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Starting October 21, 2025, the Dubuque Regional Humane Society will be updating our visiting hours to better serve both our animals and YOU - our amazing community. As of this date, our shelter will move to a hybrid model of Walk-In Hours and By Appointment Only services.

 

New Hours: 

  • Monday: remaining closed to the public

  • Tuesday: 11am - 2pm walk-in hours, 2pm - 5pm appointment only

  • Wednesday: 11am - 2pm walk-in hours, 2pm - 5pm appointment only

  • Thursday: 11am - 2pm appointment only, 2pm - 5pm walk-in hours

  • Friday: 11am - 4pm appointment only, 4pm - 7pm walk-in hours

  • Saturday: 11am - 5pm walk-in hours

  • Sunday: 1pm - 4pm appointment only

 

We're currently trialing these new hours, and we kindly ask for your patience and support as we adjust and fine-tune what works best for everyone. This transition period will help us gather feedback, observe what's working well, and make changes if needed - always with the best interests of the animals and community in mind. Visitors will be directed to book appointments via our website (link to come) or by calling and making an appointment with the front desk.

 

Why the change? This adjustment is based on ongoing feedback and industry best practices. Our new hours will help us:

  • Minimize overstimulation and stress for animals

  • Offer a more personalized experience for adopters and guests

  • Provide time for staff to focus on enrichment, training, and care

  • Ensure quality, one-on-one interactions during appointments

We believe this will lead to better matches, less stress, and a healthier shelter environment.

 

Appointment-Only Services (available same day):

The following services will now require an appointment to ensure we can assist you efficiently and compassionately:

  • Bringing in stray animals

  • Reclaiming a lost pet (return to owner)

  • Adoptions

  • Accessing our Pet Pantry for food or supplies

 

Pet surrenders will continue to require pre-approval before an appointment is scheduled. Staff will follow the existing process for intake assessment and scheduling. This helps us manage space, resources, and ensure we're prepared to care for every animal properly. To start the process, please go to our rehoming service page on our website at dbqhumane.org/rehome 

 

Thank you for helping us create a calmer, happier environment for the animals as they wait for their forever homes! 

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