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Puppies and dogs in Sullivan, Illinois

Looking for a puppy or dog in Sullivan, Illinois? Adopt a Pet can help you find a new best friend near you.

A pair of dogs

Adopt a dog in Sullivan, Illinois

These adorable dogs are available for adoption in Sullivan, Illinois. To learn more about each adoptable dog, click on the "i" icon for fast facts, or their photo or name for full details.
Photo of Denim

Denim

Yorkie, Yorkshire Terrier

Male, 3 mos
Decatur, IL
Size
(when grown) Small 25 lbs (11 kg) or less
Details
Good with kids, Good with dogs, Shots are up-to-date,
Story
Denim Applications at leiashope.org Located in Decatur, IL Denim is an adorable Yorkie puppy who was born in our care on May 2, 2026. He is a happy little guy who is perfectly content just being part of the fun—and part of the family! Denim is quite the little gentleman and has learned to “mand” when he wants attention. He will sit politely and wait…but only for a few seconds. If you don’t respond quickly enough, he is soon jumping against your leg to make it perfectly clear that he is done asking nicely! He is sweet, tender-hearted and sensitive, but he also has a playful and rowdy side. Denim enjoys playing with his brother, chasing feet and carrying around rope toys. Like most puppies, he still believes fingers, toes and moving feet make excellent playthings. Puppy teeth are sharp, so his adopter should be prepared to continue working with him on appropriate puppy play, chewing and manners. When the excitement is over, Denim is an affectionate little snuggler. One of his favorite places is curled up close to your neck. He is also able to settle himself when he is tired and will happily put himself to bed in a puppy pen or curl up in a dog bed. Denim has been raised using Puppy Culture and has been introduced to different people, places, sounds, surfaces and experiences while growing up in foster care. He is a smart puppy with a wonderful foundation, but his training and socialization will need to continue as he matures. We strongly encourage his adopter to continue with Puppy Culture’s next program, With Open Arms and a Level Head. Preference will be given to a home where Denim will have a playmate, whether that is children or a young, playful dog. He enjoys being part of the activity and would not be happy spending long days alone. Like all puppies, he needs frequent potty breaks, supervision, continued training and plenty of appropriate outlets for his energy. Denim is currently eating a combination of raw, freeze-dried raw and air-dried food. His adopter should be willing to continue providing a high-quality diet and make any future food changes gradually. Denim has his natural tail and an underbite. He is microchipped and current on his age-appropriate vaccines and veterinary care. Because of his age and size, Denim has not yet been neutered. His adopter will be responsible for having the procedure completed at the appropriate age. Leia’s Hope Canine Rescue will provide a credit directly to the adopter’s veterinarian to help with the cost of his neuter. We are a volunteer ran rescue and all our dogs are in foster homes. Please allow 7-10 business days for processing applications. A puppy is a commitment that may last 15 years or longer. Applicants should carefully consider the time, expense, training and lifestyle changes involved in raising a puppy before applying. Denim is located in Decatur, Illinois. Applicants must be willing to travel to Decatur. We do not transport or ship dogs. Those flying must bring Denim home with them in the airplane cabin; he will not be permitted to travel in cargo. Leia’s Hope Canine Rescue is a foster-based, volunteer-run rescue. An approved application is required before meet-and-greets. Applying does not guarantee adoption, and applications are reviewed to find the home that is the best fit for each individual dog. Additional adoption information and applications can be found at leiashope.org.
Photo of Valor

