Animal Protective League

11/18/2025

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.

11/17/2025

11/16/2025

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.

11/15/2025

Join our friends at the Northender’s VFW Post 10302 (2349 Stockyard Rd.) Today, 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!

11/15/2025

This mama and 5 pups needs you! And the Animal Protective League is here to support! Foster with us and we will provide everything you need. All you supply is the loving home!! Please call or text 217-503 - 7444 or email [email protected]

11/14/2025

A huge thank you to everyone who have opened up their hearts and homes recently! 🐾 Because of you, so many deserving animals found their forever families. Your kindness means the world to us—and to them. If anyone is interested in adopting the shelter is open from 12-5 everyday!

11/13/2025

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!

11/13/2025

If your ideal weekend includes making new feline friends and helping them find their perfect humans, we’ve got the spot for you at APL’s offsite adoption events at PetSmart in Springfield, IL!
We set up every Saturday from 10:15am to 4:30pm and every Sunday from 11:30am to 4:30pm, and we’d love a few extra hands. Volunteers help our cats get settled with fresh food, water, blankets, and toys so they look and feel their absolute best. You’ll also get to show off the cats to potential adopters and answer their questions. Think of it as being a hype squad for furry superstars.
We’re especially looking for folks interested in performing adoptions. It does require training, but don’t stress it. We’ll set everything up for anyone who wants to learn.
If you’re ready to spend your weekends surrounded by whiskers and good vibes, shoot us an email at [email protected]. The cats can’t wait to meet you.

11/13/2025

Final Call for Fresh Holiday Greenery Orders!
Don’t miss your chance to fill your home with the scent of fresh balsam fir while supporting the cats and dogs at the Animal Protective League!
Order deadline is, Tomorrow, November 14
Choose from beautiful wreaths, garlands, centerpieces, swags, and more—perfect for decorating your home or giving as a festive gift.
🛍 Order online at www.apl-shelter.org/greenery
or drop off your order form and payment at APL (1001 Taintor Rd., Springfield).

Not local? You can still help APL and send greenery anywhere in the U.S.! Visit [my.evergreenindustries.com](https://my.evergreenindustries.com "‌") by November 14 and use customer code: ANIPRO so APL receives credit.

Every order helps shelter pets have a brighter holiday season!

11/12/2025

*****SOLD OUT*******

Last Call for APL Fall “Addams Family” Trivia Night! ONLY ONE TABLE LEFT!

Act now and reserve the last table for 10 players for $150!

Click here for tickets! https://animalprotectiveleague.harnessgiving.org/events/3252

11/12/2025

This Thanksgiving, you can make a real difference in an animal's life by participating in our Thanksgiving Sleepover event! Take a shelter pet home for the holidays and give them a cozy break from shelter life. The sleepover takes place over Thanksgiving, and it's a great way to help our furry friends while also supporting our dedicated staff who are working through the holiday season.
Pick up your sleepover guest between November 23 - 25, and we'll provide everything you need—food, toys, leash, collar, and more—so you can focus on making your new companion feel right at home. Return your foster between November 28 - 30 unless you decide to keep your new foster for longer... or furever!.
Sign up for a pick up day below and give a shelter pet the gift of a warm, loving home this holiday season!
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/17WIpQuNCk4rQlO1GvV1M8XG2O3V_X1p9_mUPvRf5K8g/edit