Dogs for Adoption in Monticello, IL: 20 Dogs Looking for a Home
81 dogs and puppies are waiting for homes at 5 rescues and shelters within 50 miles of Monticello. Here are the 20 nearest, each with photos, their story and how to reach the rescue looking after them.
Of the dogs up for adoption within 50 miles of Monticello, 3 puppies, 22 young dogs, 49 adults and 1 senior. The breeds you'll see most are Pit Bull Terrier, Chihuahua and Poodle, along with plenty of one-of-a-kind mixes.
Not in Monticello? Find dogs near your zip code.
1. Golden Jet
This sweet guy gets along with other dogs. Cats unknown. He is shy at first and will need a few days to warm up to you. But once he knows you, he will lay in your arms like a baby for belly scratches. He is good in a crate. He will need a fenced in yard as he is not used to being on a leash and a home without small children.
- No young kids
- Good with dogs
2. Boone
Boone doesn't see the world very well but his heart is full of love. He loves greeting everyone with a tail wag. He is not a lap dog and prefers to move around. He is great with children and does well with other dogs. Please consider giving a senior like Boone a home! He will bring you joy.
3. Atticus
Atticus has his nose to the floor, always looking for that morsel or crumb that was dropped. He is 12+ years old, his vision and hearing are not great, but he can get around really well. He loves to be held once he knows you’re there. If you have a quiet home and a big heart for seniors, why not adopt Atticus and give him the love in his golden years that he deserves.
- Good with dogs
4. Maggie
Maggie is a sweet, sweet senior that is so deserving of a home to live out her golden years. She is deaf, loves to be held and have her ears scratched, and rides well in a car. She is good with other dogs and was pee pad trained. Her foster is working to train her to go potty outside. She does take a thyroid medicine which doesn't cost alot at all.
Don't pass up this sweet senior!
- Good with dogs
5. August
This sweet boy is looking for a place to call home and people to love. He loves
ALL people
and would be happiest as the only pet in the household, where he can soak up all the attention for himself, no cats either he says. He’s Looking for a family who will give him the love, attention, and forever home he deserves.
He may not be the right fit for a home with other pets, but for the right person or family, he could be the perfect companion!
- Only dog
- No cats
- House-trained
6. Stormy
Superboy Stormy is such a cool pup! A tall boy, true to his mom’s breed (Anatolian Shepherd) but his dad must have been a mix of smaller breeds, he won’t be a giant breed but definitely has the intelligence and human love all shepherds do! He is learning so much so quickly in his foster home and meeting so many new people, pets and exploring new places. He’s quite the adventurer and thrives in it! Stormy is crate trained and minds his manners very well in the house. His new home will need another dog for companionship as he has always had one and as a growing puppy he would love a job to keep his mind busy too. He loves children and completely ignores the kitties. Stormy is an all around great pup, ready for his forever!
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
- Good with cats
- House-trained
7. Lady
Meet Lady – Your One-and-Only Princess!
Lady is a 5-year-old, 38-pound Cocker Spaniel who has a whole lot of love and personality to offer. She's house and crate trained, good with cats, and an all-around wonderful companion. Friendly, outgoing, happy, playful, and loyal, Lady is the kind of girl who makes it easy to fall in love.
Read more about Lady
She's always up for an adventure, whether it's going for walks, riding in the car, or enjoying some time in the yard. Throw in a game of fetch, and you've found her happy place! She loves her toys, too, especially her favorite Subaru car toy. And when playtime is over, she's more than happy to settle in for some cuddles.
Lady has also done wonderfully around children of different ages, including an 18-month-old and a 5-year-old who played ball with her. She's been a great family companion, but there is one thing she wants to make clear: she would prefer to be the only dog in the home. Lady wants to be your one and only princess, and she's perfectly happy keeping all that love to herself!
Lady is carrying some extra weight, so she'll need a family committed to helping her reach and maintain a healthier weight through appropriate exercise and nutrition.
Honestly, Lady has so much going for her. She's sweet, fun, affectionate, and ready to be someone's very special girl. Whoever welcomes this amazing lady home is getting one heck of a companion!
Her minimum adoption fee is $400 plus a $15 fee, if 4 months or older, for rabies registration for McLean County residents.
She has been spayed, microchipped, vaccinated, heartworm checked, dewormed, and is on flea and heartworm preventatives.
