Holiday Pet Adoption: Wheeling Shelter Holding Open House, Lighting

WHEELING, IL — If you're looking to adopt a new pet this holiday season, a special night is planned Sunday at Heartland Animal Shelter. The Wheeling no-kill shelter is hosting its first Hearts Aglow Open House from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. at 586 Palwaukee Drive.

The facility, which opened in 2021, will give families the opportunity to visit the shelter and meet adoptable dogs and cats. The party will include many family-friendly activities, including photos with Santa and our animals, crafting, holiday carols, a shelter scavenger hunt, kennel tours, gifts for pets, snacks and drinks, a raffle, and a silent auction.

"Most people think of their pets as important parts of the family, and the holidays are all about spending time with your family and friends," Jenny Schlueter, executive director at Heartland Animal Shelter, told Patch.

At 5:30 p.m., guests will gather outside by candlelight for a lighting ceremony in honor or memory of a special person or animal. In addition, a choir from Stevenson High School will perform holiday favorites, and WGN Radio’s Steve Dale will treat us to a reading of the Rainbow Bridge Poem, according to organizers.

A finale will include the lighting of thousands of lights that will shine brightly on the shelter in honor and memory of our special friends.

"Our open house is all about celebrating the wonderful shelter pets that are looking for their new families, and it also gives attendees the space to honor the wonderful companion animals they share their homes with, and to remember those that they have lost but will always hold a special place in their hearts," Schlueter said.

To find out more about the event and Heartland Animal Shelter, visit here.