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Puppies and dogs in Pontiac, Illinois

Looking for a puppy or dog in Pontiac, Illinois? Adopt a Pet can help you find a new best friend near you.

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Adopt a dog in Pontiac, Illinois

These adorable dogs are available for adoption in Pontiac, Illinois. To learn more about each adoptable dog, click on the "i" icon for fast facts, or their photo or name for full details.
We'll also keep you updated on Wilma Gene's adoption status with email updates.
Photo of Wilma Gene

Wilma Gene

Staffordshire Bull Terrier

Female, Young
Herscher, IL
Size
(when grown) Med. 26-60 lbs (12-27 kg)
Details
Good with kids, Not good with dogs, Needs experienced adopter, House-trained, Spayed or Neutered, Shots are up-to-date,
Story
This is Wilma, a golden eyed beauty! Born May 16th, 2023. Willie is about 40lb, up to date on all her shots. She is spayed and she is microchipped. She is good with kids. She does not live with kids. She is house broken, crate trained, and leash trained. She knows basic commands. She can get excited for the lovins. She adores men. Like LOVES men. But mostly wants attention from all people. Wills is the BEST snuggler and extremely affectionate. She loves getting burrito-ed into her blankets and wearing her sweatshirts to keep warm. She wears her winter coat and raincoat for walks even when the weather is icky. She travels great in a vehicle, making an excellent copilot. I adopted Wilma on Dec 29, 2023 when she was 7.5 months. I’ve unfortunately come to realize I can’t keep her, and that KILLS me to say. I love this girl so much. Wilma needs to be in an only dog home. Unsure about cats.
We'll also keep you updated on Skip's adoption status with email updates.
Photo of Skip

Skip

Chihuahua Mixed Breed (Small)

Male, 13 yrs 5 mos
Normal, IL
Size
(when grown) Small 25 lbs (11 kg) or less
Details
Spayed or Neutered,
Story
Skip! Skippity doodah is a 12-year-old, 10-pound Chihuahua mix. Skip's dad sadly away. Now Skip is hoping someone will give him a new home. He is truly adorable, timid but sweet, and loves to give kisses once he knows you. Skip is good on a leash, fine in a crate, quiet in the car, and would be okay with other laid back dogs. But, young kids and really rambunctious dogs would be too much for him. Skip likes to cuddle, but is willing to play too. He's the perfect balance of fun and calm. Skip is now our longest resident, and we aren't sure why. :,( He decided to advocate for himself with these words: "Hey you! My name's Skip. But you can call me Skipper because I'm in need of a first mate. I'm a fair weather skipper so I like naps and rolling in the yard when it's sunny and warm, but limit my time outside if it's rainy or cold. I can be a big sweetheart. So, If you want to put me in your lap I'll give you plenty of kisses and I always appreciate a snuggly nap. Dog beds are a MUST, so make sure those are always available... a skipper needs his beauty rest. I'm really good in a crate and am happy to nap in there too. As much as I love to nap, I also REALLY love to go on walks! Like any skipper, I have a few quirks. I'm nervous around strangers (who isn't??). Things that shouldn't scare me make me jump (doors closing or stepping on crackly leaves). Things that SHOULD scare me I ignore (Roomba's, moving vehicles, lawnmowers). All that to say, I know once you meet me you will look past any of my quirks. Now be an obedient first mate, and use those big paws to fill out an application and come work for me... your trustworthy Skipper. Sound like a match for you? Then, please apply: https://www.shelterluv.com/matchme/adopt/DBSR/Dog His minimum adoption donation amount is $245. He is neutered, up-to-date on vaccinations, microchipped, dewormed, heart worm checked, and on flea/tick and heart worm preventatives. We are located in Bloomington, IL We do not ship, you would need to travel to pick up your babies if you live out of state. Your current pets must be up-to-date on core vaccines, spayed/neutered, and on heart worm prevention year round. You must be at least 21-years-old to adopt. For information about this dog's breed(s), visit: http://www.dogbreedinfo.com/abc.htm
We'll also keep you updated on Vincent's adoption status with email updates.
Photo of Vincent

