Frequently Asked Questions about Adoption & Giving Up Your Pet
Do you ever have purebreds?
Do you have a wait list for specific breeds?
Where do your animals come from?
If I find a stray pet, can I bring them to your facility?
If you are in the City of Chicago, stray animals should be taken to Chicago Animal Care and Control (2741 S. Western Ave. Chicago, IL 60608). If you are unable to get the animal there, you may bring it to us at 510 N LaSalle Street. Our Field Services team will transport to CACC.
If you are not in the City of Chicago, contact your local animal control facility or the police department.
I surrendered an animal and have changed my mind, can I take my pet back?
If you have second thoughts, our counselors will talk to you about the reason you brought your animal to us and help you make an informed decision. Your pet may already have been adopted or transferred to another facility for adoption.
Is there a fee to surrender my pet?
We ask for a donation to help cover the costs of caring for your pet. All animals are vaccinated, micro-chipped, de-wormed, spayed or neutered, given a collar and tag, dogs are heartworm tested, cats are tested for FeLV, all are examined by a veterinarian. It can cost over $300 to prepare an animal for adoption.
Why do so many people give up their animals?
Most animals are surrendered because the owner’s circumstances change, not because there is anything wrong with their pet. People may find that they can no longer afford to keep their pet, they need to move and their new housing does not accept pets, or they no longer have the time to spend with their pet. Many of the pets brought to The Anti-Cruelty Society are healthy, behaviorally sound, and terrific companions for their new adopters.
Why don’t you have much information on the animals up for adoption?
We try to get as much information as possible on the animals coming to us. Some of our animals have been found as strays so no information is available and some owners are reluctant to reveal information. We provide adopters with all of the information we have.
Why should I pay to adopt when I can get an animal free?
Every adoption package at The Anti-Cruelty Society includes spaying/neutering, initial vaccinations, a veterinary examination, heartworm test for dogs and FeLV test for cats, microchip, collar and ID tag, 30 days of pet health insurance , and a leash or carrier. We also offer post-adoption services to address concerns and questions that may come up after a pet goes home. Adopting a pet is a tremendous value for the price.
A “free” pet is not really free. You will likely have to pay for a veterinary examination, vaccinations, sterilization surgery, microchip, and other supplies. Those costs add up quickly and you will end up paying much more for your “free” pet than the adoption fee.
My pet bit me last week and I want to give up my pet. What do I do?
Animals that have bitten and broken skin within a 10 day period prior to relinquishment must be referred to The Chicago Animal Care and Control (2741 S. Western Ave. Chicago, IL 60608) facility in compliance with city ordinances. All bites should be reported to either Chicago Animal Care and Control or your local police.
Why do you have variable adoption fees based on age?
We review our adoption fees on a yearly basis. Adoption fees for adult animals are lower than those for puppies and kittens to encourage people to consider adopting these great pets which are more likely to stay with us for longer periods of time.
My pet is suffering and I think euthanasia may be an option. Can you help?
We can assist you with the difficult decision to euthanize your pet; and you may elect to be present during the procedure. Our method using injectable sodium pentobarbital is the standard in humane practice and is performed by certified and licensed staff. No appointment is required but calling in advance is advised.
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