Livingston County Animal Shelter: Adoption Hours, Fees & Lost Pets 2026

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2026 Howell MI shelter action guide

Livingston County Animal Shelter & Control: Adoption Hours 2026

Livingston County Animal Shelter in Howell, Michigan helps residents with dog and cat adoption, animal viewing, lost and found pets, stray animal intake, owner redemption, dog licensing, surrender calls, fostering, volunteering and non-emergency animal complaints.

If you are searching for Livingston County Animal Shelter hours, adoptable dogs and cats, adoption fees, lost pet help, reclaim costs, dog license rules, surrender requirements, animal control phone numbers or the official Howell shelter address, this 2026 guide gives you the practical details before you visit. Use it to plan around animal viewing hours at 418 S. Highlander Way, call the right number, understand application rules, check stray-hold timing, prepare ownership proof, avoid lunch-closure mistakes and know when to use the official county pages for final live confirmation.

418 S. Highlander Way Howell, Michigan Animal viewing hours Lost & found reports Dog licensing
Official Shelter Page Adoptable Pets Call Shelter
1
Check pets firstCall before driving for one specific animal.
2
Use viewing hoursWeekday lunch closure matters.
3
Bring proofID, vet records, photos, license or microchip details.
4
Verify official rulesFees, availability and holidays can change.
Important: Livingston County Animal Shelter and Livingston County Animal Control are related but not the same task path. Adoption, viewing, lost-pet reports, surrender calls and reclaim questions usually start with the shelter. Non-emergency animal complaints use the county complaint number. Immediate danger, serious bites or emergencies should use emergency services.

Livingston County Animal Shelter Quick Details

These are the key details people usually need before visiting the Howell shelter. Always confirm live hours, holidays, fees, pet availability and application rules with the official county source before making a long drive.

Official name Livingston County Animal Shelter.
Address 418 S. Highlander Way, Howell, MI 48843.
Shelter phone (517) 546-2154.
Non-emergency complaints (517) 546-9111.
Animal viewing hours Mon–Fri 11 AM–1 PM and 1:30 PM–5 PM; Saturday 11 AM–3 PM.
Office hours Mon–Fri 8 AM–1 PM and 1:30 PM–5 PM. Closed county holidays.
Best first step Check official adoptable pets, then call if visiting for one specific dog or cat.

What Livingston County Animal Shelter Does

Livingston County Animal Shelter provides humane care for animals and supports public health and safety by enforcing Michigan domestic-animal laws. The county says the shelter rescues and provides temporary shelter and veterinary care for approximately 2,200 stray, unwanted, abandoned, neglected and injured animals each year.

Most visitors come for one of five reasons: adopting a pet, searching for a missing pet, reporting a found animal, reclaiming an impounded pet or asking about surrender. Each task has different timing, proof and fees, so use the correct route below.

Adoption Visit, meet the animal, complete an application and wait for staff approval.
Lost or found pets Report online, check daily, visit in person and act before the stray hold ends.
Animal control support Use non-emergency complaint routing for animal-control issues, not adoption calls.

Livingston County Animal Viewing Hours and Office Hours

The most common mistake is treating office hours and animal viewing hours as the same thing. Animal viewing starts later than the office, and the county lists a weekday lunch closure from 1 PM to 1:30 PM.

Service Listed hours Visitor advice
Animal viewing Mon–Fri 11 AM–1 PM and 1:30 PM–5 PM; Saturday 11 AM–3 PM Use this for adoption browsing or checking animals in person. Do not arrive during the lunch closure.
Office Mon–Fri 8 AM–1 PM and 1:30 PM–5 PM Use this for calls, paperwork, license questions, surrender questions and administrative help.
Animal Control Mon–Fri 8 AM–5 PM on county animal-control information For non-emergency complaints, use the complaint number and give location, animal description and safety risk.
County holidays Closed county legal holidays Check official hours around holidays before planning an adoption, reclaim or surrender visit.
Verify Official Hours Call (517) 546-2154

Livingston County Animal Shelter Adoption Fees

The county adoptable-pets page lists separate adoption fee categories by pet type and age. Use this table for planning, then confirm the current amount with the shelter before payment because events, specials, policies and pet status can change.

Pet category Listed fee What to ask before adopting
Puppies under 6 months $200 Ask about age, expected size, vaccine schedule, spay/neuter timing and first-week care.
Dogs over 6 months $140 Ask about behavior notes, dog-to-dog meet, energy level, medical records and license requirements.
Small dogs, any age $175 Small dogs can move quickly; call before visiting for a specific one.
Kittens under 4 months $90 Ask about kitten health, vaccine timing, spay/neuter status and whether a second kitten is recommended.
Second kitten $45 Useful if kittens are bonded, siblings or better adopted together.
Cats over 4 months $80 Ask about personality, litterbox habits, other pets, children and adjustment needs.

