100000 spay/neuters a life-saving milestone
Transcription
100000 spay/neuters a life-saving milestone
TAILS FROM THE FURSIDE SUMMER 2015 Vacationing Mobile Pet Adopt Mr. Toppins with and without your pet [ 6 ] Adoption Center nearly completed [ 6 ] a special cat friend awaits a new home [ 10-11 ] [14 ] 100,000 spay/neuters a life-saving milestone APL and Sangamon County Animal Control have found considerable common ground in assuring the welfare of animals. By Evelyn Taylor O n April 23, 2015, APL celebrated the 100,000th spay/ neuter surgery performed in our nine-year-old spay/ neuter clinic. That’s 100,000 fewer cats and dogs to reproduce even more thousands of litters of kittens and puppies left to roam or be relinquished to shelters and animal control facilities. Of course we can only guess how many fewer kittens and puppies, but here’s how we can measure the clinic’s impact: Since opening in 2006, there’s been a dramatic decrease in intake and euthanasia at Sangamon County Animal Control. How much? Intake has dropped by 38% and the number of animals euthanized by 68%! The impact of APL’s spay/neuter clinic, though, reaches across a large swath of Central Illinois, extending to a 90-mile radius around Springfield. That’s how far our vehicles carry cats and dogs to and from rescue organizations, animal controls, and humane societies for spay/ neuter at our clinic. They form a network of nearly three dozen “shelter partners,” groups that regularly use our high-quality, low-cost clinic to affordably spay/neuter their animals prior to adoption. Sangamon County Animal Control is one of those groups, but the relationship between APL and Animal Control doesn’t end with spay/neuter. In fact, APL Executive Continued on page 3 Among the speakers at APL’s celebration of its 100,000th spay/neuter surgery was Greg Largent (at the podium), Sangamon County Animal Control’s Director of Operations. To his right is APL Executive Director Deana Corbin and APL’s spay/neuter clinic staff. At the far right of the photo is APL President Kevin Hyatt. NEWSLETTER OF THE ANIMAL PROTECTIVE LEAGUE OF SPRINGFIELD AND SANGAMON COUNTY PRESIDENT’SCOMMENTS Summer 2015 Tails From the Fur Side is published four times a year for members of APL, which is dedicated to caring for ill, injured and abused homeless animals and coordinating the adoption of those animals by responsible pet owners; it further is committed to ending companion animal overpopulation by offering high quality, low-cost spay/neuter services. O ne of the things I like best about the Animal Protective League is that it is wholly dedicated to assisting animals in need. It is not territorial. To that end, we Kevin Hyatt and Scrappy have formed working relationships with a number of animal organizations, public and private, to help assist animals that we otherwise would not be able to reach. APL has worked for many years with Sangamon County Animal Control through the New Hope program where adoptable animals are transferred to us. Once they are with us, they are given whatever they need to be made ready for adoption. APL also spays or neuters animals who have been selected for adoption directly from Animal Control before they go to their new homes. Our low-cost spay/neuter clinic has formed agreements with more than 30 animal welfare organizations within a 90-mile radius of Springfield. These “shelter partners” provide animals that are brought to our clinic to be altered. An annual membership is $25. To join or make a taxdeductible donation, send your check to Animal Protective League, 1001 Taintor Road, Springfield IL 62702-1766. PRESIDENT Kevin Hyatt VICE-PRESIDENT Vacant EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR Deana Corbin COMPTROLLER Kevin Hyatt TREASURER Vacant RECORDING SECRETARY Trish Gorda CORRESPONDING SECRETARY Diane M. Cape Board Members Betty Cedar Deana Corbin Sara Howe Dave Keil Richard Speck, DVM Evelyn R. Taylor Readers’ comments are welcome. Please send them to Tails From the Fur Side in care of the APL address listed above. The Animal Protective League is dedicated to caring for ill, injured and abused homeless animals and coordinating the adoption of those animals by responsible pet owners; it further is committed to ending companion animal overpopulation by offering high-quality, low-cost spay/neuter services. EDITORS Diane M. Cape Evelyn R. Taylor APL RESPECTS PRIVACY It is the policy of the Animal Protective League of Springfield and Sangamon County to respect the privacy of its members and donors. While the organization receives requests from time to time to share or sell its mailing list, the APL board has made it a policy not to sell or share its mailing list with anyone. Although funding is always a concern, the privacy of friends of APL is of greater importance to the organization and its leadership. Recycle and Support APL President Animal Protective League As this issue went to press, we learned of Kevin's untimely death. His impact on APL was immeasurable, and we mourn his passing. APL SPENDS YOUR MONEY WISELY APL’s Mission LAYOUT Kevin Booton We often pick them up, bring them to our clinic for the surgery, and return them in APL’s van. In many cases their home shelters would not have access to or be able to afford these services without the help of APL. APL works with local welfare groups to bring adoptable animals to adoption events, provides food for needy non-APL animals, shares information to help other animal groups, and joins with representatives of other organizations to work for legislation to help animals. Turf wars have no place in groups dedicated to helping animals. The cat who is hit by a car or the dog who is being abused doesn’t care who helps it, it just wants the pain and fear to stop. I am proud that by working with other groups, you and I, through APL, are able to reach far more needy animals than we would be able to by ourselves. 