Senior & Special Needs Cats of Sangamon County

12/30/2024

12/29/2024

❤️❤️ADOPTED❤️❤️

Yep, my name is Meatloaf, I'm FIV positive, and I'm still waiting for you at SCAC. I am a super sweet tabby with white, around 2 years old. I arrived here as a stray on December 5, and unfortunately, I arrived with FIV (feline immunodeficiency virus). You can read more about FIV here: https://www.petmd.com/cat/conditions/infectious-parasitic/fiv-cats, but the short story is that I can live a long life with FIV, and it is much harder for me to pass it to an FIV negative cat than was previously believed.

I am a wonderful boy and certified lap cat who deserves a forever family. Luckily, the nice people at SCAC know all of this, so I am available for adoption. I am ready to go home with you – neutered, microchipped, vaccinated appropriate to age, and negative for Feline Leukemia Virus (FeLV).

SPECIAL NEEDS: Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV). In infected cats, FIV attacks the immune system, leaving the cat vulnerable to other infections. Though there is no cure for FIV, recent studies suggest that cats with FIV commonly live average life spans, as long as they are not also infected with feline leukemia virus. FIV is a highly species-specific virus that infects only felines. There is currently no evidence that FIV can infect or cause disease in humans. The primary mode of transmission for FIV is through bite wounds from an infected cat. Casual, non-aggressive contact, such as sharing water bowls or mutual grooming, does not appear to be an efficient route of spreading the virus. As a result, CATS IN HOUSEHOLDS WITH STABLE SOCIAL STRUCTURES WHERE HOUSEMATES DO NOT FIGHT ARE AT LITTLE RISK OF ACQUIRING FIV INFECTIONS.

The SCAC Adoption Application is available in a fillable PDF and can be downloaded at www.meowmobile.org. The completed application can be faxed or emailed to the number/address provided on the form, or you can bring it with you to SCAC. No appointment is necessary. We hope to see you soon!

RESCUES: please contact Sangamon County Animal Control & Adoption Center for more information about Meatloaf and how to become an approved rescue partner if you are not already. Thank you. 😽

Sangamon County Animal Control & Adoption Center
2100 Shale Street
Springfield, IL 62703
Phone: (217) 535-3065
Email: [email protected]

For more information about Meow Mobile, our mission, and how you can help, please visit www.meowmobile.org.

12/26/2024

❤️❤️ADOPTED❤️❤️

12/23/2024

❤️❤️ADOPTED❤️❤️

Thank you Capitol City Now for highlighting Meatloaf, an FIV positive lovebug and certified lap cat. Come in to meet Mr Loaf today before 4:15 pm! SCAC will be closed Tuesday and Wednesday this week.

Meatloaf is a super sweet tabby and is around 2 years old. He arrived at Sangamon County Animal Control as a stray.

12/21/2024

❤️❤️ADOPTED❤️❤️

Howdy, I'm so pleased to meet you. My name is Meatloaf, although to be honest I am more of a ham. I am a super sweet tabby with white, around 2 years old. I arrived here as a stray on December 5, and unfortunately, I arrived with FIV. You can read more about that below, but the short story is that I can live a long life with FIV, and it is much harder for me to pass it to an FIV negative cat than was previously believed. I am a big, wonderful boy who deserves a forever family. Luckily, the nice people here know all of this, so I am available for adoption. I have not shared yet how I feel about other felines, but a slow and patient introduction is always a good plan. I am ready to go home with you - neutered, microchipped, vaccinated appropriate to age, and negative for Feline Leukemia Virus (FeLV).

SPECIAL NEEDS: Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV). In infected cats, FIV attacks the immune system, leaving the cat vulnerable to other infections. Though there is no cure for FIV, recent studies suggest that cats with FIV commonly live average life spans, as long as they are not also infected with feline leukemia virus. FIV is a highly species-specific virus that infects only felines. There is currently no evidence that FIV can infect or cause disease in humans. The primary mode of transmission for FIV is through bite wounds from an infected cat. Casual, non-aggressive contact, such as sharing water bowls or mutual grooming, does not appear to be an efficient route of spreading the virus. As a result, CATS IN HOUSEHOLDS WITH STABLE SOCIAL STRUCTURES WHERE HOUSEMATES DO NOT FIGHT ARE AT LITTLE RISK OF ACQUIRING FIV INFECTIONS.

