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Animal Adoption
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The Animal Control Center often has animals eligible for adoption. Adoption hours are from 9:00 a.m. to 4 p.m. Mondays, Wednesday, Thursdays and Fridays, Tuesdays 9:00 a.m to 6:30 p.m and Saturdays 9:00 a.m to 12:00 p.m at the Animal Control Center, located at 9279 North 1375 East Road, Bloomington, IL (three miles south of Bloomington on Morris Avenue). Please call the Animal Control Center at (309) 888-5060 to learn what animals are currently available. Closed to the public Sundays and Holidays.
Adopters must be:
- At least 18 years or older
- Have photo identification with current address
- Be in compliance with local animal ordinances in regards to number of pets within a household
- Own permanent property or show proof of permission from landlord to allow for pets.
- Currently owned cats and dogs must be vaccinated for rabies and registered within the county they reside in.
- Pay applicable adoption fees
Adoption Fees
Illinois law requires adopted animals be spayed/neutered, vaccinated for rabies, registered with the county, and receive a microchip. Animal Control Center collects deposits toward the services of adoption, which include:
- Boarding (adoption fee) - $10
- McLean County registration - $12
- Rabies vaccination deposit - $8
- Microchipping deposit - $40
- Spay or neuter: $35
Additional veterinarian charges may apply.
Information on additional animal shelters in the area is available.
Spay / Neuter Voucher Program
Upon adoption, clients will receive a spay / neuter voucher to give to their veterinarian to help off-set spay / neuter costs. Funded by the McLean County Pet Population Control Fund, the vouchers can be used at a veterinarian of the client’s choice that participates in the voucher program. View a listing of McLean County veterinarians.
Responsibility of Adoption
Welcoming a new furry family member into your home is a rewarding, but large responsibility. Before adopting a pet, consider your current and future lifestyle and consider your answers to these questions:
- Do you already have any pets? How would they react to a new furry friend?
- Do you currently or do you plan on adding any children into your family?
- Do you have enough money in your budget to pay for scheduled and unscheduled vet visits?
- Does my current residence allow pets? If so, are there any size restrictions?
- Does your schedule allow you to spend enough time with your pet?
- What age of animal is best for you? Do you have the patience to train a puppy or is an older animal better for you?
- Who will care for the pet when you are away?
Adoption Stories
Adoption story submitted by Gina R. Feb. 11, 2014:
"About 12 years ago, we came into (the McLean County Animal Control) facility to look at a puppy. My son wanted the puppy, but the chemistry just wasn't there. Alex decided to look at the other dogs you had (available for adoption). In the last kennel he stopped and stared into the eyes of a pit mix who was about 2 years old. "This is the dog," he said. "Mia" came home with us that day and has been a loving member of the family ever since."
Pictured is Gina R.'s son, Alex, with their dog, Mia. Photo submitted by Gina R.
Adoption story submitted by Kim A. March 25, 2014:
"My husband and I were talking about getting a puppy over the past few months to replace the void left with the loss of our previous dog several years ago. We then learned that McLean County Animal Control (MCAC) had a 6-month-old Labrador available for adoption. Bella stole our hearts at the first meeting! The staff at MCAC was so helpful and offered many suggestions to help Bella settle into our home. From what we know, we are Bella’s third home, not counting her time at MCAC or the breeder’s. The adoption process went very smoothly, and we brought our rambunctious puppy home on Valentine’s Day 2014. She truly is a sweetheart—very snuggly and playful. Bella has thrived with regular daily walks, play time, and lots of chew toys. She loves to help out where she can, and her favorite job is bringing in the morning newspaper. The joy she brings to our home is immeasurable! We wish to give a big thank you to the staff at MCAC for helping us bring the pitter patter of puppy paws back into our home."
Pictured is Bella in her new forever home. Photo submitted by Kim A.
Adoption story submitted by Linda R. April 7, 2014:
"In December of 1998, I adopted a little 3 ½ year old Maltese named Teddie from the McLean County Animal Control Center. I left work early to meet her. She was extremely shy when we first met, so I sat on the floor to let her approach me when she felt comfortable. It did not take long before she crawled onto my lap and snuggled into my sweater for warmth. Well, that is all it took!
She adapted quickly to life in a loving home. Everyone in the neighborhood knew Teddie, because she and I walked several times a day. Good weather brought all of the neighborhood children outside, and most days the children accompanied us on our walks. Someone actually thought I ran a day care center, because of the number of children walking with us. She was one very popular girl no matter where we went. People were drawn to her sweet angelic face and gentle nature.
Teddie passed away on December 22, 2008, at the age of 13 ½ years. I am so thankful for the 10 wonderful years she and I shared together. I certainly hope others will visit McLean County Animal Control Center when looking to add a new pet to their homes. There are wonderful, loving, older dogs and cats that, through no fault of their own, are left at the Center. Please give them a chance to live the remainder of their lives in homes filled with love and companionship!"
Pictured is Teddie Marie about a week before she passed away. Photo submitted by Linda R.
Have you adopted an animal from the Animal Control Center? Tell us your adoption story by email.