Questions & Answers
Frequently asked questions
Adopting, volunteering, our programs, and how to help. Don't see your question? Get in touch and we'll answer.
How do I adopt a dog or cat?
Come meet our available animals during open hours, then fill out an adoption application. You can browse adoptable pets anytime on our Adopt page.
How much does it cost to adopt?
It depends on the animal's age and any conditions. Every pet goes home already spayed or neutered, vaccinated, and microchipped, and each animal's page lists its adoption fee.
I can no longer keep my pet — what are my options?
We understand that life changes, and we're here to help, not to judge. If it's at all possible, the kindest first step is to ask family or friends, someone who already knows and loves your pet, whether they can take them in. A familiar face and a real home are far less stressful for an animal than any shelter. If that truly isn't an option, the Humane Society of Logan County does accept owner-surrendered pets by arrangement (as space and circumstances allow). Please call us at (217) 737-4042 and we'll talk through your situation and options together, with no judgment. (Found a stray that isn't yours? That's different, see below.)
What should I do if I find a stray animal?
By law, the Humane Society of Logan County cannot accept stray animals. Please call or take it to Logan County Animal Control at (217) 735-3232 (lincolnil.gov/animal-control). That gives a lost pet the best chance of being reunited with its family, and many of the animals we later take in and adopt out come to us from there.
Is HSLC a no-kill shelter?
Yes. HSLC is a no-kill shelter and never euthanizes for time or space. Humane euthanasia is used only as a last resort, when an animal is too ill or too dangerous to rehabilitate, and never lightly, only after extensive efforts to rehabilitate the animal or transfer it to a more appropriate facility.
What are your hours, and where are you located?
We're at 1801 N Lincoln Pkwy in Lincoln, Illinois. Current hours are on our home page. Call (217) 737-4042 to confirm or to set up a visit.
Do you offer low-cost spay/neuter, or help if I can't afford care?
Yes. We offer a low-cost spay/neuter program for government-assistance residents of Logan County, in partnership with Green Prairie Animal Hospitals. If you have a pet that needs spay/neuter or medical care and can't afford it, call (217) 737-4042.
Do you have a pet food pantry?
Yes, our Pet Food Pantry helps Logan County residents keep their pets fed and at home (proof of low income required). Open Wednesdays 10am to 2pm and Saturdays 9am to 12pm.
Can I volunteer or foster?
Yes! Volunteers are the heart of the shelter. Stop by during open hours to tour and pick up an application; foster-to-adopt is available for approved volunteers. See our Volunteer page.
How do I become a member of HSLC?
To become a member, complete a membership form and pay the annual membership dues. Call (217) 737-4042 to get started.
If I become a member, what's expected of me?
Members are encouraged to take part in the organization's activities, but how involved you are is up to you, from volunteering and helping with fundraisers to simply spreading the word about the work HSLC does.
Are donations tax-deductible?
Yes. The Humane Society of Logan County is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, so your donations are tax-deductible.
How is the shelter funded?
We receive no federal, state, or local tax dollars. We rely on membership dues, adoption fees, fundraising, and donations from individuals, foundations, and businesses who care about animal welfare. Every gift goes straight to the animals of Logan County.
Is HSLC part of a national organization?
No. The Humane Society of Logan County does not belong to any national organization, so 100% of our donations and fundraising go to the animals of Logan County.
When was HSLC established?
The Humane Society of Logan County was chartered as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit on April 14, 2006. We have a membership of over 200 individuals, and in 2011, through a generous donation of land, we moved into our current location.
How is HSLC governed?
HSLC is governed by its Board of Directors, with a President, Vice-President, Treasurer, and Secretary. The Board meets monthly using Robert's Rules of Order, and members may ask to be placed on the agenda to address the Board.
What's the difference between a humane society and animal control?
Humane societies were created by concerned individuals to protect animals from harm; animal control agencies were created by government to protect people from animals. Animal control is funded by local taxes and generally handles strays and enforces animal codes. HSLC depends on community donations and focuses on adopting out homeless animals, rescue, investigating cruelty, preventing pet overpopulation, and humane education.
How can I help?
Adopt, foster, volunteer, become a member, donate, or shop our wish list. Even sharing our animals on social media helps them find homes.