The SCAC Adoption Application is available in a fillable PDF and can be downloaded at www.meowmobile.org. The completed application can be faxed or emailed to the number/address provided on the form, or you can bring it with you to SCAC. No appointment is necessary. We hope to see you soon!

RESCUES: please contact Sangamon County Animal Control & Adoption Center for more information about Meatloaf and how to become an approved rescue partner if you are not already. Thank you. 😽

Sangamon County Animal Control & Adoption Center
2100 Shale Street
Springfield, IL 62703
Phone: (217) 535-3065
Email: [email protected]

For more information about Meow Mobile, our mission, and how you can help, please visit www.meowmobile.org.

12/16/2024

Shelters are over capacity and overwhelmed.
Unable to take in owner surrenders, we are seeing an increase in dogs simply being abandoned by owners, significantly increasing the stray population.

One of the most concerning and heartbreaking aspects of this situation is the increase in the number of senior dogs that we are seeing.

Animal Control is doing everything possible with the resources they have.

When extra medical care is needed, Friends of SCAC/AC is helping to provide that care, which is funded through our generous supporters.

Most senior dogs already have some medical issues related to age. Once they enter the stressful shelter environment, they are much more likely to contract an infectious disease due to their compromised health and longer lengths of stay.

We are desperately trying to help these precious souls.

However, the harsh reality of the situation is that senior dogs are dying at your local animal control.

It's not from a lack of Animal Control trying to help them. There is an abundance of senior dogs being brought into the community who are finding homes. The number of dogs in need has well exceeded the resources available.

The Friends rescue group
helps with medical and promoting ALL the dogs but we are a very small group.

Unfortunately very few people are willing to adopt or foster senior dogs from Sangamon County Animal Control and Adoption Center. However, senior dogs are being bussed in from out of state by rescue groups while the local senior dogs are suffering and dying in our shelter.

Animal shelters across the country are often at capacity, and bringing in more dogs without adequate adoption rates will lead to difficult decisions regarding euthanasia.

A senior dog's fate in Sangamon county.

8/3/24-A sweet, gentle soul arrives at Sangamon County Animal Control as a stray.
She was a senior dog who was in pretty rough condition.
Like most dogs who have been abandoned by their family she would sit and watch as the cars pull in and out of the facility.

We had to take her for additional vet care and when we opened the car door for her to get in, her tail started wagging and she got so very excited.

We put out an emergent plea for a foster due to her age and compromised condition.

There was no response from the community to help this dog.

8/27/24- She was found in her kennel struggling to breathe.
She was rushed to AEC where she passed away. She sat lonely and afraid on her last night of life.

A sweet senior dog who loved car rides. She deserved so much more.

The same month several senior dogs who were brought into the area had found homes.

We are feeling defeated and
the heartbreak is becoming too much. We have reached a crossroads, and as this is a community problem, we need community input. Is it better to try and save these poor animals and invest our limited resources in their medical care, only to prolong their suffering, while they live out their days in a kennel waiting for non-existent adopters OR do we euthanize them on intake. Yes, this may sound harsh but reality often is.

A senior dog sits at Sangamon County Animal Control as you read this. He needs further medical care. There is a decision to be made-help us, help them.

~In memory of all the senior dogs who are abandoned by their families and invisible to the public.

This is Blackie.
He is the abandoned senior this week. What to do

12/13/2024

Transferred to Animal Protective League - thank you APL! 😽

If you are able to help sweet Mary, please call SCAC after 8 am: (217) 535-3065. Thank you! 😽

12/13/2024

Transferred to Moore's Rescue Ranch. Thank you! 😽

Greetings, I am Luna. I am a gorgeous torbie (tabby + tortoiseshell) kitten with super soft fur, around 9 months old. I am an extremely sweet girl, who loves pets and attention. I arrived as a stray on November 26, in sad shape and missing my tail. Some would say having lost my tail just made me more adorable!

