One Tail at a Time
https://data.sniffspot.com/full-fit-in/768x512/Photos/SeoDogRescue/417/e15afa808b70-OTAT_stacked_logo.png2144 N Wood St, Chicago, IL 60614
chicagoIllinoisUS
I was interested but hesitant to foster after losing my 15 year old pup. However, One Tail at a Time has made me so happy that I did! I know it's cheesy, but they don't just rescue animals here. The unwavering support from both the organization and the community is nothing short of remarkable. It's a collective effort, and the people involved are all willing to do what it takes to do right by our furry friends. Witnessing the dedication of One Tail at a Time has been truly uplifting and inspiring.Maggie Barbour
One Tail at a Time began in 2008 as a small grassroots effort and has since evolved into a pillar of Chicago's animal welfare community. As of 2024, One Tail at a Time has rescued more than 11,300 animals, hosts a bustling pet adoption and foster program, community outreach initiatives in partnership with top human service organizations in our city, and leads the Chicagoland Rescue Intervention & Support Program, a local rescue coalition that is the only operating shelter diversion program at Chicago's largest intake shelter.
Mission and Vision
One Tail at a Time's mission is to end pet homelessness by making pet ownership a joyful and accessible experience for all. We accomplish this by rescuing animals from overcrowded shelters, placing them in loving forever homes, and providing support and resources to pet owners in need.
Adoption Policy
- Be at least 18 years of age.- Be able to show proof of a valid photo ID. We accept forms of driver's license, passport, state ID, or matricula consular.- Check your lease or HOA for breed and weight restrictions.- We strongly recommend that any resident pets be up to date on annual vaccines and wellness care before welcoming a new friend. Reach out to your veterinarian for guidance on what vaccines your pet should receive.- Be prepared to bring all residents living in the home to meet your new potential pet (including any resident dogs).
https://www.onetail.org/available-pets
Testimonials
See all testimonials"I was interested but hesitant to foster after losing my 15 year old pup. However, One Tail at a Time has made me so happy that I did! I know it's cheesy, but they don't just rescue animals here. The unwavering support from both the organization and the community is nothing short of remarkable. It's a collective effort, and the people involved are all willing to do what it takes to do right by our furry friends. Witnessing the dedication of One Tail at a Time has been truly uplifting and inspiring."
— maggie b.
Volunteer / foster
"One tail at a time is such an amazing rescue. The community they have built is nothing short of phenomenal. The fosters, volunteers, adopters and staff care so much about the animals. Not only does one tail help homeless pets but they also have amazing community programs to help animals that already have homes by helping their owners with resources through their pet mutual aid program. One tail has shown that they not only care about the animals but the people attached to them and that’s amazing! Keeping pets in their homes is just as amazing as getting dogs adopted. A small rescue with dedicated staff and the most amazing volunteers/fosters. Chicago is so lucky to have One tail at a time!"
— alejandra m.
Adoptee, Volunteer / foster, Staff member
"I cannot express how amazing One Tail at a Time (OTAT) is when it comes to animal rescue organizations. As a longtime supporter, I've seen them help thousands upon thousands of animals in need -- providing medical care, hospice care, placing in forever homes, and more. In addition to being an amazing rescue organization, they provide support for the humans in the community -- through subsidized or fully-covered vet bills, short-term housing help, and community days for low-income or underserved areas of Chicago. I can't say enough nice things about OTAT. I'll be a supporter for life."
— david b.
Volunteer / foster, Supporter
"best everything"
— kerry p.
Staff member
"I switched to fostering and volunteering with OTAT and I have had such excellent experiences. They provide everything you need to foster and have training shifts and orientation for volunteers and additional training videos online. I love that they keep the dogs in “homes” for their various facilities. The vet has a nice drive up service. All of the staff is so knowledgeable and friendly. You can tell the dogs are happy as well."
— alifia d.
Volunteer / foster, Supporter, Fan
"My daughter volunteers and adopted a dog from One Tail. I have been impressed by the care offered to the animals and the support offered to foster and adoptive “parents.” The work they do in concert with Chicago Animal Care and Control is remarkable."
— harriet f.
Supporter, Fan
"I frequently volunteer at One Tail at a Time in addition to fostering animals. They provide so much support and care to each animal. Through their robust foster program, a facility dedicated to working on dog behavior, vet clinic, and adoption center, they really ensure each pet gets the support they need to thrive. One Tail at a Time doesn’t just save pets, but really loves each pet to make sure they have a happy and successful adoption."
— rachel b.
Volunteer / foster
"OTAT is a great high volume rescue that is supportive to their volunteers, fosters, adopters, community and most importantly the 2000+ animals they rescue every year!"
— susan f.
Volunteer / foster
"I have been a volunteer with One Tail at a Time in Chicago for 16 months and recently became a short term foster home. OTAT has many different opportunities to allow volunteers to connect with the animals both directly and indirectly. They focus on setting each animal up for success through targeted behavioral training programs, comprehensive veterinarian care, and several enrichment/interactive opportunities. As a volunteer, you have the opportunity to meet animals at the start of their rescue and be involved until they are adopted whether that is through volunteering at one of the facilities, fostering, mentoring, etc. OTAT gives animals a chance no matter the circumstances. The staff is great and the animals are even better!"
— whitney r.
Volunteer / foster, Supporter, Fan
"Best place to volunteer at!"
— kate n.
Volunteer / foster
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