missouri is to aid in the alleviation of distress and suffering of animals by operating a shelter for animals in need of care, placing animals in suitable homes when possible, and offering educational programs that promote animal welfare.

Our Vision
We strive to be the region's leading shelter with the financial and community support to guarantee the welfare of animals and will be focused on controlling pet overpopulation and the reduction of homeless pets in our community.

Many people are surprised to find that adopting a pet is a more involved process than they anticipated. At the Humane Society of Southwest Missouri, our goal is to match potential adopters with a pet that is best suited to their home, interests and lifestyle. While we reserve the right to refuse an adoption, our staff makes every effort to work with potential adopters and help them find their perfect match here at our shelter. Please allow at least one hour for the adoption process.

Don't be discouraged if you don't find the pet you are looking for on your first visit. Adoptable pets are dropped off at our shelter daily. Please keep visiting us and check our website regularly to find your new best friend!

The Adoption application can be downloaded here. Completed applications can be faxed, emailed or dropped off in person. We strongly recommend that all members of the household (including any dogs you own currently) meet the new pet prior to finalizing the adoption.

Adopters must be at least 18 years of age and possess a valid photo ID.

For General Inquiries:
(417) 833-2526

Our Mailing and Physical Address:
3161 W. Norton Road
Springfield, Missouri 65803

Philanthropy is based on voluntary action for the common good. It is a tradition of giving and sharing that is primary to the quality of life. To ensure that philanthropy merits the respect and trust of the general public, and that donors and prospective donors can have full confidence in the nonprofit organizations and causes they are asked to support, we declare that all donors have these rights . . . (Full Bill of Rights) - (Donor Privacy Policy)

Donate On-Line
Over the years, thousands of homeless dogs and cats have found refuge at the Humane Society where great effort was made to find them new families. Still today, we receive no monetary help from federal, state, or local government agencies. Nor do we receive funds from other humane societies.

You can help give animals a second chance at a permanent home by making a donation here.

Monthly Giving
Many of our donors have expressed an interest in setting up monthly contributions from their bank account. We are now able to offer this service through our relationship with Empire Bank. The Authorization Agreement can be found here: Authorization Agreement for Direct Payments

If you would like to donate monthly, please email info@swh.org, or call the shelter.

Thank you for considering this option.

Planned Giving

What is Planned Giving?
Don't let the terms "Estate Planning" or "Planned Giving" confuse or intimidate you. It's really quite simple. It is an excellent way for you to leave something for the care of the animals when you pass away. It's easy to do and a great way to ensure your continued influence on the welfare of pets and their owners for years to come.

To request more information please contact us.