About Panhandle Humane Society
Serving western Nebraska from Scottsbluff, we are dedicated to giving every animal a second chance at a happy life.
Our Mission
The Panhandle Humane Society is committed to promoting the humane treatment of animals through education, advocacy, and direct care. We strive to find loving homes for every animal that comes through our doors while providing compassionate shelter, medical care, and rehabilitation services.
The Five Freedoms
Our care philosophy is built on the internationally recognized Five Freedoms of animal welfare.
Freedom from Hunger and Thirst
Access to fresh water and a diet to maintain full health and vigor.
Freedom from Discomfort
An appropriate environment including shelter and a comfortable resting area.
Freedom from Pain, Injury, or Disease
Prevention or rapid diagnosis and treatment of health issues.
Freedom to Express Normal Behavior
Sufficient space, proper facilities, and company of the animal's own kind.
Freedom from Fear and Distress
Conditions and treatment that avoid mental suffering.
Fear Free Shelter
PHS is proud to operate as a Fear Free certified shelter. This means we prioritize reducing fear, anxiety, and stress in every animal we care for. From the moment an animal arrives, our trained staff uses gentle handling techniques, calming environments, and enrichment activities to ensure their emotional well-being alongside their physical health.
Our Fear Free approach extends to our adoption process, ensuring that the transition to a new home is as smooth and stress-free as possible for both the animal and the adopter.
What We Are
Panhandle Humane Society is a private, non-profit animal shelter serving the western Nebraska panhandle. We are not a government agency -- we rely on the generosity of our community through donations, grants, and volunteer support to continue our work.
- Full-service animal shelter with adoption, foster, and surrender programs
- Low-cost spay/neuter clinic open to the community
- Lost and found animal assistance
- Community education and humane outreach programs
Our History
Founded by dedicated community members who saw a need for compassionate animal care in the Nebraska panhandle, PHS has grown from a small volunteer group into a full-service shelter. Over the years, we have helped thousands of animals find their forever homes and continue to expand our programs and services to meet the growing needs of our community.
Today, PHS operates out of our facility in Scottsbluff, staffed by a team of passionate employees and supported by dozens of dedicated volunteers who share our vision of a community where every animal is treated with dignity and compassion.