Unfortunately, I have a condition that makes it difficult for me to hold my #2 business. The nice staff & volunteers here tell me that it's possible I will have this issue my whole life. They also tell me that because I'm so young and such a wonderful girl, they really want to find a good place for me. Due to my condition, I cannot be adopted from SCAC, so we are seeking a rescue or a temporary foster until rescue placement can be obtained. Can you help?

I am vaccinated appropriate to age and negative for Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV) and Feline Leukemia Virus (FeLV).

RESCUES: please contact Sangamon County Animal Control & Adoption Center for more information about Luna and how to become an approved rescue partner if you are not already. Thank you. 😽

Sangamon County Animal Control & Adoption Center
2100 Shale Street
Springfield, IL 62703
Phone: (217) 535-3065
Email: [email protected]

For more information about Meow Mobile, our mission, and how you can help, please visit www.meowmobile.org.

11/29/2024

Transferred to Animal Protective League - thank you, APL!

Bonded tabby sisters Thelma & Louise are seeking their true forever home together. The siblings are around 7 years old and were owner-surrendered to SCAC on November 8 through no fault of the kitties. Both girls are on the slim side but have been receiving attentive veterinary care since their arrival at SCAC. Thelma & Louise are friendly, affectionate fur babies who deserve to be well loved and cared for and who have so much love and joy still to share with their forever family. We would expect the sisters to be okay with a feline sibling as long as introductions are handled appropriately. Thelma & Louise are ready to go home with you - spayed, microchipped, vaccinated appropriate to age, and negative for Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV) and Feline Leukemia Virus (FeLV).

The SCAC Adoption Application is available in a fillable PDF and can be downloaded at www.meowmobile.org. The completed application can be faxed or emailed to the number/address provided on the form, or you can bring it with you to SCAC. No appointment is necessary. We hope to see you soon!

RESCUES: please contact Sangamon County Animal Control & Adoption Center for more information about Thelma & Louise and how to become an approved rescue partner if you are not already. Thank you. 😽

SCAC is closed Friday, November 29, reopening Saturday, November 30 at 9 am.
Normal Business Hours:
Monday thru Friday: 10:30 am to 4:15 pm
Saturday: 9:00 am to 1:00 pm
Sunday: Closed

Sangamon County Animal Control & Adoption Center
2100 Shale Street
Springfield, IL 62703
(217) 535-3065

For more information about Meow Mobile, our mission, and how you can help, please visit www.meowmobile.org.

11/19/2024

❤️

11/18/2024

❤️❤️ ADOPTED ❤️❤️

Howdy, Rambo here. I am a handsome gray tabby with white, around 19 months old. I arrived at SCAC as a stray on October 23, and unfortunately, I arrived FIV positive. You can read more about that below, but the most important facts are that FIV only infects cats, it is much harder to spread to other cats than previously believed, and I can enjoy a normal life span even with FIV. I am a loving sweetheart who deserves my true forever home. I will go home with you neutered, microchipped, and vaccinated appropriate to age. I am negative for Feline Leukemia Virus (FeLV).

SPECIAL NEEDS: Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV). In infected cats, FIV attacks the immune system, leaving the cat vulnerable to other infections. Though there is no cure for FIV, recent studies suggest that cats with FIV commonly live average life spans, as long as they are not also infected with feline leukemia virus. FIV is a highly species-specific virus that infects only felines. There is currently no evidence that FIV can infect or cause disease in humans. The primary mode of transmission for FIV is through bite wounds from an infected cat. Casual, non-aggressive contact, such as sharing water bowls or mutual grooming, does not appear to be an efficient route of spreading the virus. As a result, CATS IN HOUSEHOLDS WITH STABLE SOCIAL STRUCTURES WHERE HOUSEMATES DO NOT FIGHT ARE AT LITTLE RISK OF ACQUIRING FIV INFECTIONS.

The SCAC Adoption Application is available in a fillable PDF and can be downloaded at www.meowmobile.org. The completed application can be faxed or emailed to the number/address provided on the form, or you can bring it with you to SCAC. No appointment is necessary. We hope to see you soon!

