Midlands Humane Society (MHS) serves as the central hub for animal welfare in Council Bluffs and the broader Pottawattamie County area. While many residents search for a "Council Bluffs Humane Society," the Midlands Humane Society is the official organization dedicated to protecting, nurturing, and rehoming companion animals in this region. This facility is more than just a shelter; it is a comprehensive resource for pet owners, animal lovers, and the community at large.

Essential Contact Information and Hours of Operation

For anyone needing immediate assistance with pet adoptions, lost and found reports, or community services, the following details are essential for planning your visit to the facility.

  • Address: 1020 Railroad Ave, Suite A, Council Bluffs, IA 51503
  • Phone Number: 712-396-2270
  • Official Website: midlandshumanesociety.org
  • Email: info@midlandshumanesociety.org

Regular Business Hours

Understanding when the facility is open to the public is crucial, as their hours vary between weekdays and weekends.

  • Monday through Friday: 12:00 PM – 6:00 PM
  • Saturday: 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM
  • Sunday: Closed
  • Special Note: The facility remains closed on the third Wednesday of every month to allow for intensive staff training and organizational meetings. This ensures that the team remains updated on the latest animal care protocols and community safety standards.

The Role of Midlands Humane Society in Pottawattamie County

Midlands Humane Society was legally formed in 2006, born from a vision of local animal advocates who recognized the need for a modern, compassionate facility in Council Bluffs. In 2015, MHS officially opened its doors at the Railroad Avenue location, transitioning the community toward a more structured and humane approach to managing homeless and stray animals.

As the only humane society serving Pottawattamie County, MHS operates as an IRS 501(c)(3) non-profit organization. It currently employs a dedicated staff of approximately 38 people, led by an executive leadership team focused on high-quality animal care and high live-release rates. In recent fiscal years, MHS has managed an annual budget of over $1.3 million, reflecting the scale of the operations required to care for thousands of animals each year.

Relationship with Animal Control

One common point of confusion for Council Bluffs residents is the distinction between Animal Control and the Humane Society.

  • Council Bluffs Animal Control: Responsible for enforcing city ordinances, picking up stray animals, and responding to animal-related complaints. They can be reached at 712-328-4656.
  • Midlands Humane Society: Acts as the physical destination for animals picked up by Animal Control. Once an animal is brought to MHS, the shelter provides medical care, food, and housing while waiting for the owner to reclaim the pet or for the adoption process to begin.

Comprehensive Animal Services in Council Bluffs

Midlands Humane Society offers a suite of services designed to support the entire lifecycle of pet ownership and community animal health.

Pet Adoptions and Matchmaking

The primary mission of MHS is to find "forever homes" for cats, dogs, and small animals like rabbits. Unlike traditional shelters that may focus solely on numbers, MHS emphasizes a "matchmaking" philosophy. The adoption team engages in open conversations with potential adopters to understand their lifestyle, activity level, and expectations.

Each animal adopted from MHS comes with a significant package of care already completed:

  • Spaying/Neutering: To combat pet overpopulation.
  • Microchipping: Providing a permanent identification method.
  • Vaccinations: Including core shots and deworming.
  • Medical Evaluation: Treatment for any known health issues before the pet leaves the facility.

Lost and Found Pet Procedures

If you have lost a pet in Council Bluffs, MHS is the first place you should contact. All animals picked up by city or county animal control are brought here.

  1. 72-Hour Holding Period: For stray animals with no known owner, there is a mandatory 72-hour hold. This window is critical for owners to visit the shelter and reclaim their pets.
  2. Reclaiming Fees: Owners may be required to pay small fees to cover the cost of boarding and care during the animal's stay.
  3. Lost Reports: Staff at MHS can help you file a lost pet report and check their internal database against incoming animals.

Low-Cost Microchipping for the Public

Prevention is the best way to ensure lost pets return home. MHS offers microchipping services to the general public. This small electronic chip, about the size of a grain of rice, is injected under the animal's skin and carries a unique ID number linked to the owner's contact information. It is an indisputable means of identification that cannot fall off like a collar.

Community Pet Food Pantry

Recognizing that economic hardships can sometimes make it difficult for families to feed their pets, MHS operates a Pet Food Pantry. This service aims to keep pets in their current homes rather than seeing them surrendered to the shelter due to financial constraints. Residents in need can visit the facility during regular hours to access supplemental pet food.

End-of-Life and Cremation Services

Dealing with the loss of a pet is a difficult experience. MHS provides professional and compassionate cremation services for the community. Owners can choose between:

  • Private Cremation: Where the pet is cremated individually, and the ashes are returned to the owner.
  • Group Cremation: A more communal approach for those who do not wish to have the remains returned but want a respectful final arrangement.

