The Bangor Humane Society is a nonprofit organization serving over 200 communities in northern and eastern Maine since 1869, facilitating the human-animal bond by re-homing and rehabilitating homeless pets through adoption.
Our promise
We will continue to adapt and grow with the ever-evolving world of animal welfare, prioritizing vital services for animals and people in the communities we serve.
A no-kill, open admission shelter
We are committed to promoting the adoption of physically and mentally healthy companion animals. We use euthanasia ONLY as a last humane option. We treat all animals and people with respect, dignity, and integrity.
Largest shelter in Northern and Eastern Maine
As the largest shelter in Northern and Eastern Maine, operating for over 150 years, we serve more than five Maine counties and countless communities. We hold ourselves to the highest standards of safety, care, and cleanliness.
prioritizing spay / neuter
We work diligently to reduce animal overpopulation by increasing awareness of the importance of spay/neuter across our region. We spay or neuter every adopted dog, cat, and rabbit before they leave for their forever homes. For over a decade, we have partnered with area veterinary partners to provide low-cost spay/neuter services for low-income residents in our community.
education and outreach
We educate and train caretakers to develop fulfilling, lifelong relationships with their companion animals. We raise public awareness of the humane treatment of animals through our programs, advocacy, and distribution of informational resources.
Adopt a Pet
At BHS, we believe every match made is a life saved. Welcoming a furry friend into your home improves your life just as much as it helps the animal. Let our friendly and knowledgeable staff take the guesswork out of the process and help find the perfect fit for you, your family, and the pet.
Adopt a PetGive Today
Contributions to the Bangor Humane Society are immediately put to use saving lives and helping animals in need. Your donations are used to provide top-notch care for more than 3,000 animals annually, including routine and extraordinary veterinary care, vaccinations, spay/neuter surgeries, food, shelter, and supplies. Please make a gift today and join us in protecting our community’s most vulnerable.
Give TodayGet Involved
From dog walking to cat kennel cleaning, and dishwashing to off-site events, we can use your help with just about everything! With flexible hours for volunteering and a job to fit nearly any age or skill level, we are confident you'll be a great addition to our team! To learn more about ways you can help, contact our Volunteer and Outreach Director at [email protected]
Get InvolvedPrograms and Events
Paws on Parade
Paws on Parade is our largest annual fundraising event. This annual community dog walk through Downtown Bangor celebrates pets and benefits the animals at the shelter awaiting their forever homes. Join as a sponsor, walk with your dog or with a human companion, or donate to support a Paws participant and help us meet our goal.
Learn MoreSpay/Neuter
BHS provides vouchers for low-cost spay/neuter at area vets for low-income individuals and families. Please contact us at [email protected] to find out if you qualify!
Learn MoreDog's Day Out
This fun program allows community members to take a dog out of the shelter for the day! Dogs get some quality one-on-one time. Shelter staff and volunteers learn how our dogs do outside of the kennel environment. It's a win-win!
*This program is currently on hold due to COVID-19.
Learn More