Dear Friend, 

We’re headed into Chicago's cold-weather season, when the leisurely neighborhood strolls of summer fade into cozy couch spots and toasty fireplace evenings. We’re all prone to less activity in the winter but, for some pups, that quickly turns into cabin fever. 

Mental and physical enrichment become extra important during this time and, to prevent any bad habits formed due to boredom, we have some tips and tricks for you to try! 

“There are lots of indoor games you and your dog can do at home to provide physical and mental stimulation to replace outdoor time,” says PAWS canine behavior trainer Marta Adamek. “We recommend games like puzzles, Kongs, hide & seek, or take one of our Nose Work or Agility classes and modify the activities for your home!" 

Browse PAWS Training Classes

Make your home a cozy retreat for your pets. Provide warm bedding, blankets, and their favorite spots to lounge. Ensure they have access to fresh water and consider adding a humidifier to combat dry indoor air, which can be tough on their skin and respiratory systems.  

To help prevent pets from going in the house during winter months, establish a consistent routine that encourages outdoor bathroom breaks, even in cold weather. Take them out regularly, especially after meals and before bed, to reinforce good habits. Consider using pet-friendly outdoor gear, like sweaters or boots, to keep them warm and comfortable.  

It also helps to create a designated potty area that's easily accessible and clear of snow. Additionally, ensure your pets have ample opportunity to relieve themselves during the day, and if accidents occur indoors, clean them thoroughly to eliminate lingering scents that may encourage repeat behavior. Positive reinforcement, like treats or praise, can also motivate them to do their business outside. 

Boredom can lead to mischief! Keep your pets mentally stimulated with interactive toys, puzzle feeders, and treat-dispensing balls. Rotate toys regularly to keep things fresh and exciting. You can also teach them new tricks or reinforce training cues, turning playtime into a productive session. 

Training isn’t just about teaching cues; it’s a fantastic opportunity for pets to engage their minds, build a stronger bond with their owners, and start a foundation for customizable enrichment at home.  

PAWS training classes are aimed at helping you better communicate with your pup and understanding their signals through positive reinforcement. Whether you’re working on getting all the classics nailed down so your pup can “sit” and “stay” with the best of them, or want to level up through our Tricks classes, you might just find your new favorite activity to pass the time with your BFF along the way.  

While winter may keep us indoors, there are plenty of ways to keep your pet happy and healthy. By creating a stimulating environment, engaging in fun activities, and maintaining their health, you can ensure your furry companion enjoys the season as much as you do.  

Stay warm and enjoy the winter snuggles! 

Happy Roo’s for Ryder’s Recovery 

After falling ill with a rare disease, Ryder is back on his feet and serenading his new family with his signature “happy roos!"
 

Read his Story

Upcoming Adoption Events


Fashion Outlets Adoption Events
Saturday, November 2, noon–3 p.m. 
Saturday, December 7, noon–3 p.m.
Fashion Outlets of Chicago, in front of Forever 21 
5220 Fashion Outlets Way, Rosemont, IL 60018

Deals and dogs? It doesn’t get much better than that! Enjoy a day filled with wagging tails, cute pups, and the chance to find your new best friend at the Fashion Outlets of Chicago.


First Responders Adoption Events
Saturday, November 2, 11 a.m.–5 p.m. 
Sunday, November 3, 11 a.m.–5 p.m. 
Pippen Fasseas Adoption Center 
1997 N. Clybourn Ave. Chicago, IL 60614.

PAWS is looking to match some of our hardworking local first responders with the perfect furry companion to give you some TLC on your days off. The adoption fee will be fully waived for select pets at this event. Please bring proof of employment to receive the discount. 
 

See Adoptable Pets

Volunteer of the Month: Bonnie Morgan

After 10 years and over 3,000 hours of unwavering commitment to PAWS Chicago, Bonnie Morgan wears many hats, making a profound impact on the lives of countless homeless pets. Discover how her dedication is changing the game for animal welfare!
 

Meet Bonnie

Junior Volunteers Program

Our Junior Volunteer team is for animal lovers ages 12–17, where you can help care for PAWS pets and provide a clean, safe, loving environment while volunteering alongside a parent or guardian. 

Junior Volunteers can choose between our Adoption Center in Lincoln Park and our Medical Center in Little Village, with weekday and weekend availability. 

Sign up today and we’ll invite you to a virtual orientation to learn all about changing lives as a volunteer!
 

Start Saving Lives

Join TEAM PAWS Chicago 2025

Our 2025 TEAM PAWS Chicago registration is now open! TEAM PAWS is the largest local charity team in the Bank of America Chicago Marathon. Run for a worthy cause—saving homeless pets—while enjoying a GUARANTEED race entry and race weekend perks such as a welcome party, swag for you and your supporters, and the ultimate race day party with gear check, massages, medal engraving, and more! 
 

Run for a Cause

Intern with PAWS Chicago

Applications for our Spring Internships are now open! Gain valuable experience in animal welfare and nonprofit work, earn academic credit, and cuddle a few pets along the way. Applications close November 15
 

Internship Applications

Howloween Dog Costume Party at Andros Taverna

Get ready for a howling good time at the fourth annual Howloween Dog Costume Party on Sunday, October 27, at Andros Taverna! Bring your furry friends dressed in their spookiest or silliest costumes for a chance to strut their stuff. Then, spoil them with goodies from the special pup menu and festive treats, plus a fun raffle with prizes galore! A portion of the proceeds will benefit PAWS Chicago, so you can enjoy a day of fun while helping pets in need.

Ask PAWS: How can I help feral cats this winter?

As winter approaches, the challenges faced by feral cats become increasingly severe. Harsh weather conditions, including freezing temperatures and heavy snowfall, can put these resilient animals at risk for hypothermia, frostbite, and starvation. Helping feral cats during this time is crucial, not only for their survival but also for the health of local ecosystems.  

In addition to participating in our TNR program, which offers free or subsidized spay and neuter surgeries to curb overpopulation, one of the most effective ways to assist feral cats in winter is by providing shelters. Simple structures, such as insulated wooden boxes or plastic bins lined with straw, can offer a safe haven from the cold. These shelters should be placed in quiet, sheltered areas to protect the cats from wind and predators. Adding a flap to the entrance can help keep out drafts while allowing the cats easy access.   
 

Learn More

Paradise for Tiki

Tiki arrived to us skittish and scared, but after shedding the source of her pain she found paradise with her new family. 
 

Tiki's Journey to Paradise

Thank you for all you do to save the lives of homeless pets, 
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Our mailing address is:
1997 N Clybourn Ave, Chicago, IL 60614

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