Why Adopt?

• SAVE A LIFE: Thousands of pets throughout the State of Illinois are without a loving home and in danger of being euthanized. It is a common misconception that animals end up in shelters because they’ve been abused. In fact, most animals are given to shelters because of "people reasons," like a move or financial constraints. Additionally, when you adopt a rescue pet, you’re not only saving that pet’s life, but you’re making room for another animal in need.
• HEALTHY PETS: Most shelters examine and give vaccinations to animals when they arrive, and many spay or neuter them before adoption. In addition, some shelters screen animals for specific behaviors to make sure each family finds the right pet for its lifestyle and some pets have been through training already.
• FISCALLY SMART: Pet overpopulation leads to additional animal control costs for taxpayers at the state and local level. In many cases, adopting a pet from an animal shelter is less expensive than buying a pet through another source. As mentioned above, shelter animals usually come fully vaccinated, spayed or neutered and microchipped, which saves YOU money. And, if you have your heart set on a purebred animal, you may be able to find one at a local shelter or through a breed-specific rescue group. You’ll be saving a life and the potentially thousands of dollars you would be paying to a breeder.
• IMPROVING YOUR OWN LIFE: Pets can be a best friend, a shoulder to cry on and a confidant that won’t share your secrets. Often, pet owners find they are more social and active after they adopt an animal.

Getting Started

A directory of participating shelters along with contact information is available below. Search by county, view the map, or scroll through the list to find a shelter near you. Once you find a shelter, visit their site to view all the animals they have for adoption or plan to visit the shelter in person.

And don’t forget to mention Comptroller Mendoza sent you!

When choosing a pet, consider your lifestyle and the traits of the animal you are considering if known. Will you be able to provide plenty of exercise for a high energy pet, or do you want a couch potato to snuggle with and watch TV? Do you have a fenced-in backyard? Ask shelter staff if the pet is good with children and other animals if applicable. If you have another pet, check with shelter staff about bringing your current pet in to see if it gets along with the animal you are thinking about adopting.

Bringing Your New Pet Home

For starters, be prepared with a leash and collar, food, crate, a few toys, a bed, etc. Pet-proof your home which can include tying up any loose electrical cords and others dangerous things your little friend can gnaw on. Make sure household chemicals, poisonous plants and breakables are well out of reach and set up baby gates if necessary.

Ask the shelter what type of food the animal has been eating, and if you’re switching to another brand, ease your pet into their new meal by giving them half of their old food and half new food for a few days.

When you get home with the animal, take them potty right away and let them explore the outside while on a leash. Taking them for a short walk is also a good idea.

Once inside and for the next few days, make sure to maintain a calm atmosphere so your pet feels safe and comfortable.

If you have other pets, consider keeping them away from your new friend the first day or two. Your new pet is already having to adjust to an unfamiliar home and adding another animal into the mix right away can sometimes be too much.

And most of all...be patient. It may take time for your new pet to acclimate to your family and home. They may have accidents at first or be shy. Let them settle in and get used to their new home; be consistent with commands, potty time and feeding times.

Care Tips

Comptroller’s Critters Dog Care Tips:

Meals:

• Puppies (8-12 weeks old) - Four meals a day
• Up to six months - Three meals a day
• Up to one year - Two meals a day
• Over one year - One meal a day. Large dogs or those prone to bloat should have two smaller meals a day. Clean water should always be available. Food and water dishes should be washed frequently.

Grooming:

Brush frequently to reduce shedding. Warm weather requires daily checks for fleas and ticks. Bathe the dog a few times a year, thoroughly rinsing soap out from its coat to prevent dirt from sticking to soap residue.

Exercise:

Daily exercise stimulates mental and physical well-being. Breed type, age and health status will determine the proper amount of exercise for your dog. Walks in different environments are great to keep your pet (and you!) healthy and mentally stimulated.

Consider Training Classes:

Dog training classes are beneficial for both you and your dog. Not only can you and your dog learn new skills to help behavior, training can reduce anxiety while your pet adjusts to new surroundings. It can strengthen the bond between you and your new friend and may include more than “sit” and “stay.” You may find your dog has a knack for agility, obedience or tracking and choose to enter competitions together. This is a great way to bond and meet new people.

Comptroller’s Critters Cat Care Tips:

Meals:

• Kittens (6-12 weeks) – Four meals a day
• Up to six months – Three meals a day
• Over six months – One large or two smaller meals a day. Clean water should always be available. Food and water dishes should be washed frequently.

Grooming:

Brush frequently to keep your cat’s coat clean, reduce shedding and decrease the occurrence of hairballs.

Sleeping:

Cats typically sleep about 16 hours a day and like to perch in high places. Cat beds, cat trees, baskets and pillows can give your new cat a safe, secure spot to call their own.

Exercise:

Cats enjoy toys that jump and/or dance around, providing a life-like appearance. Their predator instincts make this play time an enjoyable exercise. Aim for at least 15-30 minutes of cuddle and playtime with your kitty twice a day.

LICENSES & VACCINATIONS (For both dogs and cats):

Check with local governing authorities and abide by licensing and rabies regulations. Make sure to ask the shelter if the animal has been spayed or neutered, and what kind of vaccinations they received. The animal should have subsequent annual visits to a veterinarian to receive exams and shots. Vets can also provide advice for settling your pet into their new home.