The Anti-Cruelty Society (ACS) is one of Chicago’s longest‑standing animal welfare organizations.
They offer adoption services, community support programs, low‑cost veterinary care, and resources
designed to help people keep their pets whenever possible. ACS is an open‑admission shelter,
meaning they accept animals regardless of age, health, or behavior.
This page explains what ACS offers, how to adopt, and how to access their support programs.
Adopting From The Anti-Cruelty Society
ACS has a wide variety of dogs, from puppies to seniors. Many come from owner surrenders, while others
arrive as strays or transfers from partner shelters. Their adoption counselors can help match you with
a dog whose needs fit your lifestyle.
What to Expect When Adopting
- Dogs may be stressed or overwhelmed in the shelter environment
- Behavior in the shelter may not reflect behavior in a home
- Some dogs have unknown histories
- Many dogs need decompression time and structure
ACS provides adopters with guidance and post‑adoption support to help ensure a successful transition.
Location and Contact Information
Address: 510 N. LaSalle St., Chicago, IL
Phone: 312‑644‑8338
Website: Search “Anti-Cruelty Society Chicago”
Hours
Hours vary by department, so it’s best to check their website before visiting. Adoption hours typically
include afternoons and weekends.
Programs and Services
ACS offers a wide range of programs designed to support both pets and their families.
Friends Who Care Program
Provides free pet food, basic supplies, and limited financial assistance for veterinary care to qualifying
families. This program helps people keep their pets during difficult times.
Low-Cost Veterinary Services
ACS offers affordable services such as vaccinations, spay/neuter, microchipping, and basic medical care.
These services help reduce financial barriers to responsible pet ownership.
Behavior and Training Resources
ACS provides behavior support through their Behavior Helpline, offering guidance on common
issues such as leash pulling, reactivity, fear, and house training.
- Phone consultations
- Email support
- Training articles and videos
Pet Food Pantry
ACS operates a pet food pantry to help families experiencing financial hardship. This program ensures that
pets can stay with their families even when money is tight.
Volunteering at ACS
Volunteers play a vital role in caring for animals and supporting ACS programs. Opportunities include:
- Dog walking and enrichment
- Cat socialization
- Fostering animals
- Administrative support
- Event assistance
Volunteering is a meaningful way to help animals and support the community.
Fostering Through ACS
ACS has an active foster program that places animals in temporary homes. Fostering helps:
- Reduce stress for animals who struggle in the shelter
- Open space for more animals in need
- Provide valuable behavior information for adopters
Fostering is ideal for people who want to help but cannot commit to long‑term ownership.
If You Lost or Found a Dog
While ACS is not the city’s official stray holding facility (that is CACC), they do take in some found animals
and may be able to help with reunification efforts.
If You Lost Your Dog
- Check ACS’s found animal listings
- Visit in person if possible
- Bring proof of ownership
If You Found a Dog
- Check for a microchip at ACS or any vet clinic
- Report the found dog to ACS and CACC
- Post on local lost‑and‑found groups
If You Are Considering Surrendering Your Dog
ACS is an open‑admission shelter, but surrender should always be a last resort. Before surrendering,
explore:
- Training and behavior support
- Food and supply assistance
- Low‑cost veterinary care
- Rehoming safely through friends, family, or rescues
If surrender is unavoidable, call ahead to understand the process, fees, and what to expect.
Why The Anti-Cruelty Society Matters
ACS plays a crucial role in Chicago’s animal welfare network. They provide compassionate care, community support,
and resources that help keep pets with their families. Whether you adopt, volunteer, foster, or donate, your
involvement helps strengthen the safety net for animals across the city.