Rent safe and private dog parks hosted by locals

Dog Training Dog Reactivity Dog Enrichment Sniffspot Community Top Dog Trainers City Dog Parks Dog Breeds Dog Names Dog Rescues & Shelters

Home

Blog

Dog Rescues & Shelters

Illinois

Quad City Animal Welfare Center

David Adams

June 25, 2024

Dog Rescues & Shelters

Quad City Animal Welfare Center

#92 in United States, #6 in Illinois

724 West Second Avenue, Milan, IL 61264

https://www.qcawc.org

adoption@qcawc.org

Service areas:

We serve the Quad Cities and the surrounding counties.

Quad City Animal Welfare Center (QCAWC) was established in 1977 and has been dedicated to a no-kill philosophy. Located in Milan, Illinois, QCAWC is the only full service no-kill animal shelter in the Quad Cities and surrounding area. Operating solely on donations, QCAWC serves the Iowa ‚Illinois Quad Cities and surrounding counties. Every family deserves to have a pet; unfortunately not all families have the same resources. QCAWC offers low cost spaying and neutering. Along with spaying and neutering QCAWC has a low cost, high quality clinic open to the public every Wednesday and the first Saturday of every month. These unique services give families the opportunity for affordable veterinarian care. Last year, 2023, our clinic surgically altered over 4,500 companion animals. We also operate a mobile vet van that offers low cost, high quality mobile wellness to make prevention care more accessible. In our own communities, each year thousands of pets are left homeless to fend for themselves. The QCAWC accepted and re-homed over 1,500 companion animals in 2023 and more than 500 pet parents visited our pet food pantry. QCAWC carries on the tradition of educating our young people to be humane and compassionate to all beings, knowing that kind acts can influence us all. QCAWC partners with schools throughout the Quad Cities and surrounding area to provide quality educational programs to teach young people that treating all living beings with kindness, compassion, and respect is the most responsible way to live. Our school presentations emphasize proper pet care, bite prevention, animal safety and the pet overpopulation. The QCAWC presents humane educational programs to schools in both Illinois and Iowa. The impact of our programs in the community not only could save an animals life, but could save a child's life by teaching them how to avoid being bitten by a dog. We are committed to remaining a no-kill and continually strive to improve our programs and enhance our efforts to control the pet population and service our community.

Mission and Vision

Our mission is to operate a shelter for homeless animals, to support a spay and neuter program to help control the pet population, and to educate the public on responsible pet ownership.

Adoption Policy

We do require that an adopter be 18 years old age. Any animal adopted from the QCAWC must be an inside companion. Cats are not to be declawed. Some of our pets also have age requirements in regards to living with young children.

https://qcawc.org/adopt/dogs

Testimonials

See all testimonials

"As a dog walking volunteer, I get the chance to interact and observe the staff several times a week. They are so intoned with the dogs and treat them like their own. The dogs love them. They also have a vet and trainer on site to keep the pups healthy and adoptable. Over the years, there have been a few that had terminal illnesses and they were loved on and treated medically until it was their time to cross. Many tears were shed when this had to be done. The kennels and building is very clean as are all the animals. Each kennel has an outdoor run and there are 3 large yards to get the dogs out to play in. I'm proud to be a part of this organization."

— mike c.

Volunteer / foster

"Not only do I volunteer at QCAWC at their wellness clinic, I also foster for them. I'm a member of On The Run Pet Rescue in the Quad Cities. In our area, there are a number of dogs that get dumped by their owners. Some of these dumped pets have injuries. After we've rescued them, the staff at QCAWC doesn't hesitate to step up and take care of these pets despite being abandoned by their so called family."

— susan t.

Volunteer / foster

"The Quad City Animal Welfare Center is the best animal rescue in the Quad Cities (IL & IA). The people are kind, easy to work with, and care so much about the animals. The animals are well-cared for, and the establishment is always clean. I adopted my sweet Gracie from them almost 2 years ago, and I can easily say that Gracie rescued me. Quad City Animal Welfare Center allowed me the opportunity to adopt my best friend. Without them, I wouldn't be as happy as I am today. Thank you, QCAWC!"

