Thinking of Surrendering Your Dog?

We understand that life circumstances can change, leading individuals to face challenges in caring for their dog. Our primary concern is that, in moments of desperation, people may consider giving or selling their dog to strangers. Without the necessary references and home checks conducted by rescue groups, dogs may end up in potentially harmful and abusive environments. Our goal is to ensure that your beloved companion finds the caring and secure home they truly deserve.

Before you make the decision to surrender, give away, or sell your dog, we may be able to help you find solutions that will allow you to keep your dog as a member of the family. While we can't guarantee miracles, we do have extensive experience dealing with a multitude of issues and can certainly offer suggestions and alternatives to giving up your dog.

We understand that sometimes despite best efforts it is necessary to surrender your dog. In this case, we feel the best solution is for Chicago Rescue Authority to take the dog and find them a new, loving home.

Based on urgency and foster home space availability, Chicago Rescue Authority does take in dogs surrendered by their owners. Please understand that because we have very limited resources, it's necessary for us to prioritize the dogs we take into rescue. Shelter dogs in danger of being euthanized are given first and top priority. Next are dogs in need of immediate health care that their owners cannot provide. Then, owner surrenders are considered. Please be patient with us and we will do our best to work with you to ensure the safety and well-being of your dog.

Chicago Rescue Authority knows that surrendering your dog is a very difficult decision, but sometimes - it is the only one to make. If you choose to surrender your dog, you'll be asked to complete a surrender contract. Your signature on this contract represents a permanent decision on your part. This legally binding contract gives full ownership of the dog to Chicago Rescue Authority. This allows us to provide veterinary care and down the road, legally adopt out the dog to a carefully pre-screened 'forever' home. Please note: We consider adoptions through our organization to be closed, meaning that we do not reveal the identities of either the surrendering or adopting parties. This ensures your privacy, as well as the privacy of the adopter, will be protected.