Valor

King Charles Spaniel

Male, 4 yrs 3 mos
Decatur, IL
Size
(when grown) Small 25 lbs (11 kg) or less
Details
Good with dogs, Spayed or Neutered, Shots are up-to-date,
Story
Valor is a 4 year old male Blenheim Cavalier located in Decatur, IL. He is a sweet, gentle boy with a soft heart and a serious love for cuddles, attention, and affection. Cavaliers are known for being affectionate, people-oriented companion dogs, and Valor is showing that he fits that description. He is being fostered in a home with other dogs and he is gradually learning how to share space, toys and attention with them. Once everyone is sitting or laying down, Valor quickly searches for his person and will beg to be picked up so he can cuddle close. He has been a little vocal and protective of foster mom so she is working on acclimating him to his foster dad by having him feed him and let him inside and outside. He needs time to understand he is safe and does not need to fear men. He has not been around kids in his foster home. After watching his interactions over the past few weeks, we feel it would be best for Valor to be placed in a home with a non-reactive dog. His resource guarding is a manageable behavior that will need to be worked on for safety and harmony in his home. This doesn't make him unlovable-far from it! It just means his ideal home understands mill dog typical behavior and traits and sets him up for success with structure and individual attention. Valor has a couple soft toys he likes, and bones are slowly being introduced to him for chewing and enrichment. He does like to follow his person around, and can get underfoot. We are requiring a canine companion who won’t mind being followed everywhere, to help him learn how to be a dog and continue on his journey. An adopter with mill dog experience would be preferred. Leash training will start this week in slow segments in a fenced in yard. He hasn't been the biggest fan of a leash in the time he has been in rescue. We will give him time to adapt and trust before going on small walks. He will require a secure physical fenced yard for his own safety and security. Cavaliers are typically gentle, affectionate, soft-natured dogs who thrive on companionship, routine, and a calm home. They are not a breed that enjoys being ignored or left out of family life, and Valor will do best with someone who wants a close little companion. He is doing well with crate training at night for sleeping and short periods of time during the day. However, if you wanted him to sleep with you at night, he would gladly welcome that! He is wearing a belly band while inside as he works on potty training and learning when and where it is appropriate to go. Overall, he is a good boy and quickly showing that he knows what those big brown Cavalier eyes are for-begging, begging and more begging!, Valor's adoption fee is $400. He is neutered, microchipped, current on vaccines, and has received a dental. His teeth are in great condition and only required a cleaning. We are a volunteer ran rescue and all of our dogs are in foster homes. Applications can take 7–10 business days to process. We only do meet and greets with an approved application. All family members, including dogs, must be present at the meet and greet. Meets and adoptions are done at the dog’s location. Please be sure to read the Facts and Questions section on our website before applying. Applications can be found at leiashope.org.
Special Needs
Photo of Chevron

Chevron

Shih Tzu

Male, 5 yrs
Decatur, IL
Size
(when grown) Small 25 lbs (11 kg) or less
Details
Good with dogs, Good with cats, Needs special attention, Needs experienced adopter, Spayed or Neutered, Shots are up-to-date,
Story
Chevron – 4–5 Year Old Shih Tzu Located in Decatur, IL leiashope.org Chevron is a joyful little Shih Tzu who is learning just how wonderful life can be as a beloved pet. After surviving life in a puppy mill, he is discovering cozy beds, loving people, and the simple happiness of carrying his favorite toy around the house like a prized treasure. He proudly shows it off to his foster mom as if to say, “Look what I have!” True to his Shih Tzu nature, Chevron’s favorite place to be is right near his person. He loves to stretch out in a perfect little sploot with his back legs behind him, snores sweetly while he sleeps, and flashes the most adorable underbite that makes everyone smile. He enjoys playing with other dogs and often curls up with a buddy in a dog bed for a nap. Chevron does have a couple small medical quirks that don’t slow him down. One of his eyes sits slightly more prominent due to a shallow orbital socket diagnosed by the vet. He also has mild dry eye and currently receives an over-the-counter eye moisturizer a few times a day. The drops are inexpensive, and he is very cooperative about taking them. As he ages, he may eventually require prescription eye drops, but for now he seems to understand that his medications help him feel better. At bedtime, Chevron prefers to sleep near his person. If he can’t share the bed, he does best sleeping in a crate in the same room. When crated alone, he will bark most of the night—and no one gets any rest! Being close to his people helps him feel secure. Chevron will require routine grooming every six weeks with brushing in between appointments. He is very good for brushing and grooming. His eyes should also be gently wiped daily to keep them clean and comfortable. Chevron’s adoption fee is $400. He is neutered, microchipped, current on vaccines, recently received a dental, and takes monthly heartworm prevention. We are a volunteer-run rescue and all of our dogs are cared for in foster homes. Please allow 7–10 business days for application processing. Meet and greets are scheduled only after an application is approved and take place at the dog’s location. All family members, including resident dogs, must attend. We do not provide transport, and adopters must travel to the dog’s location for adoption. If flying, the dog must ride in the cabin. Adopters should be prepared to love and care for Chevron for the remainder of his life—8+ wonderful years ahead. Applications at leiashope.org. Located in Decatur, IL.
Photo of Starling