What is included? The county adoption page says adopted animals are microchipped, dogs receive a Michigan dog license, medical history is provided, and animals are spayed/neutered with age-appropriate medical care before becoming available.

How Adoption Works at Livingston County Animal Shelter

Livingston County does not treat adoption like a phone checkout. You need to visit, spend time with the animal, confirm household fit, complete an adoption application and wait for staff approval. Applications may take up to 24 hours, though many are processed the same day.

1

Check adoptable pets first

Start with the official adoptable-pets page. Write down the pet name, type and any notes. Call before visiting if your trip depends on one specific animal because the shelter says pets are not held for adoption.

2

Visit and meet the pet in person

The county tells visitors to come to the shelter and spend time with the animal they are considering. Online photos are useful, but in-person behavior, energy and comfort level matter more.

3

Bring the right people and animals

All family members in the home must meet the pet before adoption. If you currently have another dog and want to adopt a second dog, bring your dog for a meet and greet. Pets already in the home must be spayed/neutered and current on vaccines.

4

Complete the adoption application

Once you are sure the animal fits your family and lifestyle, complete the application and review the adoption guidelines. The shelter reserves the right to deny an adoption at staff discretion.

5

Ask about return/trial rules

The shelter FAQ says there is a trial period: three business days to return a dog and 10 business days to return a cat for a refund if the pet does not fit. Refunds are mailed as a county refund check and can take several weeks.

Dog Adoption Notes for Howell and Livingston County Visitors

Dog adoption needs extra planning because current dogs in your home may need a meet-and-greet, all pets in the home must be current on vaccines, and unlicensed dogs may need licensing. Do not skip this planning if you rent, already own dogs or want a puppy or small dog that may attract fast interest.

Questions to ask staff “How does this dog behave outside the kennel? Has it met other dogs? Does it have fear, separation stress, leash issues, high energy, medical needs or a recommended home type?”
Dog-to-dog planning Bring your current dog only as instructed and prepare vaccine/licensing information. Do not assume a dog meet can be skipped.

Cat and Kitten Adoption Notes

For cats and kittens, ask about age, spay/neuter timing, litter habits, personality, health notes, other cats, dogs, children and whether a second kitten is recommended. Bring a secure carrier if you are adoption-ready.

Kittens Ask about vaccination timing, litterbox use, socialization, food routine and kitten-proofing.
Adult cats Ask whether the cat is shy, social, independent, playful, bonded or better for a quiet home.
Second kitten The shelter lists a second-kitten fee category, which may help adopters considering sibling or bonded kitten pairs.

Lost Pets and Found Animals in Livingston County

Livingston County says stray animals are held for four to seven days under Michigan law so owners can find and claim them. That means lost-pet action should be daily, not casual. Check official listings, post a report, search physically and visit the shelter if you think your pet may have been brought in.

If your pet is missing Post a lost report, check the county lost/found page daily and visit the shelter in person while the pet is missing.
If you found a pet Post the found pet, use a clear photo, search license/tag information if available and call the shelter for current instructions.
If the pet is at the shelter Bring proof of ownership, photo ID, microchip or vet records, and prepare for possible reclaim costs.

Lost pet proof checklist

  • Recent clear photos from multiple angles.
  • Photos showing unique markings, collar, size, scars or coat pattern.
  • Microchip number and current microchip registration information.
  • Veterinary records, rabies certificate, vaccination records or medication records.
  • Dog license number or adoption paperwork if available.
  • Your photo ID and current phone/email contact details.
  • Animal ID, intake number or listing screenshot if you find a possible match.
Official Lost & Found Help Search Lost & Found Reports

Owner Redemption, Board Fees, and Dog Licensing

Reclaiming a pet can cost more than people expect. Livingston County’s fines and fees page says owners are responsible for costs such as rabies vaccine, licenses, impound fees and boarding. It also says a valid dog license is needed for a dog to be released.

Fee or requirement Listed amount / rule What it means before reclaim
Dog boarding $20 per night Costs can build quickly if the dog stays over multiple nights.
Cat boarding $10 per night Bring proof early and call before visiting to avoid delays.
Dog license $10 if fixed, $25 if not fixed Dogs need valid licensing; rabies proof matters.
Rabies vaccine $15 if proof cannot be provided Bring current rabies certificate if you have it.
Animal Control pickup $35 may apply Ask staff what applies to your specific case.
Official Fines & Fees Dog License Info

Owner Surrender at Livingston County Animal Shelter

The county surrender page says there is no fee to surrender a dog or cat, but you must be a county resident, have a driver’s license with a county address, be 18 or older and call the shelter first. The page also warns that the shelter can be full at certain times of year.

