Chicagoland Animal Welfare Crisis

The Chicagoland area is home to a vibrant network of animal rescues and shelters, but right now, it’s a community in need of help. Our shelters and rescue organizations are facing an overwhelming surge in owner surrenders and a constant influx of homeless pets. As a result, shelters are stretched thin, and they need the community’s help now more than ever. Let’s discuss the current Chicagoland Animal Welfare Crisis and how you can help!

Problem: A Growing Crisis of Owner Surrenders

Every day, Chicago Animal Care & Control receives about 56 new animals, many of them surrendered by their owners. The reasons for surrender range from behavioral issues to financial hardship, but the result is the same: shelters are inundated with animals needing care, love, and new homes. This high volume puts immense pressure on shelter resources, staff, and volunteers, making it harder for each animal to receive the attention and medical care they deserve.

Solution: Pet Adoption

Adopting from a shelter or rescue saves lives. When you choose to adopt, you’re not just giving a homeless animal a second chance, you’re also making room for another animal in need.

Shelters are filled with wonderful pets of all ages, breeds, and personalities, many of whom are already house-trained and ready for family life.

Solution: Proper Planning

When choosing to acquire a pet, it’s crucial to remember that pets are not gifts or impulse purchases. Animals are lifelong commitments, not holiday surprises or birthday presents. Too often, pets given as gifts end up back in shelters when the novelty wears off or when recipients are unprepared for the responsibilities that come with them.

Instead of winging it, do your research, meet lots of pets, and choose a pet that best suits your lifestyle. From cats and dogs to pocket pets and exotics, shelters and rescues are happy to discuss the benefits and needs of each pet species. Once you’ve chosen a species, let the rescue or shelter know about your time commitments, lifestyle, family structure, and other important details. Be honest about your limitations and your likes and dislkes. Then, the organization can better find you a match.

Solution: Volunteer & Donate

There are numerous ways for residents to support local shelters and rescues, including volunteering and making donations to the cause.

Shelters like West Suburban Humane Society in Downers Grove and Hinsdale Humane Society in Hinsdale rely heavily on volunteers for walking dogs, socializing cats, helping at events, and more. Monetary donations, sponsorships, and even in-kind gifts such as food, toys, and bedding help shelters continue their lifesaving work.

While you’re at it, spread the word and use social media to share adoptable animals and promote shelter events. The more people know, the more animals find homes!

The Best for Chicago Dogs & Cats

At Floofins and Co., we care for your floofins when you can’t! If you are new to Floofins & Co. and interested in our dog walking, pet sitting, dog training, or pet photography services, please fill out our contact form. Once received, we will be in touch to further discuss your interest. Please give us a call at 630-478-8915 or drop us a line at info@floofinsandco.com.

Learn more about our in-home pet care new client onboarding process here. If you are an existing client, please schedule services here. We are happy to discuss our services from Monday through Friday, 8:30 AM to 5 PM.

Floofins & Co. proudly serves the following areas of Chicagoland:

Brookfield, Burr Ridge, Clarendon Hills, Darien, Downers Grove, Elmhurst, Glen Ellyn, Hinsdale, Indian Head Park, La Grange, La Grange Park, Lisle, Lombard, Oak Brook, Oakbrook Terrace, Villa Park, Westchester, Western Springs, Westmont, Willowbrook, Wheaton, and Woodridge, IL.