The Anti-Cruelty Society
Building a Humane Chicago
Anti-Cruelty is Chicago’s only nonprofit open-door humane society, dedicated to building a healthy and happy community where pets and people thrive together. For more than 125 years, we have operated at the intersection of animal welfare and social well-being to strengthen the life-changing human-animal bond.
Our History of Compassion
Founded in 1899 by four compassionate women who met to discuss Chicago’s forgotten animal population, we have grown from a single meeting into an entire community committed to helping pets and educating people. From our early days of providing water for city workhorses to our modern role as a premier shelter, our commitment to an open door has remained a constant beacon of hope.
How We Serve
As an open-admission shelter, we offer a safe haven for animals with nowhere else to turn, backed by a comprehensive model of care. Our work extends beyond our facility to include low-cost veterinary services through our clinic, community-based resources to keep families together, and a dedicated network of foster parents who provide pets with the love they need to flourish.
Your Partner in Adoption
Adoption is about building a family, and our team of experts is here to guide you to your perfect match. We believe in providing thoughtful, customized adoption consultations and ongoing post-adoption support so that both you and your new companion can succeed. Through our Adoption Match Guarantee, we ensure that every transition into your home is a happy, confident experience.
Join Our Community
Whether you are looking to adopt, volunteer, or simply learn more about our mission, there are countless ways to get involved. We invite you to visit our adoption center or explore our available animals online to find a new member of your family today.
- Compassionate and patient staff
- Affordable healthcare services
- Operational friction regarding appointments
9/29 - Calling all witches! come get your soulmate before Halloween! All these animals are available for adoption at @anticruelty in Chicago.
Watch on Instagram
9/25 - Doors are now open! Anti-Cruelty is honoring the late great Dolly Parton with $9.25 adoption fees in recognition of her iconic “9 to 5” song. You can also bring a new or gently used book for a waived adoption fee. Donated books will go to the Dolly Parton Imagination Library to help kids more access books and learn to read. Details: • Dolly Parton “9 to 5” Adoption Event • Friday, September 25 • 11 a.m. – 6 p.m. • Anti-Cruelty, 510 N. LaSalle Dr. • $9.25 adoption fees OR exchange a book for a waived fee
Watch on Instagram
9/23 - Wednesday motivation, courtesy of Dolly Parton. ✨🎀 As if our dogs needed another reason to believe in themselves, maybe come meet the animals who already believe you’re their person. This Friday, September 25, adoption fees are just $9.25 at Anti-Cruelty for our Dolly Parton “9 to 5” adoption promo. Or bring a new or gently used book to donate to Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library and your adoption fee is $0. 📍 510 N LaSalle Dr. 🔗 anticruelty.org/9to5
Watch on Instagram
