The Best Iron River, MI Dog Rescues & Shelters in 2026

Northwoods Animal Shelter

The Northwoods Animal Shelter, a non-profit corporation supported by and committed to the community of Iron County, Michigan, shall operate and maintain an Animal Shelter Complex which offers a safe refuge where basic needs are met and limited medical care is provided for surrendered, stray and neglected animals. As part of our ongoing commitment to humane animal treatment, we shall promote community awareness regarding responsible pet ownership in a courteous, professional, and compassionate manner. Northwoods Animal Shelter 501(C)(3) It all began in August of 2001, when a small group of concerned citizens became informed of the lack of proper care and compassion for the local animal shelter residents. For many years the Iron County Sheriffs Department ran the old animal shelter, located in the former Homer School. Although the sheriffs department owns the building and its officers are still responsible for handling complaints regarding stray animals, the animal shelter volunteers are now allowed to assist in the caring of the animals at the Northwoods Animal Shelter at 930 Selden Road. To improve the animals' living quarters, volunteers did much cleaning, painting, added kennels for both dogs and cats and created a large outdoor dog run. Besides daily cleaning, the volunteers exercise and groom the animals, and provide medical care and affection as well. They monitor adoption of the animals so that they are put into responsible homes. Volunteers actively participate in fundraisers with the goal of raising enough money to build a new animal shelter. There is now a very enthusiastic and hard working group of volunteers at the Northwoods Animal Shelter who are united in their love and concern for the animals and welcome your support. We are currently accepting application for more volunteers, as we have big goals for this year! Shelter volunteers have also taken some obedience training with a local trainer. It has helped us in the handling for our many lost and homeless animals. On behalf of all the dogs and cats at the Northwoods Animal Shelter, the Volunteers would like to thank all the people who have rescued stray animals, spayed or neutered their pets, adopted shelter animals, participated in fundraising events, or donated time, money, and other useful items to help us care for homeless and neglected animals in our area. Every bit of assistance is appreciated!