For information about this dog's breed(s), visit:
http://www.dogbreedinfo.com/abc.htm
To fill out our adoption application, go to:
http://fs16.formsite.com/WishBoneCanineRescue/adoptionapplication/index.html
- Good with kids
- Only dog
- Good with cats
- House-trained
8. Monica
Meet Monica – A Little Girl Looking for a Safe Place to Land
Monica is a 1-year-old, 9-pound Chihuahua mix with a sweet heart and a world that still feels a little overwhelming. She's a very shy, skittish girl who is slowly learning to trust, and she'll need someone willing to give her the time and patience she needs to feel safe.
Monica does show glimpses of a playful side, sometimes acting like she'd love to join in the fun before her nerves get the best of her. She's still finding her confidence, but with a gentle approach and a predictable routine, she may begin to discover just how enjoyable life can be.
Read more about Monica
An adult-only, quiet home will likely be the best fit for Monica. She's also a flight risk, so a secure fenced yard is a must, along with extra precautions around open doors and any potential escape routes.
Monica isn't going to be an instant best friend, but she's worth getting to know. She's looking for a special adopter who understands that trust takes time and will let her blossom at her own pace.
Her minimum adoption fee is $300 plus a $15 fee, if 4 months or older, for rabies registration for McLean County residents.
She has been spayed, microchipped, vaccinated, heartworm checked, dewormed, and is on flea and heartworm preventatives.
For information about this dog's breed(s), visit:
http://www.dogbreedinfo.com/abc.htm
To fill out our adoption application, go to:
http://fs16.formsite.com/WishBoneCanineRescue/adoptionapplication/index.html
9. Rachel
Meet Rachel – A Shy Girl with a Playful Side
Rachel is a 1-year-old, 10-pound Chihuahua mix who is still learning that the world isn't such a scary place. She's a sweet, sensitive girl who needs a little time to warm up, but she's already showing glimpses of the personality hiding beneath her nervous exterior.
Read more about Rachel
She's just a touch more outgoing than her friends Phoebe and Monica. Rachel sometimes acts like she's ready to play, only to change her mind and make a quick getaway! She's also willing to accept treats, and I even got a little kiss from her during our time together. Those small moments are a big deal for a girl who's still learning to trust.
Rachel will need a patient, understanding adopter who can let her settle in at her own pace. A quiet, adult-only home will likely be the best fit. She's also a flight risk, so a secure fenced yard is required, along with extra care around doors and other potential escape routes.
Rachel may take a little time to come out of her shell, but every treat accepted, kiss given, and playful moment is a step in the right direction. She's looking for someone who will celebrate those little victories and give her the safe, loving home she deserves.
Her minimum adoption fee is $300 plus a $15 fee, if 4 months or older, for rabies registration for McLean County residents.
She has been spayed, microchipped, vaccinated, heartworm checked, dewormed, and is on flea and heartworm preventatives.
For information about this dog's breed(s), visit:
http://www.dogbreedinfo.com/abc.htm
To fill out our adoption application, go to:
http://fs16.formsite.com/WishBoneCanineRescue/adoptionapplication/index.html
10. Phoebe
Meet Phoebe – A Little Girl Who Needs a Little Extra Love
Phoebe is a 3-year-old, 11-pound Chihuahua mix with a tender heart and a world that still feels a little too big and scary. She's a very frightened girl who will need time, patience, and understanding to learn that she's safe and that she can trust the people around her.
Phoebe will need a calm, adult-only home with an adopter who understands that earning her trust won't happen overnight. She is also a flight risk, so a secure, fenced yard is a must. Her family will need to be especially careful around open doors and take extra precautions to keep her safe.
Read more about Phoebe
Phoebe may not be the kind of dog who immediately runs up to greet you, but with the right person willing to go at her pace, she has the opportunity to discover a much happier, more confident life. She deserves someone who will give her the time and space to blossom.
Her minimum adoption fee is $300 plus a $15 fee, if 4 months or older, for rabies registration for McLean County residents.
She has been spayed, microchipped, vaccinated, heartworm checked, dewormed, and is on flea and heartworm preventatives.
For information about this dog's breed(s), visit:
http://www.dogbreedinfo.com/abc.htm
To fill out our adoption application, go to:
http://fs16.formsite.com/WishBoneCanineRescue/adoptionapplication/index.html
11. Chewy
Meet Chewy – A Big Boy with an Even Bigger Personality!
At 4 years old and 75 pounds, Chewy is a big, lovable Labradoodle Mix who isn't afraid to show his affection. He's super friendly, loves giving hugs, and has a happy-go-lucky personality that makes him hard not to smile around.
Chewy has a silly side, too! He seems to know “sit” when treats are involved and is happy to show off his skills for a tasty reward. He's still a bit of a goofball, but that's all part of his charm.
If you're looking for a big, affectionate companion with plenty of personality and hugs to share, Chewy might just be your guy!
