Heartland Animal Shelter has been saving lives of homeless pets since 2002.

Dr. Herbert Preiser, DVM and founder of Heartland Animal Shelter, wanted to make a difference by saving the lives of pets who might otherwise be euthanized due to overpopulation. Driven to make a change, Dr. Preiser opened Heartland Animal Shelter in October of 2002.

Heartland’s staff and volunteers are committed to giving our pets everything they need to be healthy and loved.

Heartland rescues pets from various situations and each pet arrives with their own unique needs. Some of our pets require medical care, some require emotional support, some require behavioral help, and all require good old TLC (Tender Loving Care). Heartland’s staff and volunteers are committed to giving our pets everything they need to be healthy, to be the best they can be, and most importantly to feel loved. Heartland asks for your support by spreading the word about the importance of why pets should be spayed or neutered in order to prevent overpopulation of cats and dogs. Together we can make a difference!

Our Mission

Heartland Animal Shelter provides excellent and life-saving care to the most  vulnerable dogs and cats until we find them good homes. Through progressive  programs, outreach, and collaborative partnerships, we also work to keep all companion animals with their families.

Our Vision

Heartland is building a humane community where pets and people thrive together in Chicagoland and beyond.

Our Values

Compassionate: We are compassionate members of our community who equally value serving our animal friends and their human guardians.

Community-oriented: We believe in cultivating a community-oriented approach with our stakeholders to provide a network of support, resources, and advocacy for homeless pets in need.

Respectful: We hold the value of respect as a cornerstone of our mission, ensuring that every interaction with our animals, staff, volunteers, and community reflects a deep consideration for the dignity and worth of all.

Collaborative: We work together and learn from each other to make Heartland the best it can be. We collaborate, listen, share ideas, and give/receive feedback in the spirit of continuous improvement.

Safe: We are committed to fostering a safe and fear-free environment for animals and humans alike. We model safe handling and minimize anxiety with humane and respectful treatment of the animals in our care.

Trustworthy: We create a foundation of trust by being transparent and accountable to all stakeholders. We honor our commitments and support one another with empathy and honesty.

Integrity: Our decisions, practices, and policies are shaped by the unwavering commitment to do what is right and ethical.

Our Partners