Will County residents can now adopt pets directly from Will County Animal Care Services.
The department just celebrated its first hire.
Will County Assistant State's Attorney Toni Renken adopted a St. Bernard puppy named Lucy who joined Renken's family of four, according to a news release from Will County Animal Services.
This is the first time in the agency's history that we have been able to connect animals in our care to their “wild homes.” ”
— Anna Peyton, Will County Animal Care Services Manager
Renken met Lucy when she helped WCAPS staff update county ordinances, according to the release. Lucy is now a certified therapy dog assisting the Will County State's Attorney's Office, according to the release.
“The Department of Animal Protective Services has worked hard to expand services to support pet owners and keep animals in loving homes,” Will County Executive Jennifer Bertino Tarrant said in a release. I mentioned it in. “Adoption services are a welcome addition to the growing list of services available to Will County residents.”
WCAPS' new adoption program “follows significant changes to Will County's animal welfare policy in response to the growing population of animal shelters nationwide,” according to the release.
[ Will County Animal Control chief would rather help than chase pets ]
According to the release, WCAPS had previously given away the animals in its care to other animal welfare organizations for adoption. The County Commission earlier this year approved a series of ordinance changes to modernize the department's services.
“This is the first time in the agency's history that we have been able to help connect animals in our care to their 'wild' homes,” WCAPS Administrator Anna Peyton said in a release. It's about that.'' “If you're thinking about getting a new pet, now is the time to take action.
“With more adoptions than adoptions in this country, shelters are overpopulated and we are no exception. We need the help of local residents to adopt these wonderful animals. .”
In 2023, Will County Animal Services joined the Chicagoland Humane Coalition. The coalition provides access to training, research, mentoring, and collaboration opportunities with other member organizations.
Will County Animal Care Services also partners with Joliet Junior College's Veterinary Medical Technology program, sending between four and eight dogs each semester, Peyton previously said.
Those interested in adopting can view available animals on the WCAPS Petfinder website (IL1035.petfinder.com).
To make an appointment to visit one of our available pets, please call 815-462-5633 or email adopt@willcountyillinois.com.
Adoption hours are Monday through Friday from noon to 4 p.m. at the WCAPS office located at 22452 Cherry Hill Road in Joliet.
For more information, visit willcounty.gov/animalservices.