Read more about Chewy
His minimum adoption fee is $300 plus a $15 fee, if 4 months or older, for rabies registration for McLean County residents.
He has been neutered, microchipped, vaccinated, heartworm checked, dewormed, and is on flea and heartworm preventatives.
For information about this dog's breed(s), visit:
http://www.dogbreedinfo.com/abc.htm
To fill out our adoption application, go to:
http://fs16.formsite.com/WishBoneCanineRescue/adoptionapplication/index.html
12. Bernice
Meet Bernice — a Shy Sweetheart Ready to Bloom
Bernice is a gentle, shy girl who shows her sweetness right away. She is a 2 year old Bernese Mountain Dog who weighs 56 lbs. She’s reportedly dogfriendly, though she hasn’t been tested with other dogs in our care yet. Even so, her soft nature suggests she’ll navigate new friendships with patience and calm.
She may be reserved at first, but Bernice warms up quickly — especially if you have treats. With a little time, kindness, and consistency, she’s easy to win over and eager to show her friendly side.
Read more about Bernice
Bernice is the kind of dog who will thrive with someone who understands that shy dogs often become the most loyal companions. With lots of love and a little patience, she’s sure to blossom into a wonderful, devoted partner.
If you’re looking for a sweet, gentle girl who just needs a safe place to come out of her shell, Bernice might be the perfect match.
Her minimum adoption fee is $400 plus a $15 fee, if 4 months or older, for rabies registration for McLean County residents.
She has been spayed, microchipped, vaccinated, heartworm checked, dewormed, and is on flea and heartworm preventatives.
For information about this dog's breed(s), visit:
http://www.dogbreedinfo.com/abc.htm
To fill out our adoption application, go to:
http://fs16.formsite.com/WishBoneCanineRescue/adoptionapplication/index.html
13. Splooty
Meet Splooty! This 2-year-old, 15-pound tri-color possible Beagle/Dachshund mix is ready to find her forever family. After a rough start in a hoarding situation, Splooty found her way to Wish Bone and has blossomed into a sweet and playful young lady. She is a curious explorer who loves chasing balls, playing with toys, and sniffing her way through daily walks. She gets along well with other small dogs and, while a little shy at first with new humans, she warms up quickly to reveal her affectionate heart.
Read more about Splooty
Ideal Home: Splooty loves being part of the pack! She prefers to sleep in the bedroom with her humans and resident dogs.
Training Progress: She is currently working hard on her housetraining and will do best with a patient family who can keep her on a consistent routine.
Crate Manners: She prefers open spaces over the crate and will let you know with a few vocal reminders if she feels confined.
If you are looking for a fun-sized, 15-pound companion, Splooty might be your perfect match!
Her minimum adoption fee is $300 plus a $15 rabies registration fee for McLean County residents.
She has been spayed, microchipped, vaccinated, heartworm checked, dewormed, and is on flea and heartworm preventatives.
For information about this dog's breed(s), visit: http://www.dogbreedinfo.com/abc.htm
To fill out our adoption application, go to: http://fs16.formsite.com/WishBoneCanineRescue/adoptionapplication/index.html
- Good with dogs
14. Plum
Meet Plum!
Plum is a 1 year old Beagle mix who weighs 12 lbs. Plum is a sensitive, sweet-natured girl who came into rescue with her sister, Pear, though they’re not required to be adopted together. Plum is the more nervous of the two, and she’s looking for a calm, patient home that understands how to help a shy dog blossom.
A confident, friendly dog in the home is highly recommended—having a steady role model will help Plum feel safe, learn to socialize, and settle into her new environment. Because she’s still building confidence, we’re also asking for a secure fenced yard where she can explore and decompress without pressure.
Read more about Plum
Plum will do best in a home with no children or older kids who truly understand nervous dogs and can give her the space she needs. With time, gentle support, and the right canine companion, Plum has every chance to grow into a comfortable, happy member of the family.
She’s a tender soul who just needs the right environment to feel safe and shine.
Her minimum adoption fee is $300 plus a $15 fee, if 4 months or older, for rabies registration for McLean County residents.
She has been spayed, microchipped, vaccinated, heartworm checked, dewormed, and is on flea and heartworm preventatives.
For information about this dog's breed(s), visit:
http://www.dogbreedinfo.com/abc.htm
To fill out our adoption application, go to:
http://fs16.formsite.com/WishBoneCanineRescue/adoptionapplication/index.html
15. Sweet Tart
Sweet Tart is a 1-year-old Dachshund mix who tips the scales at just 8.5 pounds. She's a little sweet and a little tart, but that's only because this tiny girl is scared and still figuring out the world around her. She needs an adult-only home, a secure, fenced yard, and a patient adopter who will give her time to decompress, learn about life as a family dog, and discover what it means to be loved. A confident canine companion may help her adjust, too.
