First and foremost, we are looking for permanent, responsible homes for these animals. Thousands of animals die each year because irresponsible owners neglect them, let them breed or just decide they no longer want them. Please consider the time and money required to own a pet. It's a lifetime commitment and nothing less is can be acceptable.

There is a mandatory 24-hour waiting period before a pet can go to a new home. After you decide on the pet you wish to adopt, you must complete our adoption application available at the front desk.

You must be 21 years of age or older to adopt an animal.

All animals leaving the shelter will be spayed or neutered in accordance with Illinois State Law.

Animals must be taken to a veterinarian for a health exam within three days after leaving the shelter.

If you rent or lease your house or apartment, we require written or verbal approval from your landlord before you adopt a pet. We will not adopt an animal to a person or family who is either in the process of moving or is planning to move within a month after adoption.

Animals are placed as pets or companions only. We do not place cats as barn cats or mousers and dogs are not placed as strictly guard or protective animals.

No animal will be adopted that will be kept strictly outside.

We do not adopt animals as gifts or presents.

If you are interest in a large dog (over 40 pounds), we suggest a fenced-in yard where the animal cannot get off your property. It is the law in Champaign-Urbana and in most outlying townships that your dog must be confined on a leash at all times.

We do not suggest young puppies or kittens for a family with very young children or in a situation where all family members are gone for long periods each day.

If, at any time, you can no longer care for your pet, you are required to return the pet to the CCHS shelter or the closest humane society.

The CCHS reserves the right to refuse any adoption.