Vincent

Shih Tzu

Male, 10 yrs 4 mos
Normal, IL
Size
(when grown) Small 25 lbs (11 kg) or less
Details
Spayed or Neutered,
Story
One of these ears is not like the other...Vincent Van Go-Go is a gorgeous male Shih Tzu. He is 8-years old, and overweight at 16-pounds. When he was picked up as a stray, he was very matted. Once trimmed, it became evident that he has one beautiful blue eye. He also had a "fake ear. His left ear canal is normal, but he has no ear flap on that side. It makes him unique and special, and it doesn't affect his hearing. When his hair grows back, you can even let him grow a new "fake ear if you prefer. No one will even notice. :) Vince likes other dogs and calm people. He is a food hound, and will need to be fed separately from any other pets. Maybe we should have named him Hoover?? Vince also cries for attention in the cutest of ways. He sounds like a mix of a baby and a small cat. It is very endearing. Vince likes cars, walks, and is okay in a crate. Please apply here: https://www.shelterluv.com/matchme/adopt/DBSR/Dog His minimum adoption donation amount is $275. He is neutered, up-to-date on vaccinations, microchipped, dewormed, heart worm checked, and on flea/tick and heart worm preventatives. We are located in Bloomington, IL We do not ship, you would need to travel to pick up your babies if you live out of state. Your current pets must be up-to-date on core vaccines, spayed/neutered, and on heart worm prevention year round. You must be at least 21-years-old to adopt. Please have your veterinarian and two non-family reference phone numbers ready. The app makes you start all over if you leave the page to look up numbers. For information about this dog's breed(s), visit: http://www.dogbreedinfo.com/abc.htm
We'll also keep you updated on Bugsy Malone's adoption status with email updates.
Photo of Bugsy Malone

Bugsy Malone

Chihuahua Miniature Dachshund

Male, 8 yrs 10 mos
Normal, IL
Size
(when grown) Small 25 lbs (11 kg) or less
Details
Spayed or Neutered,
Story
Bugsy Malone is a chiweenie (Chihuahua/dachshund) who is 8-pounds and 7-years-old. Bugsy has the typical big Doxie voice, so he shouldn't go anywhere with shared walls (I.e apartments, condos). He likes to cuddle, will play with other small dogs and toys, watch television while in your lap, walks well on a leash, and likes to cruise around in the car with you. But, he needs a really secure harness as he is a Houdini with many harnesses. Please apply here: https://www.shelterluv.com/matchme/adopt/DBSR/Dog His minimum adoption donation amount is $295. He is neutered, up-to-date on vaccinations, microchipped, dewormed, heart worm checked, and on flea/tick and heart worm preventatives. We are located in Bloomington, IL We do not ship, you would need to travel to pick up your babies if you live out of state. Your current pets must be up-to-date on core vaccines, spayed/neutered, and on heart worm prevention year round. You must be at least 21-years-old to adopt. Please have your veterinarian and two non-family reference phone numbers ready. The app makes you start all over if you leave the page to look up numbers. For information about this dog's breed(s), visit: http://www.dogbreedinfo.com/abc.htm
We'll also keep you updated on Gidget's adoption status with email updates.
Photo of Gidget

