Heartland Pet Connection in Hastings, Nebraska is primarily an animal shelter and adoption center rather than a fish or aquarium store. The facility focuses on rehoming dogs and cats, offering adoption services that include spay/neuter procedures, microchipping, flea treatment with Revolution, and up-to-date vaccinations — all bundled into an adoption fee of approximately $120-$160. Reviewers consistently highlight the thorough meet-and-greet process, where prospective adopters can interact with animals in a dedicated playroom, and staff take time to ensure compatibility between new pets and existing household members, including other animals and children.
One adopter described doing numerous meet-and-greets with a dog named Kenzo before finding the right fit for her family, praising the staff's patience throughout the process. Another couple shared how the shelter housed a kitten they found for a full month until they were ready to adopt, maintaining communication throughout. The cat adoption experience draws particular praise, with visitors noting the opportunity to vet multiple cats in the playroom before making a decision.
However, the facility itself receives mixed feedback — multiple reviewers note that the dog housing area lacks air conditioning, relying on large fans to circulate air, and that space for animals is limited. Staff interactions are polarizing: some find the team friendly and caring, while others describe encounters as unwelcoming or lacking customer service warmth. The shelter's strict adoption protocols, while designed to protect animals, have frustrated some visitors who felt the process was unnecessarily difficult.
Note: Despite being categorized as a pet store, Heartland Pet Connection does not appear to sell fish, aquarium supplies, or related equipment based on available reviews. It functions as a community animal shelter serving the Hastings area.
Brooklyn Duncan
Took my two small dogs there bc I wasn’t aloud to have them anymore, they were 16 and 9 years old, it’s costed me $200 and to keep them together. Staff was very rude as I was on the verge of tears leaving my dogs. Never seen or heard of them again. Don’t surrender animals here
Gena Hess
41 reviews
The Saturday we went, staff was very busy with holiday pet picture appointments, but still took the time to help us with choosing our kitty! We "vetted" numerous cats until we knew for sure we'd found the one for us. We had the chance to interact in the playroom with each one we thought we were interested in! You can tell the love they have for the animals in their care. We finally chose a 2 year old silvery tabby and he's doing well!
Eric Petersen
57 reviews
Friendly staff.
Robert Tinsley
11 reviews
Nice people
Krynna Sterns
5 reviews
When my boyfriend and I found a kitten in our truck and we couldn't take him then, they took care of him. For a month they housed him before we could adopt him. They were so kind, they communicated with us, and worked very well with my deaf cat during the meet-and-greet. They microchip all their animals and spay/neuter them. Little guy did come home with ear mites but it was easy to treat. I highly recommend adopting from them! They have so many adorable cats that need homes! Thank you to those at HPC for reuniting us with the kitten we found!
John Kinkennon
4 reviews
First rate operation.
krazi77
68 reviews
they don't want people to have pets
DC Gilbert
11 reviews
I adopted a dog and a cat from the shelter they take very good care of the pets that I brought there and they have a lot of dogs and cats that need rescued I would highly recommend the place it's clean and it's nice.
JTWO WELL
23 reviews
Asked if certain pet have on Sunday & Monday. Told yes. Called Monday afternoon to meet & no pet asked about. This is a place outright lied to me. Never look here again for pet. Lost my business. Pet was also listed available even Monday. Don't donate to this place or look for pet.
Megan Rishell
6 reviews
I lost my beautiful pit bull/ blue heeler last year in September. Did numerous meet and greets with Kenzo , the staff was so patience and understanding about making sure he was right fit for me and my 3 year old daughter. I’m so blessed to have an amazing dog and a healthy dog! Worth adopting at Heartland Pet Connection.
Note: Store information and services may change. Always call (402) 462-7387 to confirm current availability, hours, and services before visiting Heartland Pet Connection.
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1807 W J St, Hastings, NE 68901
February 7, 2026
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