Starling

Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

Female, 6 yrs 2 mos
Decatur, IL
Size
(when grown) Small 25 lbs (11 kg) or less
Details
Good with kids, Good with dogs, Needs experienced adopter, Spayed or Neutered, Shots are up-to-date,
Story
applications at leiashope.org Starling is a 6 year old female Cavalier located in Decatur, IL. Starling is a sweet, gentle girl with a soft heart and a serious love for cuddles. Cavaliers are known for being affectionate, people-oriented companion dogs, and Starling fits that loving, snuggly nature beautifully. She absolutely loves kids, but like many former breeder dogs, she may be skittish at first if they walk directly toward her. Once everyone is sitting or laying down, Starling is all in and will beg to be picked up so she can cuddle close. Starling loves her stuffy toys and has the perfect couch potato vibe. Cavaliers are often happiest just being near their people, and Starling is very much a little shadow. She likes to follow her person around, but she does not get underfoot. She also needs a canine companion who won’t mind being followed everywhere, because Starling feels safest and happiest with another dog by her side. Starling hates leashes. Actually, she detests them. They terrify her, so she will require a secure physical fenced yard. She does not enjoy confinement and is not much of a barker unless she is really scared. Cavaliers are typically gentle, affectionate, soft-natured dogs who thrive on companionship, routine, and a calm home. They are not a breed that enjoys being ignored or left out of family life, and Starling will do best with someone who wants a close little companion. She is kinda perfect for a couch potato kind of vibe, as long as she has her people, her doggy friend, and a safe fenced yard. Starling’s adoption fee is $325. She is spayed, microchipped, current on vaccines, and has received a dental. She does not have all of her teeth, but she has enough to eat just fine. We are a volunteer ran rescue and all of our dogs are in foster homes. Applications can take 7–10 business days to process. We only do meet and greets with an approved application. All family members, including dogs, must be present at the meet and greet. Meets and adoptions are done at the dog’s location. Please be sure to read the Facts and Questions section on our website before applying. Applications can be found at leiashope.org.
Photo of Carolina Red

Carolina Red

Shih Tzu

Female, 1 yr 5 mos
Decatur, IL
Size
(when grown) Small 25 lbs (11 kg) or less
Details
Good with kids, Good with dogs, Spayed or Neutered, Shots are up-to-date,
Story
applications at leiashope.org Located in Decatur, IL Carolina Red is a sweet little Shih Tzu weighing around 10 pounds, and her constantly wagging tail tells you everything you need to know about her happy spirit. She came into rescue pregnant and delivered her first — and only — litter with us. She was a devoted mama, and now it’s finally her turn to be someone’s baby. In the beginning, Carolina was unsure about being picked up or receiving attention. When nervous, she would pancake to the floor and sometimes tinkle. She has grown tremendously in her foster home since October and no longer tinkles when she feels safe — only occasionally if something is brand new (a new person or unfamiliar place). It is important to understand that she will likely go through a similar adjustment period in her adoptive home as she learns that she is safe there, too. Carolina absolutely loves attention and is very affectionate with her foster mom. At bedtime, she prefers to sleep right next to her and will make sure to get up close — sometimes nose-to-nose — to collect a proper round of love and pets before drifting off. Once she feels secure, her personality truly shines. She is silly, sassy, vocal, loving, and very playful. She adores toys, especially squeaky ones. She’ll proudly carry them around in her mouth, squeaking as she goes like she’s announcing her latest treasure. Carolina is great with other dogs and enjoys both quiet companionship and playful fun. She is often found curled up beside another dog in a shared bed, but she also loves to chase, wrestle, and roll around with her canine friends. A young, playful canine companion would be ideal for her. She has also been good with children and enjoys being part of a lively, loving household. Carolina rides fairly well in the car, though she does get a bit anxious and prefers to sit in your lap for reassurance. A doggy car seat may help her feel more secure. She is crate trained and does well when her person is away, but she does not like being crated alone. Carolina came from a puppy mill, though you might hardly know it. The one place her past still shows is when a man begins to speak — this can make her anxious. We believe this is something she can continue to work through with time, patience, and positive experiences, but it’s important that adopters understand this sensitivity. She does not know how to walk on a leash, so a secure physical fenced yard is required for her safety. Carolina will also need regular brushing and professional grooming every 6 weeks to keep her coat healthy and comfortable. Carolina is a happy little dog with a tender heart. With patience, consistency, and love, she will continue blossoming into the confident, joyful companion she was always meant to be. Carolina’s adoption fee is $400. She is spayed, microchipped, and current on vaccines. She is located in Decatur, IL. Applications can be found at leiashope.org. We are a foster-based, volunteer-run rescue. Please allow 7–10 business days for applications to be processed. An approved application is required before meet and greets. All family members must be present, and adopters must travel to Decatur to meet and adopt—no transportation is provided. Carolina is a young lady with many wonderful years ahead of her and is looking for a family ready to commit to her lifetime of love, estimated at 12+ years. Carolina’s adoption fee is $400. She is spayed, microchipped, and current on vaccines. She is located in Decatur, IL. Applications can be found at leiashope.org. We are a foster-based, volunteer-run rescue. Please allow 7–10 business days for applications to be processed. An approved application is required before meet and greets. All family members must be present, and adopters must travel to Decatur to meet and adopt—no transportation is provided. Carolina is a young lady with many wonderful years ahead of her and is looking for a family ready to commit to her lifetime of love, estimated at 12+ years.
Special Needs
Photo of Sweetie Pie