— erica s.

Adoptee

"My cousin Victoria Albertson works there. I have always admired her passion for the care of animals and hope anyone who owns a pet is as half as caring as she and her family are towards theirs’. This establishment and their clients are in good hands."

— owen p.

Supporter

"This really is the greatest shelter around. They are so generous and caring. They let the rescue I volunteer with borrow their mobile clinic van to do our free microchip clinics. They help place dogs we transport from puppy mill surrenders. They have taken in several litters of foster kittens for me over the years. They work really hard to raise money for the shelter. Not just asking for money like a lot of shelters. And they really are a no kill shelter. So so many claim to be that around here but it’s a lie. QCAWC goes above and beyond to save every animal. I know people can be awful and rude to them when they cannot take an animal in right away. And and the end of the day it really gets to them. But the next day they get up, hold their heads high and do it all over again. Because it’s all about the animals."

— amy h.

Supporter

"Quad Cities Animal Welfare Center is a shelter that I am proud to be called a volunteer. They take in animals with special needs, and animals that need veterinary care that might not be a given a chance at another shelter. The staff are amazing and selfless people who put the needs of the animals first. The shelter is kept spotless. Cleaned thoroughly every day. It smells good in there! The dogs are enriched with daily activities, training, and walks from volunteers. I have adopted, fostered, trained, walked, and loved more dogs there than I can remember. It is a wonderful animal shelter that I look forward to going and volunteering,"

— diane m.

Adoptee, Volunteer / foster, Supporter, Fan

"I’ve been able to see first hand how well cared for and loved each and every animal that comes into QCAWC is."

— natalie a.

Volunteer / foster

"As a veterinarian, I have been involved with the Quad City Animal Welfare Center for over 15 years. I have filled in for veterinary care - vaccine clinics, surgeries, and shelter medicine, but have also fostered many animals for them, and ultimately have adopted 3 pets from them. I can NOT say enough good things about them. Their facilities are absolutely top notch and director Patti McRae, along with the board, stretch their money to the best most efficient possibilities. Their facilities - shelter and clinic - are always clean and smell shockingly well given the amount of animals in the building. Their staff is well trained, polite, and efficient. The animals are so well cared for - not just medically, but also with exercise and mental enrichment activities. They know the mental stress shelter life can have on an animal and do their best to remedy all anxiety and stress - either with behaviorist consults, exercise regimens, foster placement, medications, or often a combination of all of the above. They use social media often and appropriately to inform the public of homeless pets, but also constantly spreading health education and awareness. Their impact on the community can't be explained other than amazing and far more widespread than just the Quad City Area. If they had more money and resources the sky would be limit of how they can help the community and all pets within in. They absolutely deserve recognition."

— kristin h.

Adoptee, Volunteer / foster, Staff member, Supporter, Fan

Get safe exercise for your dog by renting a private dog park near you

See The Best Dog Rescues & Shelters By Specialization In Illinois

See The Best Dog Rescues & Shelters In Illinois

See The Best Dog Rescues & Shelters In Other Cities Near Illinois

Get your dog the safe enrichment they need by renting a Sniffspot

David Adams

June 25, 2024

Dog Rescues & Shelters

David Adams

About the author

David Adams is a man of many passions, but his love for dogs stands above all. He is not only a dog lover, but also the founder of an innovative platform called Sniffspot. This unique platform connects dog owners with private property owners who are willing to rent out their space for off-leash playtime. While the idea of Sniffspot was initially conceived by his wife, Rebecca, David has been the driving force behind its remarkable success, tirelessly overseeing its growth and development. David's dedication to providing safe and enjoyable spaces for dogs to play, explore, and socialize is evident in his unwavering commitment to Sniffspot. He strongly believes that dogs need ample space and opportunities to stretch their legs and have fun. As a result, he has worked tirelessly to build a network of private property owners across the country who share his vision and are willing to offer their space for the benefit of dogs and their owners. Despite his busy schedule, David always finds time to indulge in his passion for the great outdoors. He loves nothing more than exploring new hiking trails and embarking on thrilling outdoor adventures. Whenever he is not working on Sniffspot, he can often be found hiking or visiting multi-acre fenced sniffspots with his two beloved dogs, Soba and Toshii. He is an avid outdoorsman who enjoys the fresh air, breathtaking scenery, and the sense of freedom that comes with being in nature. David is based in Salem, MA.

