Helping Paws Animal Shelter
A Legacy of Compassion
At Helping Paws Animal Shelter, we believe that every animal deserves a loving home and a fresh start. Our mission is centered on the simple yet powerful conviction that Second Chances Start Here.
Our Story
Established in 1969, we have spent decades serving McHenry County and beyond as a dedicated no-kill animal welfare association. From our humble beginnings as a foster program, we have grown into a 10,000-square-foot facility in Woodstock, IL, where our staff and volunteers provide compassionate care for hundreds of animals every year.
How We Help
Our dedicated team of employees and over 300 volunteers work tirelessly to provide a safe, respectful environment for up to 125 cats and 45 dogs at a time. By treating every animal with kindness and dignity, we ensure they are healthy and ready for their next chapter while they wait for their forever families.
The Adopter Connection
We believe that finding the right match is the foundation of a lasting bond. Our experienced team is here to support you throughout your journey, sharing insights into the personality and history of our pets to ensure a perfect fit for your lifestyle. We take pride in facilitating these life-changing connections that bring joy to both the animals and the families who adopt them.
Join Our Mission
We invite you to visit us in Woodstock to meet your new best friend in person. Whether you are looking to adopt or simply want to learn more about our work, we look forward to welcoming you to the Helping Paws family.
- Clean and organized facility
- Staff dedication to animal wellbeing
- Communication breakdown regarding application status
10/14 - Warning: Cuteness overload! Meet some of our adorable pups who are looking for their forever homes! Could one of these sweet faces be the one who steals your heart? Check out our website for more information on these sweet pups and how to make one part of your family! Every Paw Deserves a Second Chance! helpingpaws.net #HelpingPawsAnimalShelter #AdoptDontShop #PuppyLove #SecondChancesStartHere
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10/9 - Looking to add some fun to your fall season? Well aren't ya' in the right place! Meet our girl Janis; she is a five month old Tortie and the last of her litter. Janis is a little bit of everything; sweet, spicey, and unapologetically herself. She enjoys being pet and picked up, as well as getting lots of attention to herself. Especially when it's a human flinging around a wand toy! She does have a little bit of the classic 'torti-tude' with the other kittens. Janis does really enjoy playing with them though she likes to be in charge and will set her own boundaries. She has come out of her shell and would make a great addition to your home! Call us at 815-338-4400 to meet her.
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10/3 - Looking for a new best friend? How about one that will keep you entertained all day? Look no further than Mr. Todd! Todd came to us from Southern IL; he is one and a half years old. He hasn't missed a beat, being extremely friendly and lovey since day one. He is sooo freaking sweet and will be the best cuddle buddy. Not only does he do great with the humans, he's been getting along with all the cats in the room as well. He's not afraid to try to share a human's lap with another kitty, even if the other kitty isn't ready for that. Todd is quite the comedian, especially when he is chasing the stink-bugs and flinging them into the air. We don't condone any type of bug-torture but apparently Todd does it as a hobby! He is silly and adventurous, and would make any human happy with his antics. Call us to meet our affectionate funny kitty! 815-338-4400.
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9/25 - We can't believe our girl Sweet Pea is still here! She is the last of her litter, who were all born here at HP on January 29th. SP is now about eight months old, 31 lbs, and she is a Terrier Mix. This girl would add so much joy to your life! Her name has been fitting since she was a tiny baby; she's always been super sweet and loves to give kisses. In the shelter, she seems like she has a ton of energy but when given the chance for an outing, she does absolutely amazing! Sweet Pea had a trip to Lake Geneva and was a whole different dog. She rode perfectly in the car, walked like an angel with a harness, was calm and friendly with kids, dogs, and people. SP really just needs someone to give her a Second Chance so she can show you how much of a good girl she can be! She also loves cats and enjoys a rough and tumble play session in the yard with her doggy friends. Call us to meet her! 815-338-4400.
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9/25 - Every face has a story. Every paw deserves a second chance. From silly zoomies to quiet cuddles, these are just some of the amazing animals waiting for their next chapter. Second Chances Start Here. 🐾 Come meet your new best friend at Helping Paws! Contact the shelter at 815-338-4400 or visit our website helpingpaws.net.
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