Will County APS Launches New Pet Assistance Program

“HOPE Program” offers free spay, neuter, and microchip services for pet owners in need of assistance

Will County Animal Protection Services (Will County APS) has launched their Helping Owners & Pets Equitably (HOPE) Program, a free program for eligible Will County households to spay, neuter, and microchip their dogs and cats. The program aims to ensure healthy outcomes for Will County pets, help control pet overpopulation by reducing the number of unplanned litters, and lower the number of pets in area shelters.

The program is eligible to Will County residents who either participate in the Illinois LINK program or receive Social Security Disability Insurance. Eligible residents can apply for a voucher directly through Will County APS for their dog or cat to receive a free spay or neuter surgery at one of 14 participating veterinary offices.
Will County APS will also provide a free microchip for pets if they are not microchipped already, ensuring that families can reunite with their lost pets quickly and safely.

“We are proud to have 14 HOPE Veterinary Partners in and around Will County participating in this impactful program,” said Will County APS Administrator Anna Payton. “Together we are working to keep pets in the home with the people who love them.”

Residents interested the program can apply directly at the Will County APS office at 22452 South Cherry Hill Road in Joliet, or by emailing wcaps@willcounty.gov. Applicants will need to provide the following:

• Their signed LINK card or their Social Security Benefit Verification Letter
• Their valid driver’s license or state ID or other proof of Will County residency
• A current rabies certificate for their dog or cat if it is 4 months of age or older

To be approved, the name and current address must match on all required documents. Once eligibility has been verified by staff, applicants will receive a voucher authorizing the free spay or neuter surgery for their pet and a confirmation letter with additional instructions. HOPE Program veterinary partners are located in Aurora, Joliet, Matteson, Naperville, Orland Park, Oswego, Peotone, Plainfield, and Shorewood.

The HOPE Program will be in effect until November 30, 2026, or until all funds have been expended. The program is funded completely by rabies registration fees and the Will County Animal Population Fund. Will County APS intends to renew the program annually if funding remains available.

For more information on the HOPE Program or other animal assistance programs in the area, please visit WillCounty.gov/AnimalServices, email wcaps@willcounty.gov, or call 815-462-5633.