All testimonials

— mike c.

Volunteer / foster

— susan t.

Volunteer / foster

— erica s.

Adoptee

— owen p.

Supporter

— amy h.

Supporter

— diane m.

Adoptee, Volunteer / foster, Supporter, Fan

"I’ve been able to see first hand how well cared for and loved each and every animal that comes into QCAWC is."

— natalie a.

Volunteer / foster

— kristin h.

Adoptee, Volunteer / foster, Staff member, Supporter, Fan

About Sniffspot

Sniffspot is a community marketplace that enables anyone to rent land by-the-hour as a safe and private dog park.

Find Sniffspot on your favorite social media

The Best Dog Parks Near You in the United States

The Best Dog Parks Near Atlanta, Georgia

The Best Off-Leash Dog Parks Near You in the United States

All categories

Dog Parent's Guide to Separation Anxiety

German Shepherd Dog: Breed Facts, Experience and Tips from 9K+ Owners

Most recent articles

The Best Dog Parks Near You in the United States

The Best Dog Parks Near Atlanta, Georgia

The Best Off-Leash Dog Parks Near You in the United States

The Best Dog Parks Near San Diego, California

Furry Co-Pilots Welcome: The Best Way to Travel in an RV with Your Dog

Australian Shepherd: Breed Facts, Experience and Tips from 9K+ Owners

The Best Dog Parks Near You in the United States

The Best Dog Parks Near Atlanta, Georgia

The Best Off-Leash Dog Parks Near You in the United States

Top dog guides per area

Dog training guides

My Dog Is Food Aggressive With Other Dogs: What To Do
Does your dog ever growl when you walk by their food dish? Maybe they get possessive of treats, carrying them far away and giving you side-eye when you start to approach — or snarling at your other pets or children if they get too close.
Scent Training for Dogs: A Beginner's Guide
As almost every dog owner is aware, the nose of a dog is an amazing thing. Just as they can pick up sounds we can’t hear, their sense of smell and ability to pick up scents is well beyond ours. In fact, dogs have 40 times the number of olfactory receptors as humans.
Service Dog Training Costs: DIY vs. Pro
More than 80 million Americans rely on their service dogs to help them navigate the world. Task-trained assistance animals perform a huge range of life-changing—in many cases, life-saving—services: These dogs act as eyes for visually impaired handlers, provide mobility support, alert to seizures and blood sugar crashes, interrupt anxiety attacks, remind their people to take medications, and so much more.
What is and How to Handle Potty Training Regression
You thought your dog was house trained. Your home was clean from puddles of pee, those dreaded middle-of-the-night bathroom breaks were behind you, and you loved every minute of dog ownership… until your four-legged best friend started using the bathroom inside again. What’s going on?
Coprophagia: Why Does Your Dog Eat Poop?
Ah, poop. We humans think it’s disgusting… but many of our dogs seem to love the stuff. If you’re wondering why your canine companion tries to eat feces (either their own or that of other animals) you’re not alone!

Dog enrichment guides

The Best Dog Water Parks in the United States
Do you have a water-loving dog looking to burn some energy? There are countless dog parks to visit throughout our country — but some of them become far too hot in the midday sun to be safe for your pets to play. That’s why we’ve put together a list of some of the best dog water parks throughout the United States! At these locations, your pup can frolic, splash, and swim to their heart’s content.
Best Toys for Herding Dogs
* All Sniffspot articles are reviewed by certified trainers for quality, please see bottom of article for details *
Ultimate Guide: Dog Toys for Aggressive Chewers
Does your dog destroy every toy you give them? Is your house littered with remnants of fabric and stuffing of all different sizes? Are you tired of investing in “indestructible” toys only for your pup to still dismantle—or worse, get bored of—them in just a few days?
Daily Exercise Calculator: How Much Exercise Does Your Dog Need?
Everyone knows dogs need exercise, but how much is enough? Walks are great, but creating a truly balanced fitness plan means understanding your dog's specific needs. This post helps you develop a daily exercise calculator for your dog, considering breed, age, and lifestyle. We'll cover fun activities, understanding exercise intensity, and recognizing when your pup has had enough. Let's create a plan that keeps your dog happy and healthy!
Complete Guide To Herding With Dogs
* All Sniffspot articles are reviewed by certified trainers for quality, please see bottom of article for details *

