DECATUR, Ill. (WAND) - The Macon County Animal Control and Care Center recently celebrated 19 years of caring for and adopting out cats and dogs.

Located near Caterpillar on East Parkway Drive, the shelter originated from humble beginnings. The mission started in 1951 with the opening of the county animal facility, which was more of a converted building than a true shelter.

It was overcrowded, dark, and in disrepair. Over the years, the community responded positively. With a new site secured and the formation of a foundation in 1999, a major trust grant of $1.2 million was made possible to support the shelter’s efforts.

Now, officers on call work right in the building. There are designated areas for dogs as well as for cats and kittens. The cat colony has become a favorite among visitors.

Calls to animal control have led to some interesting finds over the years, including an infamous alligator discovered in a woman's front yard in Decatur two years ago. There have also been goats and iguanas—yes, even Mr. Oinks, who proved difficult to catch. He has since found a home on a local farm.

Shirley Stanley’s dedication to the care and proper adoption of animals has received support from WAND through Radar’s Friends, which started in 2003.

All adopted pets are spayed or neutered and microchipped. Shirley plans to continue this important mission well into the future.

Copyright 2025. WANDTV. All Rights Reserved.