Read more about Sweet Tart
Sweet Tart needs someone willing to let her blossom at her own pace and show her that life can be pretty sweet. Her adoption fee is $300, plus a $15 rabies registration fee for McLean County residents if she is 4 months or older.
She has been spayed, microchipped, vaccinated, heartworm checked, dewormed, and is on flea and heartworm preventatives.
For information about this dog's breed(s), visit:
http://www.dogbreedinfo.com/abc.htm
To fill out our adoption application, go to:
http://fs16.formsite.com/WishBoneCanineRescue/adoptionapplication/index.html
16. Stan Lee
Stan Lee is a 2-year-old Beagle mix weighing about 22 pounds. He's a very scared boy who will need a patient adopter willing to give him time to decompress and adjust at his own pace. He needs an adult-only home and a secure, fenced yard. A confident canine companion may also help him feel more comfortable as he learns what it means to be a loved family member. Stan Lee needs someone who understands that trust takes time and is willing to let him find his confidence at his own speed.
His adoption fee is $300, plus a $15 rabies registration fee for McLean County residents if he is 4 months or older.
Read more about Stan Lee
He has been neutered, microchipped, vaccinated, heartworm checked, dewormed, and is on flea and heartworm preventatives.
For information about this dog's breed(s), visit:
http://www.dogbreedinfo.com/abc.htm
To fill out our adoption application, go to:
http://fs16.formsite.com/WishBoneCanineRescue/adoptionapplication/index.html
17. Olaf
Olaf is a 4-year-old Pomeranian mix weighing 10 pounds, with a happy, friendly personality and just a little bit of sass to keep things interesting! This little guy has plenty of personality packed into his small frame and is ready to find a family to call his own.
Olaf already knows sit and is more than happy to show off his skills when there’s a tasty treat involved! He’s a smart boy who knows what he likes and isn’t afraid to let a little sass shine through. Olaf would likely do best with older, respectful children.
Read more about Olaf
If you’re looking for a small companion with a cheerful personality and a little extra spice, Olaf could be the perfect addition to your family!
His minimum adoption fee is $300 plus a $15 fee, if 4 months or older, for rabies registration for McLean County residents.
He has been neutered, microchipped, vaccinated, heartworm checked, dewormed, and is on flea and heartworm preventatives.
For information about this dog's breed(s), visit:
http://www.dogbreedinfo.com/abc.htm
To fill out our adoption application, go to:
http://fs16.formsite.com/WishBoneCanineRescue/adoptionapplication/index.html
18. Paco
Meet Paco, a 1½-year-old Chihuahua weighing just under 9 pounds, and don't let his tiny size fool you. This little man has BIG energy and an even bigger personality!
Paco may have been a bit shy when he first arrived, but he has really come out of his shell and discovered that life is much more fun when you're surrounded by friends, toys, and opportunities to be ridiculous. He absolutely LOVES playing with his dog buddies, especially Sprig and Ritz, and is always ready to join the fun.
Read more about Paco
Toys are another one of Paco's great loves. In fact, excitement over a toy may cause him to bounce straight up like he's got a tiny pogo stick hidden somewhere in those little legs. Energetic, silly, and happy-go-lucky, Paco is the kind of guy who knows how to keep life entertaining!
If you're looking for a fun-sized companion with a playful spirit and plenty of personality packed into a 9-pound package, Paco might just be your perfect little sidekick. Paco's minimum adoption fee is $300, plus a $15 rabies registration fee for McLean County residents if he is 4 months or older.
He has been neutered, microchipped, vaccinated, heartworm checked, dewormed, and is on flea and heartworm preventatives.
For information about this dog's breed(s), visit:
http://www.dogbreedinfo.com/abc.htm
To fill out our adoption application, go to:
http://fs16.formsite.com/WishBoneCanineRescue/adoptionapplication/index.html
- Good with dogs
19. Coraline
Meet Coraline, a sweet and sensitive Great Pyrenees mix puppy who is still figuring out this big, busy world! Born around July 9, 2026, and weighing about 19 pounds, Coraline is a tenderhearted little girl who sometimes needs a little extra reassurance when things feel scary.
Once she feels safe, Coraline is a happy, playful pup who loves toys, other dogs, hanging out in the yard, and, perhaps best of all, curling up in your lap for cuddles. She’s wonderful with the kids in her foster home, gets along with cats, and has been a quiet little companion. She also becomes quite attached to her person and loves following along to stay close.
