Animal rescues play a crucial role in addressing the growing issue of pet homelessness and neglect. Across Chicago and beyond, thousands of animals are waiting for a second chance, many of whom are sick, neglected, or overlooked in overcrowded shelters. For these pets, hope often begins with One Tail at a Time (OTAT), a dedicated rescue organization working tirelessly to change the narrative for the most vulnerable animals. Their mission is simple: “End pet homelessness by making pet ownership a joyful and accessible experience for all. We accomplish this by rescuing animals from overcrowded shelters, placing them in loving forever homes, and providing support and resources to pet owners in need.”
OTAT’s values reflect their commitment to making a difference. Compassion for all animals and the people who care for them is at the heart of their mission. They strive to foster a non-judgmental environment that builds relationships within the community, helping to keep pets out of shelters and in loving homes. Community engagement and participation are vital to all their programs, empowering individuals to be the change they wish to see while relying on dedicated volunteers to provide daily care in both foster homes and their facilities.
One Tail at a Time prioritizes vulnerable populations in its rescue and support efforts, focusing on the most at-risk animals, including large dogs, senior dogs, sick dogs, parvo puppies, pit bulls, and neonatal kittens. They deliver innovative solutions to ensure these animals live happy, loved lives. Their commitment to progress and growth drives them to be at the forefront of progressive policies and programming in the animal welfare community, recognizing that meaningful change comes from taking risks, challenging the status quo, and always thinking differently. Let’s learn more about this shelter and the vital work they do.
The History of One Tail at a Time
Alli Rooney, Marketing Manager for One Tail at a Time
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OTAT was established in 2008 with the mission to end pet homelessness by making pet companionship a joyful and accessible experience for all. “We accomplish this by rescuing animals from overcrowded shelters, placing them in loving homes, and providing support and resources to pet owners in need,” says Alli Rooney, One Tail at a Time’s Marketing Manager.
Since its founding, OTAT has grown from a small foster-based rescue into a multifaceted organization making a tangible impact across the region. From community pet support programs to emergency medical rescues, OTAT approaches each case with compassion and urgency, and is determined to give every animal a second chance.
“Our rescue work is focused on saving high-risk pets at our local shelter, Chicago Animal Care and Control, as well as from Southern shelters in need of our assistance,” says Rooney. “We partner with shelters in Arkansas and Texas to bring high-risk dogs, such as heartworm-positive dogs, to Chicago so their lives can be saved.”
These dogs, often overlooked in under-resourced shelters, receive the medical care, behavioral support, and loving foster homes they need to begin their new lives. OTAT’s transport program is just one example of how the organization stretches its reach to meet the needs of animals far beyond city limits, offering hope to those with no other options.
However, OTAT’s mission extends beyond rescue. The organization also focuses on keeping pets with the families who love them. Through low-cost veterinary care, training assistance, and community outreach, OTAT works to remove the barriers that too often separate people from their pets. Whether it’s saving a heartworm-positive dog from euthanasia, helping a struggling pet owner access food and supplies, or placing a homeless puppy into a forever home, One Tail at a Time proves that real change happens when people come together for animals in need.
The Most Memorable Rescue
Scout, the Tibetan Mastiff, before her rescue and recovery.
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Scout, after her rehabilitation and adoption.
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“The most memorable rescue we’ve done would likely be Sprout!” says Rooney. “She was a Tibetan Mastiff found as a stray this past winter and was carrying over 30 pounds of matted fur, urine, and feces in her coat. It took several hours and our whole medical team to groom her under sedation.”
When Sprout was first found, she barely resembled a dog. Her massive coat had turned into a painful, tangled mass that was so heavy and filthy that it severely restricted her movement and put her at serious risk of infection. It was clear she had been neglected for a long time, surviving the elements alone. But despite her condition, her gentle spirit remained beneath it all.
We partner with shelters in Arkansas and Texas to bring high-risk dogs, such as heartworm-positive dogs, to Chicago so their lives can be saved.
Alli Rooney, Marketing Manager at One Tail at a Time
Every rescued animal has a story, but few have captured hearts quite like Sprout. Her journey from a forgotten stray to a beloved companion became more than a viral sensation; it is a symbol of hope, healing, and the incredible power of community. Thousands of people followed her progress, rooting for her recovery and celebrating each milestone as it came along the way.
“She learned about the good life in her foster home and is now happily adopted, living with her brother (another rescued Tibetan Mastiff) in the burbs!” Rooney shares. “She went viral—21.3 million views on Instagram—on our social media and received national attention.”
What started as a heartbreaking rescue turned into a global story of transformation. Sprout reminded the world that no matter how far gone an animal may seem, there’s always a chance for healing with the right care, compassion, and support.
How to Help
Mags is one injured kitty that is getting the help she needs.
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Membership at One Tail at a Time is more than just a monthly donation; it’s a powerful, ongoing commitment to saving the lives of the most vulnerable animals in our community and beyond. From stepping in during urgent medical emergencies to rehabilitating dogs with behavioral challenges and pulling animals from overcrowded shelters, members make it possible for the rescue to respond swiftly and compassionately when it matters most.
“For $10 a month, people can join as a One Tail at a Time Member, and it is a huge way that helps save lives and care for the pets in our program, as well as unexpected medical emergencies,” says Rooney. “As a ‘thank you,’ we send an exclusive merch item as well as routine updates about the lives that are being saved with the Membership donation!”
That monthly contribution may be small for many, but it is deeply meaningful and adds up to a real impact. It helps fund veterinary care, provides training support for dogs that need extra time to thrive, and ensures that no animal is turned away simply because their case is complicated. And Members aren’t just donors, they’re part of the One Tail at a Time family. They receive behind-the-scenes stories, heartwarming updates, and the joy of knowing they’re making a difference.
Conclusion
From heartbreaking neglect to joyful new beginnings, One Tail at a Time stands as a beacon of hope for animals in crisis. Behind every rescue is a story of resilience, compassion, and the organization’s unwavering belief that every life is worth saving. These transformations, from frightened, forgotten strays to cherished family members, serve as powerful reminders of what’s possible when a community comes together with love, urgency, and purpose.
Whether someone fosters a pet in need, opens their home through adoption, contributes financially, or becomes a monthly Member, their involvement directly fuels this life-saving mission. Every action, no matter how small, has the potential to change a life. With continued community support, the next Sprout—or any overlooked dog or cat—will have the opportunity to be seen, to heal, and to thrive in a loving home. Together, One Tail at a Time and its supporters are not just rescuing animals; they are building a future for every tail.
