The Illinois Department of Agriculture enforces regulations concerning animal welfare. Officials license and inspect several types of animal-related businesses, including pet shops, kennels and shelters. Animal welfare officials also respond to complaints concerning a variety of animal issues, such as inhumane treatment of animals, improper disposal of dead animals and animals running at large. The Animal Welfare Act covers inspection and licensure of facilities that produce or offer animals for sale or adoption.
Inspections ensure compliance with sanitation and animal health regulations.
Several types of facilities are regulated under this act, including pet shops, dog dealers, kennels and catteries, animal control facilities, animal shelters and pet foster homes, and guard dog services. Under provisions of the Animal Control Act , dogs 4 months of age and older must receive yearly rabies vaccinations. The act also requires county governments to develop regulations designed to keep animals from straying off their owners' property. Animal welfare staff work with county officials to develop and implement animal control programs. The Humane Care for Animals Act is designed to ensure individuals and businesses in Illinois feed, shelter and treat animals properly.