98% Medical supplies, food, daily care, vaccines, spay/neuter, veterinary care (National Average is 88¢ per dollar donated) 2% Government-required annual audit, utilities, phone, 2% insurance Take your aluminum cans, scrap aluminum, brass, copper, and old radiators to: Lake Area Recycling 2742 South 6th Street Springfield 2 98¢ 98¢ OF EVERY $1.00 YOU DONATE GOES DIRECTLY FOR ANIMAL CARE NEEDS! After your recyclables are weighed, take the slip to the window. Tell them you are donating your earnings to APL. Thanks! ANIMAL PROTECTIVE LEAGUE Vaccinate . . . continued from cover county that are responsible for Director Deana Corbin calls an outsized contribution to the relationship with Animal intake at the county shelter. By Control “a partnership.” Such identifying those “trouble spots,” relationships aren't unheard of says Corbin, “we can target our in the animal-welfare world, spay/neuter efforts to reduce the but they are unusual because number of animals at risk in municipal animal controls and those areas.” Such “targeted organizations like APL can be spay/neuter” is popular with drawn into conflict because of granting organizations because differing missions and priorities. it maximizes the impact of And there are significant spay/neuter is defined areas. In differences. APL is a charity fact, APL’s current campaign to funded by private donors, while spay/neuter pit bulls at no cost Animal Control is a unit of in zip codes 62702 and 62703 county government funded by relied on Sangamon County taxpayers. Sangamon County Animal Control numbers to sucAnimal Control has a regulatory cessfully apply for grant role—it is responsible for enforcing laws pertaining to APL spay/neuter clinic veterinary funds. And because Animal Control officers see the probanimals, which necessitates assistant Rachael Kerwin greets lems of pet overpopulation the operation of a facility that Capone, a pit bull mix from firsthand—in nuisance calls takes in all animals presented to Sangamon County Animal and reports of neglect— it. APL, on the other hand, Control. Capone's was the 100,000th surgery performed they can direct struggling pet takes in only as many cats and in APL’s high-volume, lowowners to APL for assistance. dogs as we have space for, giving cost clinic. It’s clear that APL’s spay/neuter priority to those that are sick or clinic is having a life-saving impact. Since the injured. And unlike APL, Animal Control may clinic’s opening in 2006 the number of find it necessary to euthanize animals when the euthanasias at Sangamon County Animal shelter is full. Control has declined from 3,140 to 1,005. But But Greg Largent, Director of Operations the even more telling figure for the impact of for Sangamon County Animal Control, says that APL’s spay/neuter clinic is the more than one“the mutual understanding of our (theirs and third decline in intake at Animal Control. That APL’s) roles” and communication between the number, says, Corbin, “tells us that there are two has made “ours a model public-private relafewer unwanted animals in the community. tionship.” It is clear that the two organizations Fewer that owners are relinquishing. Fewer to have found considerable common ground in wind up at Animal Control through no fault of assuring the welfare of animals. They’ve worked their own.” closely together for more than a decade, starting It was perhaps fitting, then, that the with the New Hope program, which has trans100,000th animal “fixed” at APL’s spay/neuter ferred nearly 800 cats and dogs at risk for clinic was a dog from Animal Control. The euthanasia at Animal Control to APL’s shelter. handsome young pit bull symbolized the life-savSuch transfers have the added benefit of relieving ing cooperation between the two groups. the pressure on Animal Control to euthanize for Says Largent of the relationship, “By workspace, giving other cats and dogs more time to be adopted. ing together in our community, the people and But if APL helps Animal Control do its job, animals are better served.” Corbin agrees: “We're Animal Control helps APL do ours by sharing all working toward the same goal, and working data that is crucial to identifying areas in the together we help more animals.” TAILS FROM THE FURSIDE / SUMMER 2015 Since the 2006 opening of APL's spay/neuter clinic, intake at Sangamon County Animal Control has dropped by 38% and the number of animals euthanized has declined by 68%! 3 Reflections of the EXECUTIVEDIRECTOR As usual, summer is an active time at APL. Below is a taste of what is going on. JV Program This year we have a group of 25 junior animal lovers. The age eligibility has been changed to 12–15 years, which we are excited about because it gives younger volunteers an opportunity. They will work in the shelter and learn how to care for animals properly. They also will have the opportunity to work with Joe Blankenship, owner of Dog Class, to learn dog training. They will have invaluable humane education opportunities throughout the summer. Workdays are Tuesday through Friday at our shelter, so make sure you look for them and thank them for their service! Deana Corbin and Lovey Summer is always a busy time for APL, with lots of activities and opportunities to help cats and dogs. Volunteer program Happily we are seeing lots of new, much-needed volunteers at APL. We are scheduling shifts for shelter cleaning and dog walking now, and we definitely could use additional help. We also will be offering new classes on off-site adoptions, so if working off-site to help our animals find permanent, loving homes appeals to you, these classes are for you. For additional information about volunteering, check APL’s web site www.apl-shelter.org or call out 544.PETS (7387). Free spay/neuter for limited time only! 4 “Congratulations” to our own! Alex Fuchs, a former APL employee, graduated from the University of Illinois’ Vet School this spring. Alex started with us as a vet assistant. One of APL’s Spay/Neuter Clinic vets, Dr. Richard Speck, attended Alex’s graduation. Caitlin Wolf, who also worked for APL as a vet assistant, graduated from Parkland College in Champaign as a Certified Veterinary Technician. Congratulations to Alex and Caitlin! Kitten Shower and Fosters Our kitten shower was a success and was attended by more than 30 people! Generous donations of items helped us to get our baby bags ready for kitten season this year. We expect to take in more than 1,000 kittens this year alone. Special thanks go to our kitten foster care givers without whom these little ones wouldn’t have a chance. Free surgeries Our spay/neuter grant is still allowing us to provide free pit bull and cat surgeries in specified zip codes. You may have seen the new signs advertising this great opportunity Pit bull terriers in zip codes 62702 and 62703 Cats in zip codes 62702, 62703, and 62704 around Springfield. We have smaller yard signs that say, “I got my pit fixed at APL for FREE and our phone number.” If you, or someone you know, lives in 62702 or 62703 zip codes areas and has had your pit bull fixed, please let us know so we may provide a free yard sign to help spread the word about this important free service to your neighbors. Purrs & Grrs APL’s retail store, Purrs & Grrs, continues to be successful. Visit this unique store on site in our cat loft to shop from a great selection of reasonably priced pet toys, animal gear, and cat trees. Check out this conveniently located store when you visit APL. It is especially handy to be able to pick up the supplies you’ll need while picking up your new pet. In addition to collars, leashes, and toys, we have ID tags for sale with engraving starting at just $6.00. We can’t overestimate the importance of having an ID tag on your animal. Be sure to check out Upcoming Events (see page 19) for a more complete list of fun and worthwhile things going on to benefit