The surrendering of your feline or canine companion can be a very difficult. If you can no longer care for your pet, it’s important that you research and understand your options – your pet’s life depends on it.

In 2009, 18,475 cats and dogs were euthanized in Chicago alone. With time, effort, planning and resourcefulness you can ensure that your loyal companion has a chance at life and does not become part of this statistic.

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.

No Kill shelters

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.

Research your options

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 impound facility—depending on the individual organization’s policy—your pet may be euthanized. Read more about surrendering to animal shelters.