Gidget

Australian Cattle Dog American Pit Bull Terrier

Female, Adult
Normal, IL
Size
(when grown) -
Details
Spayed or Neutered, Shots are up-to-date,
Story
Meet Gidget, a 6-year-old Australian Cattle Dog/Pit Bull Mix weighing 46 pounds. Timid at first, but quick to warm up, she transforms into a wiggly-tailed, affectionate companion. She loves being petted and thinks she's a lap dog, playfully booping your hand if you stop. Her foster mom describes her as special, emphasizing Gidget's impeccable behavior, loyalty, and adaptability to various activities. This sweetheart's foster mom is proud to say that Gidget is getting much braver.  She used to hide upstairs when the family cooked and ate because of the noise, and she’ll now lay peacefully on the couch, doesn’t beg for food, and just watches TV with the family. She really loves routines and learns them very quickly - she has also became more food motivated. Gidget is calm, cuddly, and will follow you around and lay at your feet. She has a very happy and wiggly bottom, does a happy tap dance when given attention, and just super-loves her humans. Although Gidget loves humans, she needs to be the only dog in the home. Gidget thrives outdoors and on walks, demonstrating impeccable leash manners and regularly checking in with her walker. She loves running outside and often gets the "zoomies." She also loves playing fetch. Despite lacking formal commands, Gidget is incredibly well-behaved, calm, and quiet, with no exhibited prey drive—even in the presence of pet rats. In search of a loving home with a fenced yard, Gidget is ready to blossom with the right person or family. Her foster mom thinks she'll be great with kids, but believes she'll be most comfortable in a quieter home with children over 10 years old. She is a unique and special dog, eagerly awaiting the chance to become a cherished member of a lucky household. Her minimum adoption fee is $95 plus a $15 fee, if 4 months or older, for rabies registration for McLean County residents. She has been spayed, microchipped, vaccinated, heartworm checked, dewormed, and is on flea and heartworm preventatives. To be considered for adoption, you must first submit the application found at: http://fs16.formsite.com/WishBoneCanineRescue/adoptionapplication/index.html For information about this dog's breed(s), visit: http://www.dogbreedinfo.com/abc.htm Wish Bone Canine Rescue  1303 Morrissey Drive Bloomington, IL 61701 www.wishbonecaninerescue.org           Since its our desire that you have a pet you can enjoy a lifetime of love with you, we take special measures to ensure that the pet is the best match for you and your family.  We require that you complete our online www.wishbonecaninerescue.org (Please give us 24 hours to verify your information). If you have any other questions, you can reach us by email (preferred) at wbcrshelter@gmail.com.  Thank you.November 5, 2024, 6:45 pm
We'll also keep you updated on Grace's adoption status with email updates.
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Photo of Grace

Grace

German Shepherd Dog Mixed Breed (Medium)

Female, 3 yrs 10 mos
Normal, IL
Size
(when grown) Med. 26-60 lbs (12-27 kg)
Details
Spayed or Neutered,
Story
We are offering a pawesome adoption special to ring in the new year! Any pets marked with the "New Year, New Pet!" sticker, have had their adoption fee reduced to fulfill their resolution of finding their forever home! Adult dogs a part of this adoption special have had their adoption fee reduced to $99.00. Adult cats that qualify for this special have been reduced to $25.00. Apply now! My adoption fee has been sponsored My foster mom says I’m a really sweet girl.  I’ve only been with her a few days, but they have been really great.  On day one with my new foster family, I was feeling a little insecure, but my new doggy friend (male) helped me to feel much better.  We’ve been playing very well together.  I also met another female doggy and didn’t have a problem with her.  On day two, I was already taking the lead on our walks.  Oh, and did I mention that I LOVE walks and I don’t hardly even pull on the leash when I’m wearing my harness?  I’m such a good girl that I haven’t even barked once, while staying with my foster family, even though my new doggy friend likes to.  My foster mom says that I shouldn’t chase kitties, so we’re currently working on that.  Also, in case you’re wondering, I love to stay close to my human family and have my chest rubbed.  My foster mom says that I’m a pretty girl and that I have the cutest head tilt sometimes, while looking at her.  With all of these great qualities, what more could you ask for? All Pet Central animals are up to date on age-appropriate vaccinations, spayed or neutered, microchipped (registration included), and current on parasite prevention. Dogs over six-months of age are heartworm tested. When adopting, we will ensure that you receive copies of veterinary and microchip records. If you are interested in this pet, please fill out the brief Adopter Survey by hitting "Apply for Adoption" on the profile. After we review your completed survey we will contact you by phone or email within three business days. We're primarily a volunteer organization, so we appreciate your patience. Please note- Out of respect for our volunteers and staff, we are closed on Sundays and Mondays and will not be processing any applications on that day. Do get back to us right away when we call or email regarding an application so that we can quickly connect using the process below: Select a pet and submit an online adoption survey. A PCH adoption counselor will contact potential adopters within three business days (PCH cannot guarantee any pet's availability, but we make every effort to accommodate adopters with a reply and possible alternative suggestions). Counselor and client will then have a conversation to answer questions, discuss any medical needs for the pet and determine the suitability of a match (if necessary, we may opt to put adopters in touch with foster parents). After a match is made, clients will be asked to sign our adoption agreement and pay the adoption fee online through our secure payment system *Please see our modified no-risk return policy. (below) The PCH adoption counselor will then set up a specific appointment time and location. Adopters should bring a pet carrier and leash to pick up. Adult pets will be wearing a collar. It is important that clients arrive on time, neither early nor late. If your adoption is scheduled at Pet Central Helps!: Upon arrival inside the Crossroads Center complex (360 Wylie Drive), look for the black Pet Central Helps! semi-trailer, which is right outside of our facility (Suite 720). Park in the parking lot and enter the facility. A PCH representative will greet you and show you to the adoption room. Your new pet will be handed to you. We will take a "Happy Adoption Day photo with your pet and family. If your adoption is scheduled at PetSmart: Park in the PetSmart Parking lot and enter the store. We will be set up just inside the store entrance. Let us know you are here to pick up your pet! A PCH representative will confirm your information and hand you your pet. We will take a "Happy Adoption Day photo with your pet and family. PCH supports a 21-day no-fault return policy in which adopters are given the opportunity to find a better match. If we are not able to provide advice/tools to keep a pet in the home we offer these options: Exchange for a pet that may be a better match** Receive a refund minus a $40 processing fee** With this approach, we can often turn mismatches into opportunities! Thank you, Pet Central Helps!