Do not arrive with a pet without calling first. Surrender is not the same as adoption viewing. Space, eligibility, residency proof and timing matter.
✓Call (517) 546-2154 before planning a surrender.
✓Confirm you are a Livingston County resident and have ID with county address.
✓Prepare medical, vaccine, behavior, bite, diet, medication and routine information honestly.
✓Ask about rescue alternatives if the shelter is full.
✓Ask about pet food, low-cost care, behavior support or temporary options before making a final decision.
Official Surrender Page Call Shelter First

Animal Control and Non-Emergency Complaints

Livingston County Animal Control handles public-safety and animal-law concerns, while the shelter handles adoption, animal viewing, lost/found help and many owner-facing shelter questions. For non-emergency complaints, the county lists (517) 546-9111.

Use shelter phone for Adoption, animal viewing, reclaim questions, lost/found help, surrender questions and shelter paperwork.
Use complaint number for Non-emergency animal complaints, animal-control routing and public-safety concerns that are not immediate emergencies.
Use emergency help for Active attack, serious bite, immediate danger, traffic hazard or urgent safety risk.

Foster, Volunteer, Donate, and Support the Shelter

Livingston County Animal Shelter asks for foster help, volunteers and community support. Foster homes can help young or special-needs pets. Volunteers can support shelter work and adoption outcomes. Donations and rescue partnerships can also help when the shelter is busy.

Foster Best for people who can temporarily help young, special-needs or overflow animals.
Volunteer Best for people who want ongoing shelter support and can follow shelter training rules.
Donate Best for people who cannot adopt but want to support animals with supplies or funding.
Foster Program Volunteer Page

Before You Visit the Howell Shelter

A strong shelter visit starts before you leave home. This matters whether you are adopting, reclaiming a pet, looking for a lost animal or asking about surrender.

For adoption Bring photo ID, payment method, pet listing notes, household members, current dog if required, vaccine/license details for current pets, renter approval and a safe transport plan.
For reclaim Bring photo ID, proof of ownership, microchip details, vet/rabies records, dog license info, listing screenshot and payment method for possible fees.
✓Confirm the animal is still available before driving for one specific pet.
✓Plan around the 1 PM to 1:30 PM weekday lunch closure.
✓Bring your current dog if a dog-to-dog meet is required.
✓Bring vaccine and license details for pets already in your home.
✓Ask about spay/neuter, microchip, medical history and take-home timing.
✓Verify county holiday closures before a Saturday or holiday-adjacent trip.

Common Mistakes Livingston County Visitors Should Avoid

Arriving during lunch closure The county lists a 1 PM to 1:30 PM weekday closure. Plan around it.
Assuming a pet is held The shelter says pets are not held for adoption. Call first if you want one specific animal.
Trying to adopt by phone The shelter FAQ says you must come into the shelter to adopt a pet.
Forgetting current-dog rules If adopting a second dog, your dog may need to meet the potential new dog at the shelter.
Waiting on a lost pet Strays are held four to seven days, so daily checks matter.
Skipping license proof Dog license and rabies proof can affect reclaim and release steps.

Mini Livingston County Shelter Action Planner

This lightweight planner does not search live shelter records. It gives you the next steps, documents and official source route based on your situation.

Start with your situation.

Choose a goal above and this box will create a practical next-step plan.

Source Verification and Accuracy Note

This page is an independent visitor guide and is not the official Livingston County government website. It is designed to help you understand the shelter process before you call, visit, adopt, reclaim a pet, surrender a pet or report an animal issue.

Official sources checked for this guide include Livingston County Animal Shelter, Adoptable Pets, Lost & Found Animals, Surrendering a Pet, Fines & Fees, Dog Licenses and Animal Control pages. Always confirm current hours, fees, pet availability, adoption approval rules, holiday closures and emergency instructions directly with Livingston County.

Map to Livingston County Animal Shelter

Livingston County Animal Shelter is listed at 418 S. Highlander Way, Howell, MI 48843. Use this map for route planning only. If your trip depends on one specific pet, a lost-pet match, a surrender question or a reclaim release, call before driving.

Map is for directions only. Current hours, fees, pet availability and rules should be verified on official Livingston County pages.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is Livingston County Animal Shelter located?

