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If you are having problems with your pet, there are many solutions. PAWS Chicago
has lots of resources on our website for you to review that will help you keep
your pet, and we are here to help you solve your problems.
If you foresee yourself in a situation where you can no longer keep your dog or
cat, the most important thing to do is plan ahead. It could be the difference
between life and death for your companion.
If you need to give up your pet, you are not alone. Thousands of people do so
each year, which is why the shelter system is overwhelmed with so many homeless
cats and dogs. PAWS Chicago strongly recommends that you begin making
plans for your pet as soon as you know that you can no longer keep him or her.
Unfortunately, if you care about your pet’s life, there are no instant
solutions. It is important to recognize that unless a shelter specifically calls
itself “No Kill”, surrendering your pet may be a fatal decision for your cat or
dog.
 As a No Kill shelter, PAWS Chicago will not kill dogs or cats in the program to
make room for more. By managing admissions, PAWS Chicago is committed to finding
a home for every single animal admitted. PAWS Chicago prioritizes animals in
desperate need. As a result, there can be a waiting list.
By planning ahead, you are part of the solution by giving your local No Kill
shelter enough time to make room for your pet. And you can help even more by
re-homing your pet yourself and keeping your pet from entering a shelter in the
first place.
Before relinquishing your pet to an animal shelter, explore the resources and
alternatives available to you and read the information on this website
carefully.
If you want to help your pet’s chances of finding a new home:
- Make sure your animal is in good health, current on vaccines, and
spayed/neutered. If you are unable to afford standard veterinary
services, keep in mind that there are low-cost veterinary clinics, including
the PAWS Chicago’s Lurie Family Spay/Neuter Clinic.
- Explore your personal network to see if anyone would be interested in
adopting your pet. This can include work, neighbors, friends, social or
church groups, your vet’s office, or local businesses. Make sure your follow
up on any opportunities! This is the least stressful way to place your pet.
- Educate yourself on the different types of animal shelters & their
policies. Don’t be afraid to ask questions! Each organization has their
own euthanasia policy and definition of adoptable animals. Please be aware
that when you simply drop your pet off at a shelter, humane society, or city
impoundment facility—depending on the individual organization’s policy—your
pet may be euthanized. Click here to read more:
Surrendering to Animal
Shelters: Do Your Homework First.
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