animals. Call APL’s spay/neuter clinic at 217.789.7729 to schedule. Thanks to PetSmart for funding support. ANIMAL PROTECTIVE LEAGUE STAFFSPOTLIGHT Dr. Teri Kidd D r. Teri Kidd will soon join APL’s spay/neuter clinic full-time after several months of interning with our clinic veterinarians, Dr. Andrea Reese and Dr. Richard Speck. Dr. Kidd’s recent graduation from the University of Illinois College of Veterinary Medicine is the culmination of many years of volunteer work on behalf of animals and the fulfillment of a childhood dream of being a veterinarian. But her route to veterinary medicine and APL was a circuitous one. Born in Decatur and raised in Decatur and Morton, she worked for eighteen years at the Peoria Area Food Bank and spent two years in Washington, D.C., with an animal rights groups. Volunteering with the animal rescue efforts in New Orleans in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina pushed her to “become serious” about taking the life-changing step of becoming a veterinarian. She entered the U of I in 2009, graduated in 2013, and then began a twenty-month internship in shelter medicine that included her performing spay/neuter surgeries in our clinic on Mondays since November 2014. She moves to full-time with APL on July 13. With “zero interest” in going into private practice, Dr. Kidd's focus has been specifically on shelter medicine and spay/neuter. She also likes the mission-focused work of a non-profit like APL that, she says, “helps animals who don’t have lots of resources behind them.” She has seen the need firsthand. In 1989, while working at the Peoria Area Food Bank, she “TNR’d” (trapped, neutered, and returned) a nearby colony of feral cats. “I don't even remember where I heard about TNR,” she says. “It was so new at that time that Alley Cat Allies”—the first national organization to advocate for TNR—hadn’t organized yet. TNR'ing feral cats “has always been a big thing” wherever Dr. Kidd has lived, and she has worked on her own and with rescue groups—including Tazewell Animal Protective Society (TAPS) in Pekin—to improve the lives of ferals with spay/ neuter. She currently volunteers with Country Cats, an organization that finds barn homes for feral cats and others who are not suited to indoor homes. Cats have a special place in her heart; “They are so dignified and elegant,” she says. But there’s also room in her heart for a dog, who shares her home with several cats and her partner, Mark. With child-rearing behind her—Dr. Kidd has three adult children and five grandchildren-she tends an organic garden that helps supports a vegan diet that she has maintained for thirty years. She has been too busy in recent years to pursue a favorite activity, scuba diving, which she also has taught to aspiring underwater enthusiasts. Dr. Kidd “can’t imagine” working anywhere other than an animal-welfare organization, and APL is fortunate to add another veterinarian to our staff who cares so much about animals. Dr. Teri Kidd Dr. Kidd assumes a full-time position as a veterinarian in APL’s spay/neuter clinic on July 13. What do I do if I find young kittens and don’t see their mother? I f you find young kittens and don’t see the mother, don’t panic and don’t disturb the kittens. Mothers often leave their kittens to find food and water, to move the litter to a new location, or to breed. Leave the kittens alone for a few hours (if they are 0–4 weeks old) or overnight (if the kittens are older) to see if the mother returns. Although you may be tempted to check on the kittens, stay far away and out of sight, so that you don't spook the mother. You can put out cat food for the mom and a box that the mother could use to keep her kittens in (don’t put the kittens TAILS FROM THE FURSIDE / SUMMER 2015 inside it, just put it near them). Don’t disturb the kittens as this may discourage the mother from returning to them, or she may move them away from you. Source: feralcats.com (Feral Cat Coalition of Oregon) 5 ASKTHEVET Road trips and pets By Dr. Amy Wolf S ummer is here! With it often comes time off from work and vacation time, independently or with our families. It can be difficult to decide how best to care for our four-legged family members when we are on holiday. Should we bring our buddies with us, leave them behind at a boarding facility, or arrange care with a compassionate pet sitter? Which is more stressful? What precautions should we take? What can we expect when we get home? For those able to take your pets with you on vacation, there are a few things you should consider. • How does your pet travel in the car on short distances? If your pet can’t wait to get to the car and changes in her regular routine are not upsetting (feeding and bathroom schedules), then she might be a good candidate for travel. • Does your pet get motion sickness? If he does and you decide to take him with you on your road trip, consider discussing options for prevention with your veterinarian. There may be a pharmaceutical option appropriate for your pet to make the ride more comfortable. • Is your pet nervous? Does she pant or pace the backseat? Is she afraid of loud noises? If disruptions in normal routine lead to bathroom accidents or if loud noises, such as trucks rattling down the road, are unsettling to your pet, you might consider leaving her at home. If you must bring her Dr. Amy Wolf So you are taking a vacation. Will your four-legged friends go with you or stay home? Consider your pet’s personality, health, and safety when making your plans. 6 with you, ask your veterinarian for possible anxiety-minimizing recommendations. • Are there any disease or parasite exposures along the way that are not common at home? Things to consider are canine influenza, tick exposure, leptospirosis, and others. Your veterinarian can help you determine if your pet is prepared to travel to other geographical areas, and can recommend any needed vaccinations or parasite preventatives. Choosing to leave your pet behind may mean finding a place for him to stay when you’re away. Should you use a boarding facility or hire a pet sitter? Which is better for you? • Is your pet up to date on her vaccinations? Ideally pets that are boarding should be vaccinated up to three weeks prior to their arrival at the kennel in order to fully protect them against contagious viruses and bacteria. Your veterinarian will recommend which vaccines they need. Call far enough ahead to plan to update any overdue vaccinations or immunizations. • Does your pet get anxious around other animals? If your pet cringes at the sound of another animal barking or at the sight of another dog or cat, you might consider a kennel facility with private boarding areas or opt for an inhome pet sitter. • Does your pet require medications on a regular schedule? Make sure to ask potential boarding facilities about their ability to medicate your pet and if the