If You Want to Surrender Your Dog

Life changes, and sometimes people feel overwhelmed or unsure if they can keep their dog. This page is here to help you understand your options in Chicago and Cook County — without judgment. Many people who think they must surrender their dog actually just need support, training guidance, or short‑term resources. Before making a final decision, it’s worth exploring the help that exists.

Before You Surrender: Can the Issue Be Solved?

Many challenges that lead people to consider surrendering — behavior problems, cost, housing issues, or lack of time — are common and fixable. You’re not alone, and you’re not failing. Dogs don’t come with manuals, and most owners need help at some point.

A good first step is to identify the core issue. Once you know what’s really going on, you can choose the right kind of support.

Training Help & Tips for New or Struggling Dog Owners

Behavior is one of the top reasons people consider surrendering a dog. The good news is that most behavior issues improve with structure, consistency, and the right tools.

If your dog is pulling on the leash

  • Use a front‑clip harness
  • Practice short, structured walks
  • Reward calm walking with treats

If your dog is jumping on people

  • Teach a simple “sit for attention” routine
  • Reward calm greetings
  • Avoid reinforcing excitement with petting or eye contact

If your dog is destructive or restless

  • Increase daily exercise
  • Add enrichment like puzzle feeders, chew items, or sniff walks
  • Use crates or gated areas for safe downtime

If your dog is fearful or reactive

  • Avoid punishment — it increases fear
  • Create distance from triggers
  • Use treats to build positive associations
  • Consider a professional trainer who uses positive reinforcement

If you’re a new dog owner

  • Keep routines predictable
  • Use short training sessions (2–5 minutes)
  • Focus on one skill at a time
  • Reinforce the behaviors you want, not the ones you don’t

Training doesn’t have to be complicated. Small, consistent steps make a big difference.

Professional Dog Training Support

Working with a professional dog trainer can dramatically improve behavior and reduce stress for both you and your dog. Trainers help you understand your dog’s needs, communicate clearly, and build routines that prevent problems from escalating.

Copilot Dog Training (Chicago)
Offers discounted training for CACC adopters.
Website: copilotdogtraining.com

Resources That Can Help You Keep Your Dog

Chicago has several organizations that provide food, supplies, training guidance, and sometimes vet assistance. These programs exist specifically to help families stay together.

PAWS Chicago – Pet Food Pantry & Support Programs
Free dog food, supplies, and occasional training guidance.
Phone: 773‑935‑7297
Location: 3516 W. 26th St., Chicago
Website: pawschicago.org

The Anti‑Cruelty Society – Friends Who Care Program
Provides free pet food, basic supplies, and limited vet assistance.
Phone: 312‑644‑8338
Location: 510 N. LaSalle St., Chicago
Website: anticruelty.org

South Suburban Humane Society – Homewood Adoption Center
Offers food, supplies, and sometimes vet assistance.
Phone: 708‑755‑7387
Location: 2207 183rd St., Homewood, IL
Website: southsuburbanhumane.org

Chicago Animal Care and Control – Pet Food Pantry
Free pet food for Chicago residents.
Phone: 312‑747‑1406
Location: 2741 S. Western Ave., Chicago
Website: CACC website

Local Food Pantries
Many carry pet food — ask your nearest pantry or search “Chicago food pantry pet food.”

If You Still Need to Surrender Your Dog

If keeping your dog is no longer possible, the safest option is to work with a no‑kill or limited‑admission shelter or a reputable rescue. These organizations do not euthanize for space and can often place your dog in a foster home.

PAWS Chicago
Phone: 773‑935‑7297
Website: pawschicago.org

Chicago Canine Rescue
Phone: 773‑294‑9305
Website: chicagocaninerescue.org

South Suburban Humane Society
Phone: 708‑755‑7387
Website: southsuburbanhumane.org

Heartland Animal Shelter
Phone: 847‑296‑6400
Website: heartlandanimalshelter.org

Orphans of the Storm
Phone: 847‑945‑0235
Website: orphansofthestorm.org

One Tail at a Time
Email: adopt@onetail.org
Website: onetail.org

ALIVE Rescue
Email: info@aliverescue.org
Website: aliverescue.org

Most rescues have waitlists — that’s normal. Contact multiple groups at once.

Be Honest About Your Dog’s Needs

When speaking with a shelter or rescue, share accurate information about:

  • Behavior
  • Medical needs
  • Training history
  • Whether they’re good with kids or other dogs
  • Any bite history

Honesty helps them place your dog safely and appropriately.

Open‑Admission Shelters (Last Resort)

These facilities accept all animals but may euthanize when at capacity. They should be used only when no other options are available.

The Anti‑Cruelty Society
Phone: 312‑644‑8338
Website: anticruelty.org

Chicago Animal Care and Control (CACC)
Phone: 312‑747‑1406
Location: 2741 S. Western Ave.
Website: CACC website

If You Want to Rehome Your Dog Yourself

Some people prefer to find a new home directly. This can work well if done safely.

Do:

  • Ask friends, family, coworkers, neighbors
  • Post on Nextdoor or local Facebook groups
  • Meet adopters in a public place
  • Ask for vet references if possible

Do NOT:

  • Never list a dog as “free to a good home”
  • Never hand a dog over without screening
  • Never give a dog to someone you don’t feel comfortable with

Your dog’s safety comes first.

You’re Not Alone

Surrendering a dog is emotionally difficult. This page exists to help you make the safest, most informed choice for your dog’s future — whether that means keeping them with support or finding them a new home.


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