When it comes to pets in Chicago, whether you’re looking to adopt, surrender, or just learn more about responsible pet ownership, Chicago Animal Care and Control (CACC) plays a key role in the city’s animal welfare system. As the city’s official animal shelter, CACC works to protect animals and connect them with loving homes while also addressing concerns like stray populations and animal cruelty. So if you're a pet owner, a potential adopter, or just someone curious about how the city supports its furry residents, this is the place to start.

Chicago, a city known for its eclectic neighborhoods and stunning architecture, also has a growing community of pet lovers. With a population of nearly three million, the city sees a wide variety of pets entering the system each year, from lost dogs to abandoned kittens. Understanding how CACC operates and how you can get involved is more than just helpful—it’s a way to support the broader community and the animals that call Chicago home.

And if you're wondering how this fits into the bigger picture of life in Chicago, you're not alone. Many residents are looking for ways to contribute, whether by adopting, volunteering, or just spreading awareness about pet safety and shelter programs. This guide breaks down everything you need to know about Chicago Animal Care and Control, from adoption options to how to report animal concerns in your neighborhood.

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Table of Contents

• What Is Chicago Animal Care and Control?
• Services Offered by CACC
• How to Adopt From CACC
• What to Do if You Find a Lost Pet
• Reporting Animal Concerns in Chicago
• Volunteering and Supporting CACC
• FAQ About Chicago Animal Care and Control

What Is Chicago Animal Care and Control?

Chicago Animal Care and Control, or CACC, is the official animal shelter for the city of Chicago. It’s responsible for handling stray, lost, and surrendered animals across the city. CACC works closely with other local organizations and shelters, but it's the main point of contact for many residents when it comes to animal-related issues.

So what exactly does CACC do? Well, they manage the intake of animals, provide medical care, and help match pets with new families through their adoption programs. They also respond to reports of animal cruelty, handle bite cases, and make sure that animals in the city are treated humanely.

And while there are plenty of other shelters and rescue groups in Chicago, CACC stands out because it’s city-funded and city-run. That means they follow specific protocols and guidelines set by the city government. If you're ever in a situation where you need to report an animal issue or find a lost pet, CACC is the place to start.

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Services Offered by CACC

CACC offers a wide range of services to the public, from pet adoption to cruelty investigations. Here are some of the most common services they provide:

• Adoption programs: CACC regularly has adoptable pets available, including dogs, cats, and sometimes small animals like rabbits.
• Lost pet assistance: If you’ve lost a pet or found one, CACC can help reunite animals with their families.
• Animal cruelty reporting: Concerned about how an animal is being treated? CACC investigates cases of abuse and neglect.
• Animal bite management: CACC works with the Chicago Department of Public Health to handle reports of animal bites, especially dog bites.
• Animal transport: In some cases, CACC helps move animals between shelters or to rescue groups that can offer better care.

One thing to keep in mind is that CACC is not a no-kill shelter. That means they do sometimes have to make tough decisions about animals that are sick, aggressive, or otherwise unadoptable. But they work hard to find alternative solutions, like transferring animals to rescue groups or offering adoption support for those who are healthy and friendly.

Another big part of their work is public education. CACC runs outreach programs to teach people about responsible pet ownership, the importance of spaying and neutering, and how to report animal issues safely and effectively.

How to Adopt From CACC

Adopting a pet from CACC can be a great way to give an animal a second chance. The process is pretty straightforward, but it’s a good idea to know what to expect before you go in.

1. Visit the shelter: CACC has a main location at 2741 S. Western Ave. You can also check their website or social media for adoption events around the city.
2. Meet the animals: Spend some time with the pets available for adoption. Staff members can help match you with the right pet based on your lifestyle and preferences.
3. Fill out an application: You’ll need to provide some basic info like your ID, proof of address, and references if needed.
4. Pay the adoption fee: Fees vary but typically include spay/neuter, vaccinations, and microchipping.
5. Take your new pet home: Once approved, you can usually take your pet home the same day or within a few days.

Some people are surprised by how affordable adoption can be, especially when you consider all the services included. And if you’re not ready to adopt just yet, CACC also offers foster programs where you can care for an animal temporarily while they wait for a forever home.

What to Do if You Find a Lost Pet

If you find a lost dog or cat in Chicago, here’s what you should do:

• Check for identification: Look for a collar, tags, or a microchip that can help identify the owner.
• Contact CACC: You can bring the pet to the shelter or call them to report the found animal. They’ll check their database to see if anyone has reported a missing pet.
• Post online: Use local Facebook groups, Nextdoor, or Lost Pet Chicago to spread the word and help reunite the pet with its owner.
• Wait 48 hours: Sometimes owners are on their way to the shelter, so giving them time can make a difference.

If the pet doesn’t have any ID and no one comes to claim it, you might consider adopting it through CACC or helping it find a new home. Either way, you’re doing a good deed by stepping in when an animal needs help.

Reporting Animal Concerns in Chicago

If you see something that worries you—like an animal being left outside in extreme weather or a dog that seems aggressive—reporting it can make a real difference.

Here’s how to report animal concerns:

• Call 311: The city’s main service line handles animal-related complaints, including cruelty, neglect, and nuisance animals.
• Use the city website: You can file a report online through the official Chicago.gov portal.
• Provide details: Be specific about what you saw, where, and when. Photos or videos can help support your report.

CACC or another city department will follow up depending on the nature of the concern. Reporting responsibly helps protect both animals and the people around them.

Volunteering and Supporting CACC

If you love animals but aren’t ready to adopt, volunteering at CACC is a great way to help. They offer a variety of volunteer opportunities, from walking dogs to helping at adoption events.

Here are some ways to get involved:

• Walk and socialize pets: Spend time with animals to help keep them happy and healthy while they wait for adoption.
• Assist at adoption events: Help showcase animals to potential adopters at off-site events.
• Donate supplies or funds: CACC relies on donations to support their work. You can give money or drop off items like food, toys, and bedding.
• Foster animals: If you have space at home, fostering can give animals a break from the shelter and improve their chances of adoption.

Volunteering is a rewarding way to make a difference, and it’s also a great way to meet other animal lovers in the community. Plus, it gives you a chance to interact with animals without the long-term commitment of adoption.

FAQ About Chicago Animal Care and Control

How do I report a stray animal in Chicago?
You can call 311 or use the city’s online service portal to report a stray. CACC will respond and take the animal into their care if needed.

Can I surrender my pet to CACC?
Yes, CACC accepts owner surrenders by appointment only. You’ll need to contact them ahead of time to schedule a drop-off.

What should I do if my pet is missing?
Check CACC’s website and visit the shelter in person. You can also post on local pet groups and file a report with the city.

If you’ve got more questions, don’t hesitate to reach out to CACC directly. Their staff is there to help and can guide you through the process of reuniting with a lost pet, adopting a new one, or reporting concerns in your neighborhood.