schedule will meet your pet’s needs. If it doesn’t, then a pet sitter might be right for you. If you use a pet sitter, meet with the person well in advance to make sure she/he is compatible with your animal, responsible, and compassionate. A possible plus is that some pet sitters can double as house sitters. Whether you choose to travel with your pets, leave them at a boarding facility, or in the care of a pet sitter, make sure you consider all their needs for activity, attention, toileting, food, water, medication and quiet time before making your decision. If you do bring your pet with you on your road trip, NEVER leave an animal in a car, even for a quick stop at a rest area. Cars heat up to lifethreatening temperatures in a matter of minutes. Either bring the pet with you on a leash or in a carrier, or leave the car on with the air conditioner running. Remember to keep food and water bowls easily accessible for your trip. Consider purchasing a collapsible water bowl so that it can be easily stowed and retrieved for a quick water break. Have a safe summer and happy travels with ALL your family! Dr. Amy Wolf owns and operates Wolf Veterinary Services, a housecall-only practice for small animals in Central Illinois. ANIMAL PROTECTIVE LEAGUE Will hit the road this summer Final touches being made to adoption trailer APL’s adoption trailer will debut soon! The interior is outfitted, the exterior is being wrapped with a colorful vinyl mural as we go to press, and plans are being made for a launch party. The adoption trailer is APL’s continuing effort to save more dogs and cats by transporting them to where potential adopters gather in Springfield and surrounding communities. As many as 25 cats and dogs at a time will travel comfortably in the thirty-foot-long climate-controlled trailer, which includes a meet-and-greet room where animals can interact one-on-one with potential adopters. How will the trailer help increase adoptions? It will give APL access to a wider variety of venues, providing more opportunities to find homes for cats and Thanks to donors to APL’s new adoption trailer Anonymous donor of $15,000 matching funds Barbara & Bill Bonner Family Foundation of the Columbus Jewish Foundation Philip Adams & Donna Johnson Sarah Alwardt Sarah Anderson & Ken Farnsworth Mrs. Walter Brissenden Deborah Connelly Derek Crawford Philip & Sandra DeNotto Roger & Linda Distlehorst Dick Eldridge Tina Enlow Jaqueline Fischer A Friend John Fisherkeller Green Hyundai James & Kathleen Handy dogs in our shelter. Because we only show cats indoors, the trailer will add considerably to our ability to promote cat adoptions. With our shelter-on-wheels, we can take the indoors wherever we want—to parks, parking lots of high-profile businesses, and neighborhoods. This unprecedented expansion of our adoption program is supported by donors, one of whom matched $15,000 in contributions. Those persons donating $1,000 will be recognized on a plaque displayed on the trailer’s interior. Donations may be made by check and credit card, by mail and through APL’s website (www.apl-shelter.org). APL thanks the donors below who contributed to the trailer through May 31, 2015. We’ll have news of the launch Martha Hawley J. Michael Heddleston & Nancy Carlson Pat Hembd J & R Marble & Trailer, Inc. Edward & Carol Kasper Gary & Valerie Koch Ann Kramer Douglas & Teresa Liberati Kim McAfee Moon River, LLC, a Brandt Company Shanaya Painter Tom & Brenda Poston Sue Roderick Karolyn Senica, M.D. Bob Silverman Donna Smith James Stout IV Benita & Daniel Van Cleve Donald & Joyce Werner Sandra Wemple-White Wendy & Lee Wheeler Jacquelyn Whittler Frances Woodrum TAILS FROM THE FURSIDE / SUMMER 2015 APL’s new adoption trailer is an unprecedented expansion of our adoption program, made possible by the support of one donor who matched $15,000 in donations, and many others who have contributed to the purchase and outfitting of the trailer. party soon, and watch for the trailer this summer as APL puts even more cats and dogs on the road to better lives! Carl Woodward In addition, the following gifts in memory of Von Hyatt were designated toward the trailer: Steve & Sarah Aughenbaugh Bob & Gloria Byers Diane Cape Melinda Clark Steven & Shawn Edge Michael & Karen Frank Hospital Sisters Health System employees Clifford & Marilyn Hunter James Hyatt Randy & Deena Powell Kevin Hyatt & Jerry Powers Dave & Wanda Keil David & Janice Kerwin Gloria Lane Joseph & Pamela Putnam Rod Rhodes Dr. Kathleen Ritzmann Charles & Janice Schuette Linda & Steve Thoma Adopt me! I’m Mocha, a fouryear-old chocolate Lab mix. I love everything about people (especially ones that I’ve had a chance to get comfortable with), and I want to have them all to myself, so I want to be your only dog. Adopt me! I’ll accompany you on walks, and I’d love to go hiking and exploring with you. Come see me at the shelter any afternoon from noon to 4 p.m. 7 Things for a kid to remember when begging for a pet By Melodie Bui O ne day my sister and I asked our dad, “Can we have a pet pleeease? We will do anything and promise to take care of it!” My dad replied, “Do you know what it takes to take care of a pet? It’s a lot of work.” Kids, like you and me, would do anything for a new pet, but have you ever thought what am I really getting into? What if one day your parents are away and they ask you to take care of your pet, what would you do? Or what would you do if your parents gave you the responsibility of raising a pet by yourself? We usually don’t think beyond the fun and novelty of having a new puppy or kitten. Important things you will need to do for a pet are to feed and exercise it. You have to buy its food, and you have to make sure it always has fresh food and water. Good exercise for a dog is to walk Do you know what it takes to take care of a pet? It's a lot of work. it around your neighborhood or just play with it outside. Good exercise for a cat is to play with it indoors, maybe with the help of cat toys. Doing things together with your cat or dog will not just help your pet, but it also will help you. Another thing you will have to keep in mind is your pet’s cleaning and grooming. For cleaning, you could take it to the pet store and they can advise you about supplies you’ll need, such as shampoo. You need to be able to afford supplies and vet care for your pet. Ask your pet’s vet for recommendations, too. Also, talk with your vet to make sure your pet does not have allergies. Grooming your pet daily also will help it stay clean as well. Finally and most importantly, you will need time for a pet. You have to take your pet places and never leave it home alone for a long time. The point of having a pet is to have time to raise it and not make someone else do it for you. You have to bond with your pet and know how to handle it. Always know where your pet is and love it like it loves you. There