Frequently Asked Questions

   As we are a foster-based rescue, every dog that is in a foster home longer than necessary prevents us from being able to save more dogs and place them in those foster homes. For that reason, we prefer to limit our adoptions in a radius of 3 hours travel time from Chicago. Arranging long-distance transport of rescue animals from one state to another can often take weeks of time. If a pet in our care has not found a perfect home for them within a local radius, we will expand the radius to be sure we're finding them the right family and environment to thrive in.

Additionally, many of the pets in our care have been through a substantial amount of transition already in their lives and if we can avoid adding a cross-country trip or a plane ride to that list of stressors, it is only fair to the dog that we do our best to do so.

• Submit an adoption application on our webpage. Please do not try to call us about available dogs.
• Submit your driver's license photo and home visit photos via email.
• Wait for the adoptions team to set up a matching phone call with you and determine if you're a good match for the dog you're interested in adopting.
• If the dog you were considering is not a match for you, our team will continue to keep an eye out for the perfect match for your lifestyle and family.

Every dog adopted from Chicago Rescue Authority will come with records of all medical care provided during their time in our rescue including vaccinations, microchip information, and proof of spay/neuter. You'll want to ensure that you set up a vet appointment for your new pet within 2 weeks of adoption to get them established in case of emergencies.  

Here are the basics you will need to have on hand for your newly adopted dog.

• 6-foot sturdy leash: No retractable leashes, please!
• Sturdy collar: Martingale preferred! No prong collars.
• ID tag with your contact info
• Food bowl
• Water bowl
• Dog crate
• Dog food: we will let you know what food your foster dog has been eating while in our care to ensure an easy transition 
• Enrichment items: Your new pups foster family should be able to let you know what toys are preferred
• Commitment: above all you need to commit to helping your newly adopted dog adjust to their new life which can take time. Chicago Rescue Authority is there to help you every step of the way.

Chicago Rescue Authority will help select the best candidate to fit your life and all in it. If your home includes other dogs, cats or kids of any age it is best to be prepared to follow introduction guidelines to ensure the best chance for full integration and a happy life together.  It can sometimes take time and effort, but the end results are unconditional love for a lifetime. GO SLOW, TAKE TIME. The Chicago Rescue Authority team are committed to each of our dogs for the entirety of their lives and our adopters are considered family. Please remember that we are always available to offer additional resources or help whenever you may need it. 

Every animal is different. Sometimes during the adjustment process, dogs will prefer their own space, and sometimes they'll want to be as near to their human as possible. One of the benefits of adopting a dog that was in a foster home is the availability of insight into what makes them the most comfortable and if they're able to safely sleep out of a crate at night or need to be crated for safety. Having the availability of a crate as a safe space for your new pet to retreat to is very important for transitioning a pet to becoming a member of your household.

Chicago Rescue Authority treats health issues that are apparent when dogs arrive or conditions that develop during their time at our facility. Owner surrenders to Chicago Rescue Authority often come with their medical history and records. Dogs that we pull from city shelters often come without much history and we must evaluate visually from experience. Chicago Rescue Authority will always divulge any conditions that are known and treatment protocols.  We partner with quality vets for the very best for dogs in our care. 

Please be aware that there is always risk associated when welcoming a new dog to your home, regardless of where they are coming from. Before bringing home a new pet, make sure your resident dog is current with shots, especially bordetella, before bringing home a new pet.