Helping Strays of Monroe County
Our Mission
Helping Strays is dedicated to rescuing, rehabilitating, and rehoming pets in need while partnering with our community to ensure every animal receives loving care. We strive to inspire compassionate pet guardianship through dedicated advocacy and education.
Our Story
Born in 2002 from a meeting of concerned citizens, we began as the Humane Society of Monroe County with the goal of ending the euthanasia of stray and surrendered pets. Today, we operate under no-kill standards and are proud to maintain a save rate of over 98%, having successfully rescued and adopted out over 10,000 homeless pets.
How We Care
Since opening our current facility in 2016, we have provided a dedicated space that includes a turf play yard, surgery suite, and comfortable intake and recovery rooms. As an independent 501(c)(3) nonprofit, we receive no public funding and rely entirely on the generosity of our donors to support our life-saving work. Our care model combines professional shelter housing with a strong foster network, ensuring every pet receives the support they need to thrive.
Your Adoption Journey
We believe that adoption is a joyful partnership, and our expert match-makers are here to help you find the perfect companion for your family and lifestyle. Our adoption process is designed to be simple and affordable, providing you with a first-class experience before, during, and after you bring your new best friend home.
Join Our Mission
Are you ready to change a life? We invite you to visit us at our Columbia, Illinois shelter to meet our adoptable dogs and cats, or explore our website to start your adoption application. Whether you choose to adopt, volunteer, or donate, you are directly contributing to the happiness and health of animals waiting for their forever homes.
- Dedicated and helpful staff
- Transparent adoption process
- Concerns regarding mandatory spay/neuter timing
7/30 - World Wide Technology Raceway, Local Shelters Partner for Third Annual Animal Adoption Promotion - World Wide Technology Raceway
MADISON, Ill. (July 30, 2026) – World Wide Technology Raceway is teaming up with the Humane Society of Missouri and Helping Strays of Monroe County this August to help adoptable dogs find their forever homes. Throughout the month of August, the first 200 adopters at each shelter will receive four tickets to the NASCAR O’Reilly Auto...