are many challenges when raising a pet, but it also is very rewarding when you care for, love, and devote time to your pet. Remember to feed your pet, exercise it, clean and groom it, afford it and, finally, have time for it and love it. So the next time you ask for a dog or a cat, keep these tips in mind. Eleven-year-old Melodie Bui just completed the fifth grade at Glenwood Intermediate School, Chatham, Illinois Second-hand and third-hand smoke a threat to your pet's health S cientists long ago warned about the effect of secondhand tobacco smoke on humans. But did you know that it is just as dangerous to your pets? Cats and dogs can develop such respiratory problems as asthma, allergic reactions, and lung cancer from inhaling second-hand smoke. And cats have the additional threat of third-hand smoke exposure because they ingest carcinogens when grooming. How? As smoke settles, the chemicals concentrate on the Tobacco smoke can lead to respiratory ailments and deadly cancers in cats and dogs. 8 smoker’s clothing, floor, furniture, and on the cat's fur. Studies show that cats in smokers’ homes are 3 times more likely to develop deadly lymphoma of the intestines and squamous cell carcinoma of the mouth. Both of those cancers can develop rapidly, with few affected cats surviving longer than a year. Dogs exposed to second-hand smoke are especially susceptible to nasal and lung cancer. There is no current research on the impact of e-cigarettes on pet health, although the cartridges should be safely disposed of to prevent deadly nicotine ingestion. Smokers love their dogs and cats, so how do they prevent smoking related cancers in their pets? By smoking outdoors, and washing their hands—even their clothes—before handling their pets. Adapted from “Tobacco Smoke Causes Cancer in Cats Too,” by the All Cat Clinic, Springfield, Illinois. ANIMAL PROTECTIVE LEAGUE They're cute! They're cuddly! They need temporary homes! Be a foster home for APL kittens I t’s kitten season, and APL can save even more of the furry babies with the help of foster caretakers who open their homes temporarily to one kitten or a whole litter. Foster caretakers care for, socialize (cuddle and play with!) and monitor the health of the kittens. You decide whether you want a mother cat with kittens, a litter of weaned kittens, or kittens that need bottle-feeding. Food, litter, and medical care are provided by APL. Most kittens stay in foster homes until they are eight weeks old and weigh two pounds— large enough to be spay/neutered and placed for adoption. Interested? Contact our foster coordinator, Salena, by email at kittens @ apl-shelter.org, or call 217.801.3298. Training made easy! T he reason most often stated by people who relinquish their pets or who report dissatisfaction with them is behavioral problems. What if you could help a shelter dog increase its chances of being adopted and learn skills that can transfer to your own canine family member? What if you could learn some of the secrets to feline health and happiness? Now you can. Lincoln Land Community College’s community education series is offering two programs: one for dogs and one for cats. Paws to Train: Dog Training, presented by Joe Blankenship, AP, will be offered in September. You can help dogs at APL’s shelter while learning valuable training skills for yourself and your family pet. You and a shelter dog, provided by APL, will learn basic obedience commands and be introduced to agility training. The skills you learn can be used to provide a stronger bond with your own dog or to volunteer with APL to improve the social skills of shelter dogs to speed their Behavioral problems are cited most often as the reason for relinquishing ownership of a pet. Training can help pets and their owners happily live together. adoption. Remember, do NOT bring your pet; a shelter dog will be provided. The class will be on Thursday evenings, September 17 – October 1, 2015, from 6 – 7:30pm. The cost is $35 for the three-week session. It will be held at APL, 1001 Taintor Road, Springfield. Cat Care 101, presented by Amy Carr, will be offered in November Does your cat have you curious and wondering what makes it tick? Join this session for an informative evening designed just for cat owners. Discuss the development, health, and behavior of domestic cats with emphasis on why cats behave as they do, how you might train a cat, and the best health care for your pet. Do NOT bring your pet. The class will be on Sunday, November 15, 2015, from 1-4pm. The cost is $19. It will be held at LLCC, Millennium Center, Room 1104. For information or to register, call 217.786.2292, or online at www.llcc.edu/ community-education/ We hear from an adopter . . . “ have enclosed some information on the I primary reason I love APL—my dog, Buddy. I was looking for a dog in December 2004. I talked to APL and described the type of dog I was looking for, and about a week later they called. As soon as I saw him, I knew he was “the one!” Buddy was pretty reserved initially and the only initial issues we had were one chewed pillow, a gnawed wooden step and peeing on my white sheepskin rug (that was an expensive day!) but he soon acclimated to TAILS FROM THE FURSIDE / SUMMER 2015 his new home. In 2009 I started taking him to work with me every day. Buddy has been a wonderful dog and I can’t imagine what life would be without him. Thank you, APL, for all the wonderful work you do for animals and the parents they have rescued.” Dana Shanholtzer 9 These special cats are as normal as can be W hat do normal cats do? They eat, sleep, play, and nap. What do cats with FIV do? They eat, sleep, play, and nap. They do everything a normal cat does. That's because cats that have been diagnosed with Feline Immunodeficiency Virus often don’t have symptoms and never do, with many living normal life spans. So why make a special point of promoting adoptions of cats that test positive for FIV when they enter APL’s shelter? Because despite the very small chance that FIV can be transmitted to other cats (research has shown that the virus is transmitted through deep bite wounds, the kind that occur during aggressive territorial fights outdoors), our shelter only will adopt an FIV-positive cat where it will be an only cat or live with other cats with the virus. So what is FIV? It’s a “slow” virus that affects a cat’s immune system over a long period of time, making it more vulnerable to other viruses, such as ones that affect the upper respiratory system. Adopters of FIV cats will want to be diligent about their care— just as adopters of normal cats are. So why make a point of adopting a cat that has tested positive for FIV? Because they could use some good fortune. Our FIV cats usually are adult cats that have had the misfortune of being left to fend for themselves outdoors before arriving at our shelter. So many of them are