FAQ
How does CAA use its resources to help animals?
With no paid staff, no overhead costs, and minimal spending, CAA focuses its resources on impactful advocacy, proving that a small, dedicated team can make a big difference for animals.
If the law is on your side, why do animal rights take so much effort?
Government officials have the power to stop animal abuse, or create their own loopholes.
Animals are most at risk of being exploited for profit and entertainment. It's easy to turn a blind eye when your neighbor is so different from you (and out of view). All sentient beings feel pain and deserve to live free from harm.
Tools for Protecting Animals
🧸 How to Responsibly Rehome a Pet If you can no longer care for your pet, rehoming can be done ethically — but it takes more than a Craigslist ad. Best practices: Ask friends, family, and local rescue networks first Use reputable platforms like Rehome by Adopt-a-Pet, or work with a trusted rescue Never give animals away for free without vetting — some people exploit or resell animals Avoid: “Open-door” shelters or groups that don’t screen adopters Facilities that won’t let you visit in person
🏡 How to Identify a True Animal Sanctuary Not all sanctuaries are created equal. A true sanctuary puts the animals’ needs first and never uses them for profit or entertainment. Before Relinquishing a Pet to a Sanctuary: Always visit the facility first. Ask to see the animals and ensure the space is clean, the animals are healthy and well cared for, and the staff is transparent. Look for sanctuaries that are: Accredited by legitimate organizations like the Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries (GFAS) Transparent about their funding, policies, and veterinary care Committed to non-exploitation, meaning they don’t breed, sell, or allow public handling of animals
❌ What to Avoid When Supporting “Animal Attractions” Many roadside zoos, aquariums, and animal “encounters” exploit animals under the guise of conservation. Red flags include: Allowing direct interaction with wild animals (petting, selfies, feeding) Breeding animals for display or entertainment Keeping animals in small, unnatural enclosures When in doubt, don’t buy a ticket. Support true sanctuaries and nature preserves instead.
📢 Smart Advocacy: What Actually Makes a Difference Feeling helpless is common — but your voice matters. You can take daily action in under two minutes. Examples of high-impact actions: Contacting lawmakers about bills (like fur bans) Supporting bans on animal testing, fur sales, or circus use of animals Participating in & sharing Daily Easy Actions (DEAs) Peacefully protesting or leafleting with a local group Educating others through social media and respectful conversations
🧠 Common Myths About “Helping Animals” Not all help helps. Some well-meaning actions can actually cause harm. Here’s what to watch for: MYTH: "Exotic animal sanctuaries always help animals." FACT: Many are unregulated and exploit animals for profit. Always vet them carefully. MYTH: "It's fine if I visit an aquarium or zoo because they teach kids about animals." FACT: Many of these facilities prioritize entertainment over welfare. Kids can learn through documentaries, books, and real-life rescues. MYTH: "If someone rescues animals, they must be a good person." FACT: Some people hoard animals or operate under the radar. Even “rescues” can cause harm without oversight.
What Should I Know Before Getting a Dog—Or Any Animal Companion? At CAA, we always encourage adopting from shelters or reputable rescue groups, not buying from pet stores. The Chicago area has a strong network of trusted shelters and rescues that work hard to match animals with loving homes—including not just dogs and cats, but sometimes rabbits, turtles, guinea pigs, birds, and other animals who need care and commitment. Choosing adoption means you're not supporting cruelty, and you're giving an animal a second chance. It’s better for the animals—and better for our communities.