Crisis Assistance Experience
A Bond Never Broken: Brian & Oreo’s Story
When Brian needed urgent medical treatment, he was faced with an impossible choice—get the care he needed or stay with his loyal companion, Oreo. The thought of leaving Oreo behind was unbearable. Like so many pet owners in crisis, Brian considered putting his own health at risk just to avoid being separated from the cat he loved.
That’s when he found A.D.O.P.T.’s Blessed Bonds Crisis Assistance Program. After reaching out, Brian was relieved to learn that Oreo could stay in a safe, loving foster home while he focused on healing. Oreo received the care and affection he needed—and Brian was able to get the medical help he desperately required without fear or guilt.
Their joyful reunion was more than heartwarming—it was a powerful reminder of what Blessed Bonds is all about: keeping families together, even through the hardest times.
Today, Brian and Oreo are back home, healthy and happy—grateful for a second chance made possible by your support.
Crisis Assistance Program
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Our Mission
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Our Vision
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We Believe
Options When Facing a Crisis
Alternatives For Pet Owners
- Contact friends, family, neighbours, and coworkers to find out if anyone is willing to care for your pet, either until you’re able to be reunited or just briefly while you search for placement in a foster care program. Shelter programs should always be a last resort after exploring options within your social circles
- Contact your veterinarian or local boarding facilities to ask about low-cost boarding options. Pet care professionals who have gotten to know your pet often feel personally invested in your pet’s well-being and may be willing to help with low-cost care or a payment plan
- Check out our Crisis Resource Guide to learn about other programs in Chicagoland that provide help to pets and their families in times of crisis
Blessed Bonds FAQs
Answers to Questions About Our Crisis Assistance Services
Owners in Chicagoland who are temporarily unable to care for their pet and are facing illness, hospitalization, rehab, domestic violence, homelessness, incarceration, and other personal crises.
Requests for financial assistance, foster care during a move by personal choice, and assistance for residents outside of the Chicagoland area. If you’re unsure if you qualify for Blessed Bonds, please call or email us and share your situation; our staff is here to help you.
Blessed Bonds foster care is temporary and will be provided for up to one month.
Call the shelter at (630) 355-2299 or fill out the application for Blessed Bonds foster assistance here. You may also fill out the application for animal care supplies here. Submit applications via email to blessedbonds@adoptpetshelter.org or fax to 630-800-2194. Hard copies are available upon request through blessedbonds@adoptpetshelter.org or (630) 355-2299. Ensure your pet’s veterinary records are available and that your pet is up-to-date on vaccinations and spayed/neutered. If you need assistance with vaccinations or spaying/neutering, indicate this on your application; our on-site clinic can usually assist.
Our greatest need is foster homes. As a temporary foster parent, you get to pick what type of pet you would like to foster, as well as the frequency and amount of time you are able to give. Remember that the more foster homes we have, the more animals we can save! Click here to find out more about becoming a foster or complete an application here.
Another way to help is to donate to the Blessed Bonds Fund. These funds help us provide vaccines the pet needs before going to foster care, or emergency boarding for large dogs or bully breeds who may be difficult to place in a foster home.
Need assistance or have specific questions?
Reach out to our team, and we’ll be happy to help.