sweet-tempered that we readily understand how difficult life was before they came to our shelter. Now that they are safely ensconced in Kitty Korner, their personalities shine, and they’ve learned everything an indoor cat needs to know—particularly the locations of litter boxes. So what’s stopping you? Stop by our shelter any day from noon to 5 p.m. and see for yourself just how normal these special cats are. Sometimes we just don’t know how a great cat like Snowball gets passed over for adoption. The large Siamese mix is handsome, friendly, and lived happily in a family with kids and dogs for a couple of years. It’s time for a permanent home once and for all. TUXIE SNOWBALL DIGIT An adopter who likes a demonstrative cat will love Digit, who gives little nibbles on a person’s fingertips for attention. Digit is nearly seven years old and a shelter resident of nearly two years, so she’s ready to claim your hand (and the rest of you) as hers. Is he handsome or what! Named for his dapper coat, Tuxie is friendly and comfortable around people. He loves to play with toys and then kick back and relax. Sounds like a normal cat to us! Kane stays busy in Kitty Korner following around the people who come to visit. When he tires of that, he settles in for long naps. Kane will keep you company whether you are busy working on a project or enjoying a quiet read. PENGUIN 10 This handsomely marked cat wants what most cats want: a home and people of his own. Penguin loves attention and will happily snuggle up next to you every chance he gets. If you want a young, loving cat, Penguin is for you. KANE ANIMAL PROTECTIVE LEAGUE HERCULES Like many cats arriving at our shelter, Hercules was scared at first. But now he comfortably lounges, plays with toys, and meets guests who visit the room where our FIV cats live together. Hercules loves attention, and would love to hang around with you at your house or apartment. Bryan is handsome, friendly, and loves to play. Check out his goal-tending prowess in a video posted on Petfinder. To find the video easily, go to APL’s website (www.aplshelter.org), click on Adoptable Cats and scroll to Bryan. When he’s not playing, he prefers a lap to lounge on. If you are looking for a close companion, meet Bryan. Want to adopt one of these cats? Thank you to all who purchased and donated funds for Kuranda cat towers. Every one of the shelter’s cat rooms now has one! BRYAN V isit them at our shelter seven days a week from noon to 5 p.m. There is no adoption fee for FIV-positive cats. All APL cats and dogs have been spayed/neutered, microchipped, and are current on vaccines. We could really use . . . ANIMAL CARE • Canned cat food (paté style) • Dry cat food • Dry dog food • White rice (not instant) • Distilled water CLEANING SUPPLIES • Trash bags— • Bleach 13, 33, and • Dawn dish soap 55 gallon • Comet cleanser • Paper towels powder • Toilet paper • Liquid laundry • Dryer sheets detergent • Liquid hand soap (non-HE) • Liquid dishwashing detergent MISCELLANEOUS • New Kong toys • First-class postage stamps • Manila file folders (letter-size) TAILS FROM THE FURSIDE / SUMMER 2015 Two sets of cordless clippers and charging stands for the shelter and the spay/neuter clinic. The cost is $300 per set. Our current clippers are aging, and they are also corded, which makes them less convenient than cordless ones. Cordless clippers are more easily handled because they can be maneuvered without tangling or catching on other objects, including the legs of our patients. If you use handheld appliances yourself (a shaver, a curling iron), you already know that a cordless one more readily balances in the hand than one with a cord. Our veterinarians and technicians primarily use clippers for shaving around wounds before treating them and also to shave areas before placing IV catheters. They also come in handy for grooming cats and dogs who arrive with severe matting. The charging stands provide an hour of use, more than enough time to care for animals needing medical care. To contribute, please mark your donation “medical equipment,” and mail it to APL in the envelope accompanying this newsletter. Thanks! 11 SPECIALTHANKSTO... E.V. Martin for generous donations of cleaning supplies Sangamon County Department of Public Health and Greg Largent, Director of Operations for Sangamon County Animal Control, for participating in APL’s 100,000th spay/neuter surgery celebration Joan Robbins for making surgical covers for APL’s Spay/Neuter Clinic American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) for a grant supporting the remodeling of APL’s leukemia cat room, and for the purchase of a new isolation cage and cat condo; Paul Downs for doing extensive remodeling work in the room; Dave Keil for arranging flooring material and helping to paint; Chuck Hill for professional floor installation Menards stores, both Springfield locations, for making APL beneficiary of their May pet supply donation drive Iles Middle School chapter of National Junior Honor Society for its generous donation of supplies and proceeds from its 5K run/walk Food Fantasies for donating baked goods to APL’s kitten shower Paisley Marty for a generous donation in honor of her 2nd birthday Malinda Craig of Pots, Pans & Panache for continuing to generously donate the tuition of her students from her cooking classes to APL Studio on 6th for donating the proceeds of its raffle to APL’s needy animals SIU School of Medicine Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology for donating the proceeds from its Casual Day to APL Stacy Rhodes and Wells Fargo for making a Cash for My Cause award to APL April Cave, Mortgage Closing Officer for Heartland Credit Union, for making a contribution to APL in lieu of receiving a gift for her service anniversary Donna Smith, Maureen Gochanour, and Alora Taylor for donating cat Kuranda towers Abraham Lincoln Unitarian Universalist Congregation for making a special donation to APL John Drainer and Darrell Vickers for donating time to install an air conditioning unit in APL’s office area Memorial Medical Center Rehab Department for a generous donation APL thanks everyone who helped make Putts for Mutts a success! General sponsors: Just Right Eating and Knight’s Action Park; WDBR for promoting the event on air Prize sponsors: Culver’s, Baskin-Robbins, Papa Murphy’s Take ‘N Bake Pizza, Dairy Queen on North Grand Ave., TGI Fridays, and Hickory River Raffle Sponsors: Firehouse Subs, Scheels, Specialty Cakes, Starbucks on Freedom Dr., Caribou Coffee, Red Lobster, Papa Murphy’s Take ‘N Bake Pizza, Springfield Sliders, and Super Cuts Hole Sponsors: Cherry Berry, Laketown Animal Hospital, Green Hyundai, Hy-Vee, Town and Country Bank, P.J. Briney Training LLC, and Pratense Farms Bag stuffers: Olive Garden, Chili’s, and Papa Murphy’s Take ‘N Bake Pizza 12 Makenna Jillson for making a generous donation to APL’s animals in