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Dog shelters and rescues in Pontiac, Illinois

There are animal shelters and rescues that focus specifically on finding great homes for dogs in Pontiac, Illinois. Browse these rescues and shelters below.

Here are a few organizations closest to you:

Shelter

Livingston County Animal Control

844 W Lincoln St, Pontiac, IL 61764

Pet Types: dogs

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Shelter

Livingston County Humane Society

21179 North 1358 East Road, Pontiac, IL 61764

Pet Types: cats, dogs

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Rescue

RAIN of Centrail Illinois Inc.

Danvers, IL 61753

Pet Types: dogs

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Rescue

Humane Society of Illinois

POB 95, Kempton, IL 60946

Pet Types: cats, birds, dogs, farm animals, horses, rabbits, small animals

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Rescue

Central Illinois Sheltie Rescue

Bloomington, IL 61776

Pet Types: dogs

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Rescue

Furrever Family

PO Box 5243, Bloomington, IL 61702

Pet Types: cats, dogs

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Rescue

Just Animals Shelter

P.O. Box 275, Mazon, IL 60444

Pet Types: cats, dogs

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Rescue

Pet Project, Inc.

2676 E 2575 RD, Marseilles, IL 61341

Pet Types: cats, dogs

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Shelter

Humane Society of Central Illinois

423 Kays Drive, Normal, IL 61761

Pet Types: cats, dogs

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Looking for a specific shelter or rescue?

For a comprehensive list of all shelters and rescues, try our search page. We have more than 17,000 organizations in our database with furry pals waiting for a new home!

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Looking for a specific breed?

Select from the options below to view adoptable puppies and dogs in Pontiac, Illinois and nearby cities.