Livingston County Animal Shelter is located at 418 S. Highlander Way, Howell, MI 48843.

What is the phone number for Livingston County Animal Shelter?

The shelter phone number is (517) 546-2154. For non-emergency complaints, Livingston County lists (517) 546-9111.

What are Livingston County Animal Shelter viewing hours?

Animal viewing hours are listed as Monday through Friday from 11 AM to 1 PM and 1:30 PM to 5 PM, and Saturday from 11 AM to 3 PM. The shelter is closed county holidays.

How much does it cost to adopt a dog from Livingston County Animal Shelter?

The official adoption page lists puppies under 6 months at $200, dogs over 6 months at $140 and small dogs of any age at $175. Verify current fees before payment.

How much does it cost to adopt a cat from Livingston County Animal Shelter?

The official adoption page lists kittens under 4 months at $90, a second kitten at $45 and cats over 4 months at $80. Verify current fees before adoption.

Can I adopt a pet over the phone?

No. The shelter FAQ says you must come into the shelter to adopt a pet. Call first if you are coming for one specific animal.

Does Livingston County Animal Shelter hold pets for adoption?

The shelter says it does not hold pets for adoption. Adoptions are based on the first approved application, not simply first come, first served.

What should I bring to reclaim a lost pet?

Bring photo ID, clear photos, vet records, microchip information, dog license details, rabies certificate, animal ID or listing screenshot and payment method for possible fees.

Can I surrender a pet to Livingston County Animal Shelter?

The county surrender page says there is no fee to surrender a dog or cat, but you must be a county resident, have a driver’s license with a county address, be 18 or older and call the shelter first.

Is Animal-Shelter.org the official Livingston County Animal Shelter website?

No. Animal-Shelter.org is an independent guide. Use milivcounty.gov and official county pages for live hours, fees, policies and animal availability.

Final Takeaway

Livingston County Animal Shelter in Howell is the key county resource for dog and cat adoption, animal viewing, lost/found pet reports, owner redemption, dog licensing, surrender calls and non-emergency animal-control routing. Before visiting, remember the 418 S. Highlander Way address, (517) 546-2154 shelter phone, 11 AM animal viewing start time, weekday lunch closure, Saturday 11 AM–3 PM viewing window and the need to call before driving for one specific animal.

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USA-wide shelter helper • adoption, lost pets, found pets, surrender and animal control

Animal Shelter Action Planner: Lost Pet, Found Pet, Adoption, Reclaim & Surrender Helper

Use this free tool to create a practical next-step plan before visiting or contacting an animal shelter, humane society, rescue, or animal control agency. It does not search a live shelter database, but it helps you prepare the right documents, questions, safety steps, and official-source searches.

Lost Pet PlanSearch, microchip, shelter checks, flyers
Found Pet HelpSafety, scanning, reporting, holding
Adoption PlannerReadiness, questions, supplies, budget
Visit ChecklistDocuments, call script, official links

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Important: Shelter rules vary by city, county, agency, and animal type. Always confirm hours, intake rules, fees, appointment requirements, and proof-of-ownership rules with the official shelter or animal control agency before visiting.

Lost pet recovery checklist

Check the steps you have completed. This helps you stay organized during the first urgent hours and days.

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Found pet safety decision helper

Use this when you find a stray or loose pet and need a safe next step.

Safety first: Do not approach an aggressive, injured, trapped, or traffic-endangered animal if doing so could put you or others at risk. Contact animal control, emergency services, or a qualified professional when needed.

Adoption readiness checker

This helps adopters prepare before visiting a shelter or rescue. It is not a guarantee of approval.

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Pet reclaim document checklist

If your pet may be at a shelter, prepare proof before visiting. Exact requirements and fees vary by agency.

Owner surrender preparation helper

Surrender rules vary. Many shelters require appointments, proof of residence, behavior/medical information, and may offer alternatives.

Helpful reminder: Ask the shelter about pet food pantries, low-cost vet care, behavior support, temporary foster options, and safe rehoming resources before making a final decision.

Animal control contact decision helper

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Emergency warning: If there is immediate danger to a person, a serious bite, traffic hazard, or active attack, contact local emergency services or animal control according to local rules.

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This is a planning guide, not a shelter fee database. Always confirm adoption fees and included services with the shelter.

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Privacy note: this tool runs in your browser. It does not send your entries to animal-shelter.org.

Independent shelter-help tool. Not affiliated with any animal shelter, humane society, rescue, animal control agency, city, county, state agency, veterinarian, or microchip company. Always confirm current rules, hours, fees, and requirements directly with the official organization.