lieu of gifts for her 5th birthday Glenwood Intermediate School students for donating toys & treats to APL animals Marine Bank Employees Activity Committee for making a generous donation to APL from its March Casual Day PJP Auto Enterprises, Inc. for making a generous donation to APL from its monthly fundraiser for February Grace Cheng and 21st Century Dental for making a generous donation to APL Hope Presbyterian Church Senior High School Class for a generous donation to APL Brianna Nestler for donating supplies to APL’s needy animals in lieu of gifts for her 6th birthday Emma South for using her allowance to purchase and donate dog toys and treats U.S. Bank employees for donating needed supplies Jacob Elliott for donating supplies to APL’s needy animals in lieu of gifts for his 10th birthday Reagan Weichold, age 12, for raising an impressive sum herself and donating it to APL’s needy animals Rebecca Sharp for donating to APL in lieu of gifts on her recent birthday Rochester United Methodist Church for donating supplies to APL Anne Niewold for donating cat & dog items in honor of her 11th birthday Midwest Technical Institute for donating dog & cat food and blankets Cindy George and Owen Marsh Elementary 4th Grade class for a generous gift card from PetSmart Randy Herpel & LubeMaster for donating an oil change to APL PetSmart Charities for continued grant support for spay and neuter surgeries Patty Brockmeyer, Ellen Riemann, & Terry Dobbs of Designer Landscapes for generous ongoing support Teagan Morley for donating supplies and money to APL’s needy animals on her 10th birthday in lieu of gifts YMCA and Ashley Flowers for donating towels to APL Benjamin Gross for donating pet supplies to APL in lieu of gifts for his 7th birthday party Green Hyundai for donating a TV commercial to help promote APL’s Upscale Sale Lauren Meneghetti and her Girls on Track 7th grade team at Chatham Middle School for their donation of cat food and money Rotary South for its $250 grant donation and Rotarian Andy Dickerson for nominating APL Mission Outreach for regularly donating medical supplies Laura Bartman, Ashley Foster, Jackeline Nelson, Margaret Oltman, Jenni Rossi, Rose Russell, and Cindy Smith for their invaluable volunteer work at APL’s monthly vaccine clinic Stevi Fuess for making a special donation to APL on her 6th birthday Town & Country 4-H Club for donating a variety of pet care items and cash Courtyard Marriott on Freedom Drive and Lisa Jones for donating towels to APL State Board of Elections employees for donating cat food for APL’s food bank Lewis Memorial Christian Village staff for donating dog treats St. John’s Lutheran Preschool students and Terri Harms for donating dog & cat food and animal toys Trinity Lutheran Women With Mission for a generous donation of needed items Springfield High School French Club and Caryn Boltz for donating the proceeds from their charity event to help APL’s needy animals Girl Scout Brownie Troop 6121 of Pleasant Plains and Tami Roy for donating needed supplies and cash to APL’s animals Betty Martin for generously donating her time and skill to APL with valuable clerical and correspondence assistance Joe Blankenship, owner of Dog Class, for continuing dog training assistance Pat Picchi & Loni Bastas for generously donating their time and skill with APL correspondence Joshua & Carla Carter for continuing to donate a generous portion of their horse racing winnings to APL and for pledging to do so again in 2015 John Swartz for ongoing legal support Mike Rychel for ongoing assistance at the shelter, driving for APL, and for helping with the alarm at odd hours of the evening Sue Doubet for creating outstanding gardens on APL grounds Green Hyundai for generous, ongoing support Carl Woodward for supporting APL in numerous ways and for making another very generous donation Sangamon Avenue Veterinary Clinic for ANIMAL PROTECTIVE LEAGUE Special Thanks — continued a generous donation of needed supplies All volunteers who help at PetSmart adoptions. We could not do it without you Laurel United Methodist Church for generously donating meeting space to APL groups on an ongoing basis All volunteers who help with off-site cat adoptions at Ace Hardware Dog walkers and volunteer cleaners who show up day in and day out to keep APL going Springfield Police Department and Sangamon County Department of Animal Control for providing assistance on humane investigation cases Pet-A-Groom for providing grooming services to APL dogs and cats to make them more adoptable Coble Animal Hospital for special, generous support Chris Butler of KirlinEgan & Butler Funeral Home for ongoing support The State Journal-Register and Illinois Times, whose assistance to APL animals is invaluable Sam Madonia & Shawn Balint of WFMB-AM for highlighting APL events each Friday morning; Kyle on Alice @97.7 for featuring adoptable pets every Wednesday morning at 8:10; Chris & Deb for APL Pen Pals don’t write letters, they make donations to care for cats and dogs! Show that you care about cats and dogs. Let people know that you and your business support the Animal Protective League. Become a Pen Pal. We’ll recognize your generosity with a customprinted nameplate that will be displayed for a full year in our shelter, and we’ll thank you in every issue of our newsletter (circulation 13,000) for a year. Choose from three donation levels: • Room sponsor $1,000 • Dog kennel sponsor $250 • Cat cage or outdoor dog run sponsor $100 Join this special group of donors by sending a check with a note telling us whether you wish to sponsor a room, a dog, or a cat. We’ll do the rest. If you have questions, email etaylor@ apl-shelter.org or call Evelyn Taylor at 217-6851610. We’ll send a photo of your personalized nameplate when it's installed. Send checks to: APL, Attn: Evelyn Taylor, 1001 Taintor Road, Springfield, IL 62702 TAILS FROM THE FURSIDE / SUMMER 2015 featuring adoptable pets every Wednesday at 8:20 on WNNS; Jennifer Sullivan for hosting a pet of the week feature with APL every other Friday on WICS TV 20; Fox 55 for producing and airing two 30-second public service announcements for APL Lake Area Recycling Center for donating proceeds at donor requests to APL APL’s devoted foster caregivers for providing temporary homes and by so doing give APL animals a chance for a forever home PetSmart for collecting special donations for APL Paul Downs for endless APL thanks everyone who helped make Trivia Night a success! Title sponsor: Cherry Berry Sponsors: Coble Animal Hospital, Sangamon Avenue Veterinary Clinic, and Bow Wow Barber Shop Raffle prize donors: Sparkling Car Wash, Lauterbach Tire and Auto Service, Hy-Vee, Wm. Van’s Coffee Express, Obed and Isaac’s, Westwoods Lodge, Brookhills Golf Course, Cherry Berry, Wild Birds Unlimited, Antonio’s Pizza, Subway at Koke Mill & Iles, Firehouse Subs, Jersey Mike’s, Chili’s, Papa