We are a 501(c)3, not-for-profit organization dedicated to the rescue and rehoming of mature dogs and cats age 5 years old and older.

It all began with a group of people who loved animals. But in particular, the older animals. Dogs who had a little grey around the muzzle, but whose hearts were young and whose love knew no bounds. Cats who lounged around, pretending to be hard of hearing, until the whir of the can-opener proved otherwise.

These animals had once been loved, cherished, and part of a family- until one day they were no longer wanted.Often, an older dog or cat sits patiently in a shelter, awaiting a soft voice, a kind hand, or even a friendly glance. They sit and wait, often scared, often depressed, and almost always overlooked by potential adopters.

Passed by for younger dogs and cats, these pets are often just what an adopter is looking for - quiet, calm, housebroken, good with kids. Yet, they sit and wait for someone to love them, until many times, it is too late.

In April of 2005, Young At Heart Pet Rescue was formed to aid in the rescue and rehoming of older dogs and cats in the Chicagoland area. 100% of the animals we rescue come from municipal pounds with high euthanasia rates for older animals or from elderly persons who must be admitted into assisted living or have passed away, leaving their beloved older pets behind. Our mission is to find a new home for every adoptable animal that comes through our door, to educate the public on the benefits of adopting older pets, and to decrease the euthanasia rate for older, adoptable dogs and cats in Illinois.

Each dog or cat that we rescue receives the best veterinary care, and we do not turn away animals that need a little extra medical attention. All of our pets are vaccinated, tested for infectious diseases, are microchipped, spay/neutered, and the majority receive a geriatric screening and a dental. We are a non-profit 501c3 organization with an all-volunteer staff, so all donations go directly to the care of our animals. It also means that we rely on the generosity of pet-lovers to support our mission and our rescued animals