Sweetie Pie

Bernedoodle

Female, 4 yrs 10 mos
Decatur, IL
Size
(when grown) Small 25 lbs (11 kg) or less
Details
Good with dogs, Needs special attention, Needs experienced adopter, Spayed or Neutered, Shots are up-to-date,
Story
Meet Sweetie Pie – a gentle soul ready for a second chance at life. For the first four years of her life, Sweetie Pie lived in a puppy mill—confined, ignored, and denied the simple joys every dog deserves. She didn’t know soft beds, kind hands, or what it meant to feel safe. But despite it all, she is trying… slowly, bravely, and beautifully. Since starting fluoxetine about a year ago, Sweetie Pie has begun to come out of her shell in the most heartwarming ways. She’s more engaged with her foster family and the other dogs in the home. She now jumps up on the bed, welcomes gentle pets on the couch, and even cuddles with her fosters and her canine companions. She enjoys exploring the yard, occasionally joins in playful chases with the other dogs, and happily chews on bones inside. Her tail is almost always up and wagging, and she’s beginning to reveal a silly and loving personality. Walks are becoming enjoyable too—she still needs to be in her crate to get her leash clipped on, but she’s learning. While Sweetie Pie is still cautious around new people and sudden noises, the progress she’s made is remarkable. She may not yet run to you for affection, but her trust is growing every day. Her ideal home includes: A calm, patient environment A gentle, confident dog who can guide her A secure physical fenced yard (non-negotiable) A family committed to continuing her progress at her pace Experience with mill dogs is a plus, but not required for the right match. What matters most is understanding, empathy, and a willingness to let her set the pace. Sweetie Pie’s journey won’t be fast—but it will be worth it. With love and consistency, she will reward you with the sweetest, quietest kind of trust. 💗 Adoption Fee: $400 She is spayed, microchipped, up to date on vaccines, and on monthly heartworm and flea prevention. 📍 Located in Decatur, IL 📝 Apply at leiashope.org to learn more about our adoption process. 🚨 PLEASE NOTE: We are a volunteer-run rescue. Applications take 7–10 days to process. All dogs are in foster homes; meet-and-greets are scheduled after approval. We do not ship or transport dogs—you must travel to the dog’s location. All family members (human and canine) must be present at the meet. Dogs are a lifetime commitment—please apply only if you’re ready for that promise.

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Dog shelters and rescues in Sullivan, Illinois

There are animal shelters and rescues that focus specifically on finding great homes for dogs in Sullivan, Illinois. Browse these rescues and shelters below.

Here are a few organizations closest to you:

Shelter

Coles County Animal Shelter

6818 North County Road 1120 East., Charleston, IL 61938

Pet Types: cats, dogs, farm animals, small animals

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Rescue

Genesis Animal Rescue and Rehabilitation Charity Inc

PO Box 1985, Mattoon, IL 61938

Pet Types: cats, dogs

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Rescue

A Ferals Hope & Friends

Mattoon, IL 61938

Pet Types: cats, dogs

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Shelter

Shelby County Animal Control Facility

120 S Morgan, Shelbyville, IL 62565

Pet Types: cats, dogs

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Shelter

Shelby Humane Society, Inc.

1309 W. S. 7th, Shelbyville, IL 62565

Pet Types: cats, dogs

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Shelter

Douglas County Animal Control

1007 E South Central, PO Box 192, Tuscola, IL 61953

Pet Types: cats, dogs

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Rescue

The Animal House71207

701 E Buckner, Tuscola, IL 61953

Pet Types: cats, birds, dogs, rabbits, reptiles, small animals

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Rescue

Humane Society of Decatur and Macon County

3373 N. Woodford St., Decatur, IL 62526

Pet Types: cats, dogs

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Rescue

IL English Bulldog Rescue

Decatur, IL 62526

Pet Types: dogs

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