Animal Protective League

Black cats sometimes receive the unfair assumption that they are “bad luck” simply for being adorable! Because of this, APL has a “black cats rule” that allows black cats to be adopted for no adoption fee to encourage adopters to look past the bad reputation they sometimes get. For one adopter, though, the black cat superstition didn’t hold any truth and in fact felt more like the opposite.

When a family came in and saw Jack and Ranger, two black cats, they fell in love! Jack and Ranger have another special trait, though. Both don’t have their eyes. They came to the APL with very severe eye infections that left them in pain and blind. APL’s vets and medical team were able to get them treatment in the form of a double eye enucleation - removing both eyes and therefore the discomfort.

For this animal-loving family, none of this diminished their love. They took both cats home the same day and immediately showered them in toys and love. Jack and Ranger play just about like any cat does and love making piles of freshly-picked-up toys to roll around in.

If you’re interested in checking out some of our cats available for adoption, check out our website at apl-shelter.org or visit our shelter at 1001 Taintor Road, Springfield, IL 62702.

Ready to add a little adventure (and a lot of wagging tails) to your week? We’re looking for more volunteers to become offsite dog handlers, and our pups would be thrilled to have you on their team.

Offsite dog handlers help pick up dogs and take them to adoption events and fundraisers, giving them a chance to strut their stuff in public and meet the humans who might become their forever family. It’s part chauffeur, part hype buddy, part “yes, you are the cutest dog here” whisperer.

To jump in, volunteers just need to take our dog handler training class. It’s a one-time session, super manageable, and once you’re done, you’re all set to roll. If you’re curious, excited, or already picturing which dog you’d listen to music with in the car, email [email protected] and I’ll help you get into a class.

Our pups can’t wait to go on adventures with you.

Join our friends at the Northender’s VFW Post 10302 (2349 Stockyard Rd.) this Saturday, November 15th from Noon to 4pm for the 3rd Annual Helen Patterson Pet Adoption and Fundraiser for APL! Pets and Children are welcome!

The APL Mobile Adoption will be onsite with adoptable dogs and cats ready to be adopted at the event! There will be food, cash bar, raffles, and pictures with Santa!