Barkapalooza is on September 28th at Lisle Community Park! The event includes: Rescue Run 5K, Food Truck Fest, Pet Contests, Rescue Groups, Artisan Market, 1-Mile Waggin' Tails Walk, Live Music, Pet Art, Wags-2-Riches Raffle, Paw-ticures, AND MORE!

Whether you prefer food trucks or running, making art with your pet or listening to local musicians, there really is something for everyone. We hope you will join us at Lisle Community Park for a pet-friendly and family friendly day of fun, and all for a great cause!

Here’s what’s happening when:

7AM - On-site Race Day check-in and Packet Pick Up Opens

8AM - Rescue Run 5K kicks off (chip-timed—race it or stroll it!)

9AM - Rescue Fest Opens: food trucks, games, vendors, rescue groups, activities, bake sale, raffle, and so much more!

9:30AM - Waggin’ Tails Walk begins, costumes encouraged!

9:30AM-11AM - Ukulele Band

10:45AM - WSHS Alumni Photos

11AM - Costume Parade and Awards

11:30AM - Barkminster Dog Show

1:00PM - Raffle Winner Announced and Event Ends

Be a champion for homeless pets, sign up to be a Volunteer Fundraiser or donate to support an existing fundraising page! Your support can help us rescue more dogs and cats from high risk areas, giving them a chance at life and finding a forever home. Every dollar raised makes a difference for rescue animals in need!

September is National Suicide Prevention Awareness Month

On September 10th, the West Suburban Humane Society joined the International Association for Suicide Prevention in recognizing World Suicide Prevention Day. Suicide can affect every one of us. By raising awareness, reducing the stigma & encouraging action we can help to reduce the instances of suicide around the world.

As an animal welfare organization, we understand that suicide rates can be high among veterinary and animal care professionals. A 2019 Centers for Disease Control study shows veterinarians are between two to four times more likely to die by suicide than the general population.

Changing the narrative means fostering empathy and compassion for those who are struggling. It means listening without judgment, offering support, and guiding individuals towards help. Together, we can make a difference and prioritize suicide prevention, ensuring everyone gets the help they need.

There are resources available if you or someone you know is in crisis. You are not alone. You can call or text 988, or text TALK to 741741.

Volunteer Appreciation Event

We had a great time celebrating our amazing volunteers at the Volunteer Appreciation Event! We had games, music, puppy time, prizes, giveaways, and delicious soft pretzels.

At the West Suburban Humane Society, our volunteers go above and beyond for the dogs and cats in our care. We are so grateful to have such a compassionate and kind community of over 400 active volunteers. Whether you are a new volunteer or a volunteer of many years, we appreciate you.

Thank you so much to our sponsor Gerald Subaru of Naperville for making this event possible!

Upcoming Humane Education Classes

Barks & Books - Tuesdays at 4:00pm beginning in September, Grades K-5

Cat Tales - Wednesdays at 3:30pm beginning in September, Grades K-5

Dinner and a Movie (Lady and the Tramp) - Friday, September 26th, 5:00-7:30pm, Grades 2-8

One Day Camp - October 13th, 9:00am-12:00pm, Grades K-8

Dinner and a Movie (Beethoven) - Friday, October 24th, 5:00-7:30pm, Grades 2-8

Halloween Animal Game Day: Doggies and Kitties and Goblins... Oh My! - Saturday, October 25th, 10:30am-12:00pm, Grades K-5