Popular dog breeds

Affenpinscher Afghan Hound Airedale Terrier Akbash Akita Alaskan Klee Kai Alaskan Malamute American Bulldog American Cocker Spaniel American Eskimo Dog American Hairless Terrier American Pit Bull Terrier American Staffordshire Terrier Anatolian Shepherd Aussiedoodle Australian Cattle Dog Australian Kelpie Australian Shepherd Australian Terrier Basenji Basset Hound Beagle Bearded Collie Beauceron Bedlington Terrier Belgian Laekenois Belgian Malinois Belgian Shepherd Belgian Tervuren Bernedoodle Bernese Mountain Dog Bichon Frise Black Mouth Cur Black and Tan Coonhound Bloodhound Blue Lacy/Texas Lacy Bluetick Coonhound Bolognese Border Collie Border Terrier Borzoi Boston Terrier Bouvier des Flandres Boxer Boykin Spaniel Briard Brittany Brussels Griffon Bull Terrier Bullmastiff Cairn Terrier Canaan Dog Cane Corso Cardigan Welsh Corgi Carolina Dog Catahoula Leopard Dog Caucasian Shepherd Dog Cavachon Cavalier King Charles Spaniel Cavapoo Chesapeake Bay Retriever Chihuahua Chinese Crested Chinook Chiweenie Chow Chow Clumber Spaniel Cockapoo Cocker Spaniel Collie Coonhound Corgi Coton de Tulear Curly-Coated Retriever Dachshund Dalmatian Dandie Dinmont Terrier Doberman Pinscher Dogo Argentino Dogue de Bordeaux Dutch Shepherd English (Redtick) Coonhound English Bulldog English Cocker Spaniel English Setter English Shepherd English Springer Spaniel English Toy Spaniel Entlebucher Feist Field Spaniel Fila Brasileiro Finnish Lapphund Finnish Spitz Flat-Coated Retriever Fox Terrier (Smooth) Fox Terrier (Toy) Fox Terrier (Wirehaired) Foxhound French Bulldog German Pinscher German Shepherd Dog German Shorthaired Pointer German Spitz German Wirehaired Pointer Glen of Imaal Terrier Goberian Golden Retriever Goldendoodle Gordon Setter Great Dane Great Pyrenees Greater Swiss Mountain Dog Greyhound Halden Hound (Haldenstrover) Harrier Havanese Horgi Hovawart Husky Ibizan Hound Icelandic Sheepdog Irish Setter Irish Terrier Irish Water Spaniel Irish Wolfhound Italian Greyhound Italian Spinone Jack Russell Terrier Japanese Chin Jindo Kai Dog Karelian Bear Dog Keeshond Kerry Blue Terrier Kishu Komondor Kuvasz Kyi Leo Labradoodle Labrador Retriever Lakeland Terrier Lancashire Heeler Leonberger Lhasa Apso Löwchen Maltese Maltipoo Manchester Terrier Maremma Sheepdog Mastiff Miniature Bull Terrier Miniature Dachshund Miniature Pinscher Morkie Mountain Cur Munsterlander Mutt Neapolitan Mastiff Newfoundland Norfolk Terrier Norwegian Buhund Norwegian Elkhound Norwegian Lundehund Norwich Terrier Nova Scotia Duck-Tolling Retriever Old English Sheepdog Olde English Bulldogge Otterhound Papillon Parson Russell Terrier Patterdale Terrier (Fell Terrier) Pekingese Pembroke Welsh Corgi Petit Basset Griffon Vendeen Pharaoh Hound Pitsky Plott Hound Podengo Portugueso Pointer Polish Lowland Sheepdog Pomeranian Pomsky Poodle (Miniature) Poodle (Standard) Poodle (Toy or Tea Cup) Portuguese Water Dog Presa Canario Pug Puggle Puli Pumi Rat Terrier Redbone Coonhound Rhodesian Ridgeback Rottweiler Saluki Samoyed Schiller Hound Schipperke Schnauzer (Giant) Schnauzer (Miniature) Schnauzer (Standard) Schnoodle Scottie, Scottish Terrier Scottish Deerhound Sealyham Terrier Shar Pei Sheepadoodle Sheltie, Shetland Sheepdog Sheppit Shepsky Shiba Inu Shih Poo Shih Tzu Silky Terrier Skye Terrier Sloughi St. Bernard Staffordshire Bull Terrier Sussex Spaniel Swedish Vallhund Texas Heeler Thai Ridgeback Tibetan Mastiff Tibetan Spaniel Tibetan Terrier Tosa Inu Treeing Walker Coonhound Vizsla Weimaraner Welsh Springer Spaniel Welsh Terrier Westie, West Highland White Terrier Wheaten Terrier Whippet Wirehaired Pointing Griffon Xoloitzcuintle/Mexican Hairless Yorkie Poo Yorkie, Yorkshire Terrier