RESCUES: please contact Sangamon County Animal Control & Adoption Center for more information about Rambo and how to become an approved rescue partner if you are not already. Thank you. 😽

Sangamon County Animal Control & Adoption Center
2100 Shale Street
Springfield, IL 62703
Phone: (217) 535-3065
Email: [email protected]

SCAC is open:
Monday thru Friday: 10:30 am to 4:15 pm
Saturday: 9:00 am to 1:00 pm
Sunday: Closed

For more information about Meow Mobile, our mission, and how you can help, please visit www.meowmobile.org.

11/17/2024

Don't forget - November is Adopt a Senior Pet Month! Senior cats and dogs have so much love left to share with their forever families. Please don't overlook senior fur babies in your search for a new pet.

NOVEMBER IS ADOPT A SENIOR PET MONTH! 😽

Adopting a senior cat can be a rewarding and compassionate choice for many reasons. While kittens are undeniably adorable and full of energy, senior cats have their own unique charm and benefits to offer. Here are some of the best reasons to consider adopting a senior cat:

Lower Energy Levels: Senior cats tend to be less active and more laid-back than kittens. This can be a great match for people who prefer a quieter and more relaxed pet.

Predictable Personality: A senior cat's personality is already developed, so you'll have a good idea of what you're getting in terms of temperament and behavior. This can make it easier to find a cat that matches your lifestyle.

Less Destructive: Older cats are often past the stage of scratching furniture, chewing on cords, or other destructive behaviors that kittens are known for.

Grateful Companions: Many senior cats have had life experiences that make them especially appreciative of a loving home. They can form strong bonds with their new owners.

Known Health Status: With a senior cat, you'll likely know their health status and any existing medical conditions. This can help you prepare for potential future healthcare needs.

Saving a Life: Senior cats are often overlooked in shelters, making them less likely to find forever homes. By adopting a senior cat, you're giving a loving home to a cat in need.

Good for Seniors: Senior cats can be an excellent match for older individuals or those who lead quieter lives. They provide companionship without the high activity level of a kitten.

Remember that senior cats can still provide years of companionship and love, and they often adapt well to their new homes. If you're considering adopting a cat, don't overlook the opportunity to provide a loving home to a senior feline friend.

For more information about Meow Mobile, our mission, and how you can help, please visit www.meowmobile.org.

11/13/2024

❤️❤️ ADOPTED ❤️❤️

Howdy, Rambo here. I am a handsome gray tabby with white, around 19 months old. I arrived at SCAC as a stray on October 23, and unfortunately, I arrived FIV positive. You can read more about that below, but the most important facts are that FIV only infects cats, it is much harder to spread to other cats than previously believed, and I can enjoy a normal life span even with FIV. I am a loving sweetheart who deserves my true forever home. I will go home with you neutered, microchipped, and vaccinated appropriate to age. I am negative for Feline Leukemia Virus (FeLV).

SPECIAL NEEDS: Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV). In infected cats, FIV attacks the immune system, leaving the cat vulnerable to other infections. Though there is no cure for FIV, recent studies suggest that cats with FIV commonly live average life spans, as long as they are not also infected with feline leukemia virus. FIV is a highly species-specific virus that infects only felines. There is currently no evidence that FIV can infect or cause disease in humans. The primary mode of transmission for FIV is through bite wounds from an infected cat. Casual, non-aggressive contact, such as sharing water bowls or mutual grooming, does not appear to be an efficient route of spreading the virus. As a result, CATS IN HOUSEHOLDS WITH STABLE SOCIAL STRUCTURES WHERE HOUSEMATES DO NOT FIGHT ARE AT LITTLE RISK OF ACQUIRING FIV INFECTIONS.

The SCAC Adoption Application is available in a fillable PDF and can be downloaded at www.meowmobile.org. The completed application can be faxed or emailed to the number/address provided on the form, or you can bring it with you to SCAC. No appointment is necessary. We hope to see you soon!

RESCUES: please contact Sangamon County Animal Control & Adoption Center for more information about Rambo and how to become an approved rescue partner if you are not already. Thank you. 😽

Sangamon County Animal Control & Adoption Center
2100 Shale Street
Springfield, IL 62703
Phone: (217) 535-3065
Email: [email protected]

SCAC is open:
Monday thru Friday: 10:30 am to 4:15 pm
Saturday: 9:00 am to 1:00 pm
Sunday: Closed

For more information about Meow Mobile, our mission, and how you can help, please visit www.meowmobile.org.