Dog reactivity guides

Rottweiler Aggression: Truth vs. Myth
Many dogs have gotten a bad reputation over the years for being "dangerous breeds." Rottweilers are among them. Like pit bulls and other large, blocky-headed types of dogs, these powerful and beautiful animals are often assumed to be aggressive.
What Is a Reactive Dog? A Guide to Understanding Reactivity
So: Your dog is reactive. They’ll see another dog, person, or other stimulus in the environment (cars, bikes, skateboards, and other fast-moving objects are also common triggers) while out on a walk and suddenly go crazy at the end of their leash. The barking, lunging, and growling not only feels embarrassing for you — it’s clear that your pup isn’t having a great time either.
How to Socialize a Reactive Dog: A Step-by-Step Guide
Does your dog display reactivity to other pets or people? Maybe they’re a new rescue pup and are still settling into your home. Or they were sick growing up, so you missed their critical socialization period. Possibly they’ve had a bad experience after being raised as a normal puppy.
Definitive Guide: What is Dog Reactivity?
Do you have a reactive dog or suspect you may have one? You’re not alone!
The 9 Best Online Communities for Reactive Dog Parents
* All Sniffspot articles are reviewed by certified trainers for quality, please see bottom of article for details *

Sniffspot community guides

Top dog trainers in the US

The Best Dog Trainers in the United States of 2025
This is a list of the top dog trainers in the United States, based on votes from the Sniffspot community and the general public.
The Best Dog Trainers in Seattle, WA of 2025
This is a list of the top dog trainers in Seattle, WA, based on votes from the Sniffspot community and the general public.
The Best Dog Trainers in Portland, OR of 2025
This is a list of the top dog trainers in Portland, OR, based on votes from the Sniffspot community and the general public.
The Best Dog Trainers in Los Angeles, CA of 2025
This is a list of the top dog trainers in Los Angeles, CA, based on votes from the Sniffspot community and the general public.
The Best Dog Trainers in New York, NY of 2025
This is a list of the top dog trainers in New York, NY, based on votes from the Sniffspot community and the general public.

City dog parks guides

Top 10 Indoor Dog Parks: A US Guide
Looking for a space to play with your dog no matter what the weather’s like outside? Look no further than our list of the best indoor dog parks in the United States! These climate-controlled spaces are growing in popularity as pet ownership increases throughout the country. As a bonus, many of them also offer dog training, boarding, grooming, or daycare services on the premises.
The Best Off-Leash Dog Parks Near You in the United States
Searching for the best off-leash dog parks near you in the United States? Whether you're looking for public dog parks with open spaces or private, fully-fenced areas, this comprehensive guide has you covered. Discover top-rated parks across the country, plus essential tips on what to bring and what to expect for your next adventure.
Best Dog Parks Near Me in Las Vegas
Looking for the perfect dog park near me in Las Vegas? You're in luck! This guide explores all the best options for your pup, from public dog parks to private dog parks near me on Sniffspot. We'll help you find the ideal spot for playtime, socializing, and fresh air. Plus, we'll cover essential etiquette and safety tips to ensure a happy visit for everyone. Get ready for some tail-wagging fun!
The Best Dog Parks Near You in the United States
Searching for the best dog parks near you in the United States? Whether you're looking for off-leash public spaces or private, fenced areas, this comprehensive guide has you covered.
The Best Portland, Oregon Dog Parks
Looking for the perfect place to play with your dog in Portland? We’ve got you covered! Take a look at the best local dog parks and plan for your next adventure in the City of Roses.

