Aurora Animal Care and Control is honoring Illinois veterans with a new “Pets for Vets” program that waives adoption fees on one cat or dog every two years for those who’ve served.
The city says the initiative is designed to give back to veterans while also helping animals in need of homes.
“This initiative really helps out everybody,” said Jon Zaghloul, communications manager for the City of Aurora. “Veterans get a great opportunity to take home a furry friend to help out with emotional support, but at the same time, the Aurora Animal Care and Control team gets a chance to send home a pet to a loving home where they know that pet is gonna get great care.”
To qualify, Illinois veterans must show a valid driver’s license or state ID with “veteran” printed on it, a federally issued veteran ID card or an official DD214 discharge form along with an Illinois ID. Once approved, the adoption fee is waived.
Zaghloul said the program aims to break down barriers while providing emotional support for those who’ve served.
“A lot of our veterans, they’ve served our country so well, but coming home after serving – especially overseas – you’re gonna face potential challenges and trauma from that time,” Zaghloul said. “Having a loyal companion, a dog or a cat right next to you, really helps out immensely.”
Aurora officials say the “Pets for Vets” program will continue indefinitely but decided to launch this week in the lead-up to Veterans Day.
Eligible veterans can adopt in person at Aurora Animal Care and Control, 600 S. River Street, Monday through Saturday from noon to 4 p.m., or view adoptable pets online at 24PetConnect.com/AuroraAdopt.