11/11/2024

COURTESY POST - Rosie was transferred from Sangamon County Animal Control & Adoption Center to Pet Central Helps.

11/10/2024

The Meow Mobile volunteers would like to thank all veterans for their service to America. Sangamon County Animal Control & Adoption Center will be closed Monday, November 11, in honor of Veterans Day. All of our adoptable fur babies will be waiting for you when we open on Tuesday at 10:30 am. We hope to see you soon. 😽

Did you know that all Illinois veterans can adopt a pet without paying adoption fees? The bond between people and animals can reduce grief, lessen loneliness, and improve mental health and overall well-being. Pets can improve the lives of veterans, and in turn, veterans can improve the lives of sheltered animals by giving them a home. 😽

11/10/2024

❤️

VERY SPECIAL ADOPTION! This long-haired handsome ginger hunk Silicon (new name Albert) arrived as a stray on October 7, and he unfortunately arrived FIV positive. Albert is around 5 years old and is a friendly, affectionate sweetheart who adores belly rubs almost as much as he adores being brushed. Sangamon County Animal Control & Adoption Center management understands that FIV only infects cats, it is much harder to spread to other cats than previously believed, and Albert can enjoy a normal life span even with FIV. Consequently and thankfully, SCAC is able to place FIV positive cats for adoption. We are so thrilled to announce that Albert went home today! Thank you for adopting a special needs kitty from SCAC! Please send us updates. 😽

11/08/2024

Adoption fees are currently subsidized, with cats and kittens available for $25 through the end of the year, thanks to a partnership with Meow Mobile. Dog adoptions are $75, with some dogs having a portion of their fees sponsored by community members.

11/06/2024

❤️❤️ADOPTED❤️❤️

Greetings, I am Silicon. I am a gorgeous, long-haired ginger hunk, around 5 years old. I arrived at SCAC as a stray on October 7, and unfortunately, I arrived FIV positive. You can read more about that below, but the most important facts are that FIV only infects cats, it is much harder to spread to other cats than previously believed, and I can enjoy a normal life span even with FIV. I am a friendly, affectionate sweetheart who deserves my true forever home. I will go home with you neutered, microchipped, and vaccinated appropriate to age. I am negative for Feline Leukemia Virus (FeLV).

SPECIAL NEEDS: Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV). In infected cats, FIV attacks the immune system, leaving the cat vulnerable to other infections. Though there is no cure for FIV, recent studies suggest that cats with FIV commonly live average life spans, as long as they are not also infected with feline leukemia virus. FIV is a highly species-specific virus that infects only felines. There is currently no evidence that FIV can infect or cause disease in humans. The primary mode of transmission for FIV is through bite wounds from an infected cat. Casual, non-aggressive contact, such as sharing water bowls or mutual grooming, does not appear to be an efficient route of spreading the virus. As a result, CATS IN HOUSEHOLDS WITH STABLE SOCIAL STRUCTURES WHERE HOUSEMATES DO NOT FIGHT ARE AT LITTLE RISK OF ACQUIRING FIV INFECTIONS.

The SCAC Adoption Application is available in a fillable PDF and can be downloaded at www.meowmobile.org. The completed application can be faxed or emailed to the number/address provided on the form, or you can bring it with you to SCAC. No appointment is necessary. We hope to see you soon!

RESCUES: please contact Sangamon County Animal Control & Adoption Center for more information about Silicon and how to become an approved rescue partner if you are not already. Thank you. 😽

Sangamon County Animal Control & Adoption Center
2100 Shale Street
Springfield, IL 62703
Phone: (217) 535-3065
Email: [email protected]

SCAC will be closed Monday, November 11, for Veteran's Day.
Normal Business Hours:
Monday thru Friday: 10:30 am to 4:15 pm
Saturday: 9:00 am to 1:00 pm
Sunday: Closed

For more information about Meow Mobile, our mission, and how you can help, please visit www.meowmobile.org.