Read more about Coraline
Coraline is still working on house-training and does great in her crate. Outdoor potty breaks can be tricky when every little noise catches her attention, so she’ll need a patient person who can help her build confidence at her own pace. Car rides aren't her favorite either, and they can make her a little carsick.
This little girl is looking for an experienced dog owner who understands that confidence doesn't happen overnight. With patience, gentle guidance, and someone she can trust to show her that the world isn't so scary, we think Coraline will blossom into a wonderful companion. She doesn't need a perfect world. She just needs the right person to help her feel safe in it.
Her minimum adoption fee is $350 plus a $15 fee, if 4 months or older, for rabies registration for McLean County residents.
She has been spayed, microchipped, vaccinated, heartworm checked, dewormed, and is on flea and heartworm preventatives.
For information about this dog's breed(s), visit:
http://www.dogbreedinfo.com/abc.htm
To fill out our adoption application, go to:
http://fs16.formsite.com/WishBoneCanineRescue/adoptionapplication/index.html
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
- Good with cats
20. Sigma
Meet Sigma – A Happy Little Guy
Sigma is a 4-year-old, 12-pound Yorkshire Terrier mix who may still have a few chapters of his story left to reveal. We’re still getting to know him, but his first impression was a great one.
When Sigma came out for photos, he was happy, friendly, and ready to enjoy some attention. He may be new to us, but his sweet personality was already shining through.
If you’re looking for a small companion with a cheerful spirit, come meet Sigma and help him show you just how special he is.
His minimum adoption fee is $300 plus a $15 fee, if 4 months or older, for rabies registration for McLean County residents.
He has been neutered, microchipped, vaccinated, heartworm checked, dewormed, and is on flea and heartworm preventatives.
For information about this dog's breed(s), visit: http://www.dogbreedinfo.com/abc.htm
To fill out our adoption application, go to: http://fs16.formsite.com/WishBoneCanineRescue/adoptionapplication/index.html
Rescues and shelters near Monticello
The rescues with the most dogs listed within 50 miles of Monticello.
- Wish Bone Canine RescueNormal, IL · 39 dogs · 40 mi from Monticello
How to adopt from Wish Bone Canine Rescue
Interview, match pet to person/family, check references, especially vet info. will always take animal back if doesn't work out.
- Macon County Animal Control and Care CenterDecatur, IL · 32 dogs · 24 mi from Monticello
- My Loveable Angelsbloomington, IL · 5 dogs · 38 mi from Monticello
How to adopt from My Loveable Angels
An interested adopter would fill out an adoption application and once approved, we arrange a meet with the animal's foster. We do reference checks and a home visit as part of our process. Our adoption fees do vary depending on age, medical conditions, being a purebred, etc. but for dogs the average between $175 and $275. For cats it is $40.
- Central Illinois Sheltie RescueTowanda, IL · 3 dogs · 40 mi from Monticello
How to adopt from Central Illinois Sheltie Rescue
Application, Reference checks, Home Visits Fees range from $0-$375 We have several programs for Seniors that we provide a dog at no cost.
- Genesis Animal RescueMattoon, IL · 2 dogs · 40 mi from Monticello
Adopting a dog in Monticello
Most rescues ask you to fill in an application, meet the dog, and pay an adoption fee that usually covers spaying or neutering, vaccinations and a microchip. Many are foster-based, so you'll often meet your dog in a volunteer's home rather than a shelter.
Senior dogs are often the calmest companions and the slowest to find homes. If you'd like a settled, affectionate dog, ask the rescues about their older residents.
Puppies go quickly, so if you've fallen for one, contact the rescue soon. Ask how big they're expected to grow, and plan for plenty of house-training and training in the first few months.
Questions about adopting a dog in Monticello
How many dogs are up for adoption in Monticello?
As of November 4, 2026, 81 dogs and puppies are listed for adoption within 50 miles of Monticello, Illinois, by 5 rescues and shelters. The list is updated every day.
Where can I adopt a dog in Monticello?
The rescues with the most dogs near Monticello right now are Wish Bone Canine Rescue (Normal, IL), Macon County Animal Control and Care Center (Decatur, IL) and My Loveable Angels (bloomington, IL). Each dog above has the rescue's phone number and website.
Are there puppies for adoption in Monticello?
Yes. 3 puppys are up for adoption within 50 miles of Monticello.
How do I adopt a dog in Monticello?
Pick a dog and contact the rescue or shelter looking after them. Most ask you to fill in an application, meet the dog, and pay an adoption fee that usually covers spaying or neutering, vaccinations and a microchip.
Listings are updated daily. Rescues are responsible for their own listings; a dog may have been adopted since this page was updated.