Understanding the Impact: By the Numbers

The scale of work performed at 1020 Railroad Ave is significant. Based on recent annual reports, the impact on the Pottawattamie County community is measurable:

  • Admissions: Approximately 2,847 stray and relinquished animals are admitted annually.
  • Reclaims: Nearly 400 animals are successfully reunited with their original owners each year.
  • Adoptions: Over 1,750 animals find new homes annually.
  • Live Release Rate: MHS maintains an 85.5% live release rate, a testament to their commitment to saving lives and finding alternatives to euthanasia through foster programs and rescue partnerships.
  • Foster Care: Around 491 animals are placed in temporary foster homes each year, providing a quieter environment for recovery or growth before adoption.

How the Community Can Support Midlands Humane Society

As a non-profit, MHS relies heavily on the generosity of Council Bluffs and the surrounding Omaha-Council Bluffs metro area.

Donations and the "Wish List"

Financial contributions are always accepted and are tax-deductible. However, "in-kind" donations are equally valuable. MHS maintains a "Wish List" of items frequently needed for daily operations:

  • High-quality cat and dog food (wet and dry).
  • Cat litter (non-clumping is often preferred for kittens).
  • Cleaning supplies like paper towels, bleach, and laundry detergent.
  • Pet toys and enrichment items to keep animals mentally stimulated during their stay.

Volunteer Opportunities

MHS offers various ways for individuals to get involved, from hands-on animal care to administrative support.

  • Animal Enrichment: Volunteers help walk dogs, socialize cats, and play with small animals to ensure they remain "adoption-ready."
  • Daily Cleaning: Assisting the staff with the vital task of maintaining a hygienic environment for over 150-200 animals on-site.
  • Off-Site Events: Helping with adoption fairs and community outreach programs throughout the year.

Youth Programs and Education

Educating the next generation of pet owners is a core value for MHS. The organization offers facility tours and youth-oriented volunteer opportunities. These programs focus on responsible pet ownership, the importance of vaccinations, and the human-animal bond.

What to Expect When Visiting the Facility

When you arrive at 1020 Railroad Avenue, you will find a facility designed for both accessibility and animal safety.

  • Accessibility: The entrance and car park are wheelchair-accessible, ensuring all community members can visit.
  • The Kennel Environment: Animals are grouped by type. Staff members are available to guide you to specific kennels and answer questions regarding an animal's temperament or medical history.
  • Application Process: If you find a pet you wish to adopt, be prepared to fill out an application. This is not a "same-day" transaction in many cases, as the staff takes the time to verify information to ensure the best possible match for the animal.

Summary of Key Information for Residents

Midlands Humane Society is the cornerstone of animal care in Council Bluffs. Whether you are looking to add a new member to your family, have lost a beloved pet, or want to contribute to a noble cause, MHS provides the infrastructure and heart needed to serve the community. Their commitment to a high live-release rate and comprehensive public services like the food pantry and microchipping makes them a vital partner in local public health and safety.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is the phone number for the Council Bluffs Humane Society?

While the official name is Midlands Humane Society, you can reach them at 712-396-2270. For city animal control issues (like noise complaints or picking up a stray), call 712-328-4656.

Is Midlands Humane Society a no-kill shelter?

MHS is committed to a high "Live Release Rate" (currently around 85.5%). This means they work tirelessly to find homes, fosters, or rescue partners for every healthy and treatable animal. They do not euthanize for space, though they may perform the service for animals with severe medical issues or extreme aggression that poses a public safety risk.

How much does it cost to adopt a pet?

Adoption fees at Midlands Humane Society vary based on the age and type of the animal. These fees help cover the cost of spaying/neutering, vaccinations, and microchipping that every pet receives. It is best to call 712-396-2270 for current pricing.

Can I drop off a stray animal at any time?

MHS is open for intake during their regular business hours (Noon to 6 PM on weekdays, 11 AM to 5 PM on Saturdays). However, it is highly recommended to contact Council Bluffs Animal Control first if you find a stray on the street, as they are equipped to handle transport and initial documentation.

Why is the shelter closed on the 3rd Wednesday of the month?

This dedicated time is used for staff training and meetings. It allows the team to improve their skills in animal behavior, medical care, and customer service without the interruptions of daily public operations, ultimately leading to better outcomes for the animals.

Does the shelter offer free puppies or kittens?

Typically, there are adoption fees associated with all animals to ensure the financial sustainability of the shelter and to cover the medical costs mentioned previously. "Free" animals are rare as the organization must recoup the costs of their high-standard care.

Where exactly is the shelter located?

The address is 1020 Railroad Ave, Suite A, Council Bluffs, IA 51503. It is located in an accessible area with ample parking for visitors.

How can I report a lost cat or dog in Pottawattamie County?

You should visit Midlands Humane Society in person to look for your pet and file a formal report. You can also call them at 712-396-2270 to provide a description, but an in-person visit is the most effective way to identify your pet among the hundreds of animals in their care.