Animal and Rabies Control

The Cook County Department of Animal and Rabies Control (ARC) was established in 1954, when the Illinois Animal Control Act was enacted by the state legislature during a state-wide rabies epidemic. Cook County's animal control program is a multifaceted concept involving local government, public health, media cooperation, public education and citizen participation in cooperation with specialists in animal health, care and control. ARC reflects this multifaceted concept through a myriad of programs for the public and animal first responders.       

 Mission

• Prevent the transmission of rabies from animal to man through vaccination, registration, education, legislation and surveillance.

• Decrease pet over-population by promoting spay and neuter programs.

• Ensure the compliance of quarantine protocol for all animal bite incidents to prevent the transmission of rabies.

• Prevent cruelty and abuse of animals pursuant to state and county laws. 

Press and Media Inquiries:

Natalia Derevyanny
natalia.derevyanny@cookcountyil.gov

Brittany Hill
brittany.hill@cookcountyil.gov