For those interested in adopting a pet, you may fill out an online Adoption Application ahead of time or wait until you come to the shelter. Submitting an application online will save some time during your visit to the shelter, but submitting an application online does not place a "hold" on an animal, nor is it a guarantee of adoption. You must be at least 18 years of age to adopt from CCHS.
Adoption applications do not become active until you have come to the shelter (during open hours) to meet with the animal(s) you're interested in and speak with an adoption staff member. CCHS will not contact you after you've submitted an online application. It is not likely that you will be able to take an animal home on the same day you apply to adopt. CCHS accepts up to three applications per pet and priority for adoption is given to the first family to submit an application. Please bring a valid photo ID with you for your visit to the shelter.
Our Adoption hours are:
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Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday: 2:00 - 7:00 PM
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Saturday & Sunday: 12:00 - 5:00 PM
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CLOSED: Tuesday and major holidays (see the CCHS calendar for closed dates)
Our Adoption process:
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Review our Adoptable Pets page on the CCHS website. The Adoptable Pets page is updated in real time and is the most accurate source for viewing our adoptable pets besides physically coming into the shelter. If you are interested in a specific pet, we recommend calling CCHS at 217-344-7297 ext. 10 before coming in to see if they have applications already on file.
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Complete an online adoption application below, or when you arrive at our facility. Please submit only ONE application, even if you are interested in more than one animal.
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Come in to CCHS during open hours to view the adoptable pets. If there is a pet you wish to visit with, let an adoption staff member at the front desk know. We will give you detailed background, medical, and behavioral information on the pet prior to your visit with them and let you know if they have any existing applications already on file.
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Once you have met with the pet you wish to adopt, inform the adoption staff. We will then make your online adoption application active for that animal and begin processing it the following day. CCHS will provide you with materials and resources to better prepare you for taking your pet home.
Online Applications:
Please fill out the application by clicking the link for the species of pet you would like to adopt. Once the application has been submitted, CCHS will receive it automatically. If you have issues filling out the online adoption application, please call the shelter at 217-344-7297 and ask to speak with an adoption staff member.
Online CAT Adoption Application
Online DOG Adoption Application
Online RABBIT Adoption Application
Online SMALL MAMMAL Adoption Application
Online REPTILE Adoption Application
Online BIRD Adoption Application