Dogs breeds

Top dog names in the US

Top 1,000 Most Popular Dog Names
Looking for the perfect dog name for your new pup? We have created filterable lists of dog names from our database of hundreds of thousands of Sniffspot users. You can filter by gender, breed and state to find the most cute, unique and creative dog names.
Most Popular Male Dog Names
Looking for the perfect dog name for your new male pup? We have created filterable lists of male dog names from our database of hundreds of thousands of Sniffspot users. You can filter by gender, breed and state to find the most cute, unique and creative male dog names.
Most Popular Female Dog Names
Looking for the perfect dog name for your new female pup? We have created filterable lists of female dog names from our database of hundreds of thousands of Sniffspot users. You can filter by gender, breed and state to find the most cute, unique and creative female dog names.
Most Popular Golden Retriever Names
Welcome to our comprehensive list of Golden Retriever dog names, curated from our vast database of Sniffspot users. Filter through hundreds of thousands of options by gender, breed, and state to discover the most adorable, original, and imaginative names for your beloved Golden Retriever.
Most Popular Labrador Retriever Names
Welcome to our Labrador Retriever dog names page! Here you can browse through filterable lists of names for your beloved furry friend, ranging from cute and classic to unique and creative options. Our database of hundreds of thousands of Sniffspot users ensures you'll find the perfect name for your Labrador Retriever, whether you're seeking a name for a male or female, based on breed or state.

Top dog rescues in the US

The Best Washington Dog Rescues & Shelters in 2025
This list showcases the top dog rescues & shelters in Washington. These remarkable organizations have been recognized for their unwavering dedication to the well-being of countless dogs.
The Best Oregon Dog Rescues & Shelters in 2025
This list showcases the top dog rescues & shelters in Oregon. These remarkable organizations have been recognized for their unwavering dedication to the well-being of countless dogs.
The Best California Dog Rescues & Shelters in 2025
This list showcases the top dog rescues & shelters in California. These remarkable organizations have been recognized for their unwavering dedication to the well-being of countless dogs.
The Best Florida Dog Rescues & Shelters in 2025
This list showcases the top dog rescues & shelters in Florida. These remarkable organizations have been recognized for their unwavering dedication to the well-being of countless dogs.
The Best New York Dog Rescues & Shelters in 2025
This list showcases the top dog rescues & shelters in New York. These remarkable organizations have been recognized for their unwavering dedication to the well-being of countless dogs.

About Sniffspot

Sniffspot provides the best experiences and fun for you and your dog. Our dog parks are designed for the ultimate dog exercise. Our private spaces help you minimize distractions or triggers and maximize time with your dog. We provide off leash enrichment - exploration and activities you can't get anywhere else; wear your dog out for days. We make it easy to have playdates. Socialize your pup in a controlled, private spot - it's great exercise and it's fun for you and your dog.

Quad City Animal Welfare Center

Mission and Vision

Adoption Policy

Testimonials

See The Best Dog Rescues & Shelters By Specialization In Illinois

See The Best Dog Rescues & Shelters In Illinois

See The Best Dog Rescues & Shelters In Other Cities Near Illinois

David Adams

About Sniffspot

Follow us

Related articles

All categories

Most recent articles

Related articles

Top dog guides per area

Dog training guides

Dog enrichment guides

Dog reactivity guides

Sniffspot community guides

Top dog trainers in the US

City dog parks guides

Dogs breeds

Top dog names in the US

Top dog rescues in the US

About Sniffspot

Browse by top cities

Atlanta

Austin

Boston

Calgary

Chicago

Columbus

Dallas

Denver

Edmonton

Houston

Las Vegas

Logan

Los Angeles

Milwaukee

Minneapolis

Nashville

New York

Old Toronto

Omaha

Ottawa

Philadelphia

Phoenix

Portland

San Antonio

San Diego

San Francisco

Seattle

Tampa

Washington

Westminster

Browse by top states

Alabama

Alaska

Arizona

Arkansas

California

Colorado

Connecticut

Delaware

Florida

Georgia

Hawaii

Idaho

Illinois

Indiana

Iowa

Kansas

Kentucky

Louisiana

Maine

Maryland

Massachusetts

Michigan

Minnesota