One Tail at a Time
Our Mission
One Tail at a Time is dedicated to ending pet homelessness by making pet ownership a joyful and accessible experience for all. We work to rescue animals from overcrowded shelters, place them in loving forever homes, and provide essential resources to pet owners in need.
Our Story
Born in 2008 inside an Albany Park apartment, our organization began as a small group of friends determined to be a safety net for dogs left behind in city shelters. Over the years, we have grown into a well-known and respected rescue organization, consistently serving as a top transfer partner for Chicago Animal Care and Control while expanding our reach to support community pets through dedicated programs.
How We Help
We operate as a cooperative that prioritizes vulnerable populations, including big dogs, seniors, and those with complex medical needs. Our care model relies on a robust network of dedicated foster homes complemented by our specialized facilities, such as the Bucktown Adoption Center, the PetSmart Everyday Adoption Center, and our internal veterinary and isolation clinics.
Your Partner in Adoption
We believe in fostering a non-judgmental, inclusive environment to build lasting relationships between people and pets. Our team is committed to thoughtful, transparent matching, ensuring that each adoption is a successful partnership that brings happiness to your home and stability to the animal.
Join Our Community
Whether you are looking to adopt, volunteer, or provide support, there are many ways to get involved with our mission. Please explore our available pets online, visit us at one of our Chicago adoption centers, or reach out to our team to start your journey of saving lives with us.
- Knowledgeable and caring staff
- Community and foster-based focus
- Operational friction and process clarity
7/21 - Urban Pooch Adoption Event - One Tail at a Time
Details Date: August 8 Time: 01:00 pm - 05:00 pm Event Category: Adoption Event, Third-party Event Website: Event Website Venue Urban Pooch Training and Fitness Center 5400 N DamenChicago, Illinois,...
7/12 - Chicago Bark-BQ Bash collects donations for local animal rescues
Organizers Kelly Weekly and Rosa Lugardo joined ABC7, along with Cinderblock Sue, to discuss on Sunday
5/29 - Anxious Shelter Dog Refuses To Go Anywhere Without His Emotional Support Stuffies
“His love of stuffies was pretty much instant!”
5/15 - They Used Cardboard For Warmth In Snow-Covered Dump — Then A Hero Arrived
Huddled in a snow-covered garbage dump in La Loche, a village in Saskatchewan, Canada, a group of four puppy siblings struggled to survive. With no one looking out for them, the pups fended for themselves. They cuddled together and used bits of cardboard for protection, waiting for someone to pass by and offer a helping hand.
4/2 - Help for rising pet care costs like food, vet bills is available in the Chicago area
Rising consumer costs are not just effecting humans, but our furry family members too. The costs for caring for a pet – from food to vet bills and more – have force more owners to surrender animals they find they can no longer afford.
3/19 - Houndstooth Ball returns for a paw-some night
The Houndstooth Ball returns to Chicago with a lively, dog-friendly evening supporting One Tail at a Time. Guests can expect cocktails, auctions and plenty of adorable pups, all while raising critical funds for animal rescue and community programs.
3/18 - Half-Off Adoptions at our PetSmart Everyday Adoption Center - One Tail at a Time
Details Date: March 23 Time: 11:00 am - 06:00 pm Event Category: Official OTAT Event Venue PetSmart Everyday Adoption Center 1101 S Canal StChicago, IL It’s National Adoption Week and...
3/10 - Shelter, not "dog pound": Chicago leader says animal shelter needs rebrand
Housing struggles and rising intake are pushing more animals into CACC — and increasing pressure on staff.
3/5 - Animal Control Boss Defends Record As Volunteers, Alders Sound Alarm Over Euthanasias, Conditions
In an interview with Block Club, Susan Cappello rejected claims dogs are euthanized for space and said her extended acting role at Chicago Animal Care and Control shaped public perception.
3/4 - Best of Chicago 2025: Buy Local poll winners - Chicago Reader
The readers voted, and the results are here! Read who won best in Buy Local.