Murphy’s Take ‘N Bake Pizza, Family Video, Cocoa Blue Chocolates, and Café Coco help with building maintenance and transports Deb Hill for generous, ongoing support Gene Randolph for maintaining APL grounds, Dee Easley for mowing, Jan Ball for watering flowers and plants Mike Eckard and Mike Rychel for transporting puppies AirMasters and its employees John Drainer and Brian Burns for their continued support of our HVAC systems Show your Current Room Sponsors F. Lucille Foster - Springfield, Illinois love for cats Current Cage Sponsors and dogs by Leah Baughman — Petersburg, Illinois Residents of The Hope School Springfield, Illinois Richard Schachtsiek — Springfield, Illinois Laurel Leuenberger — Stonington, Illinois In memory of Andy Skeeters Beth & Ronald Skeeters Springfield, Illinois In memory of Val Jenkins Coworkers at Illinois Dept. of Public Health, Epidemiologic Studies Lance & Amie Loman — Springfield, Illinois Rose Russell — Springfield, Illinois Dana Shanholtzer/MidWest DNA & Drug Testing Springfield, Illinois sponsoring a dog kennel, cat cage, outdoor dog run, or an entire room. I want to help APL cats and dogs by donating: n $100 for cat cage (donation recognized with engraved nameplate) n $100 for outside dog kennel (donation recognized with engraved nameplate) n $250 for inside dog kennel (donation recognized with engraved nameplate) n $1,000 for room sponsorship (donation recognized with engraved plaque) Name as it should appear on the nameplate or plaque (please print) _________________________________________________________ 13 FERAL FIXES BYPASSEDBUDDIES APL supports trap/neuter/return (TNR) to reduce the number of stray and feral cats. Our low-cost clinic offers reduced-cost spay/neuter and vaccinations of outdoor stray and unsocialized cats, who are then returned to their neighborhoods or colonies. Currently, cats in zip codes 62702, 62703, and 62704 are eligible for free spay/neuter at APL’s high-quality, low-cost clinic. TNR stabilizes feral cat populations by eliminating new litters, and it reduces nuisance behaviors associated with unsterilized cats. TNR is the only humane method of reducing feral cat populations. TNR reduces the number of feral cats/kittens that enter municipal animal shelters, which in turn lowers euthanasia rates and increases adoption of shelter cats. Want to help feral cats in your neighborhood? APL will guide caretakers through the trapping process and also loan traps for TNR. Call the clinic at 217-789-7729. February 2015 totals: spay/neuter 264 March 2015 totals: spay/neuter 323 April 2015 totals: spay/neuter 718 May 2015 totals: spay/neuter 255 W MR. TOPPINS T hose ears suggest that Mr. Toppins is constantly monitoring radio transmissions. But his behavior tells us that he is always on the alert for the presence of toys. Mr. Toppins is a regular toy fiend (and he has a thing about feet. More on that later). At the shelter, he stands by the washer and dryer to see what toys he can coax from the shelter staff as they are loaded and emptied. So fixated on toys that he would happily take ones that are wet with another dog’s drool, Mr. T (a charming nickname for the eight-pound Chihuahua mix) is protected from his own vice by the shelter staff, who give him only toys that have emerged fresh from the washer and dryer. The interesting thing about Mr. T’s toy mania is that many dogs would be possessive to the point of aggression. Not Mr. T. Jingling balls, squeaky rubber bones, and stuffed animals don’t interfere with his relationships with other dogs. And he gets along with cats, too, spending his days hanging around the felines that share an office with shelter veterinarian Dr. Kathy Ritzmann. So what is it about feet? Mr. T is small, except for his ears (which could surely catch enough wind for flight), and maybe he thinks feet are a threat. Who knows what’s going on inside his brain? As surely as you can count on him jonesing for toys, you can expect him to nip at your feet until he is comfortable with you and any visitors. We leave you with two caveats: Toys required. Shoes recommended. Total from November 2000 through May 2015 30,084 14 e’re looking for an adopter who has a soft spot for a hard luck story. You see Bella deserves a change in fortune. Not that arriving at APL was a bad thing. Bella and her five kittens were rescued from a life outdoors and unowned in August 2010. Her healthy kittens were adopted to indoor homes, but Bella, who had contracted the feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV) during the time she was outdoors— likely from a bite from an infected cat—was moved into Kitty Korner to await adoption. This mustachioed beauty was a wallflower when she moved into Kitty Korner, where cats testing positive for FIV are segregated. Scientific studies are showing that FIV isn’t easily transmitted from cat to cat (and it can’t be spread to other animals or people), but APL houses them separately at the shelter and adopts them only to those persons wanting a single cat or who have other cats who have tested positive for the virus. And cats with FIV often have no symptoms of the virus, and may live normal life spans. Certainly many of the cats from Kitty Korner are finding new homes, so why not Bella? We suspect that she is just out-charmed by the other cats in the room, who are inclined to eagerly introduce themselves to visitors. Although Bella has come out of her shell in the five years she has spent in the shelter, she’s just not as pushy as the other cats. That’s too bad because she is an affectionate gal who just wants a home of her own, or a home with another feline friend from Kitty Korner. Bella has a lot of years and a lot of love to give. She just needs an adopter who will choose a cat based on what the cat needs. Bella awaits that special person. Could it be you? Meet Bella any afternoon from noon to 5 p.m. at our shelter. BELLA ANIMAL PROTECTIVE LEAGUE Show us your PAWs! Make a planned automatic monthly donation to APL U se your paws or your hands . . . we don’t care which. Just set up a Planned Automatic Withdrawal (PAW) from your checking account or an automatic charge to your credit card and enjoy the convenience of automatic donation and the satisfaction of helping the nearly 2,000 cats and dogs APL will care for this year. Automatic donations allow you to incorporate your taxdeductible giving into your monthly budget. And you can choose what date each month that the donation is withdrawn from your checking account. Credit card donations are processed by APL in the last half of each month. How does APL benefit? First, monthly donations provide a steady source of income that we can count on to help us care for cats and dogs. Second, it’s more efficient; after APL processes the initial transaction, little staff time is needed to continue the deductions. Should you wish to discontinue the automatic donation, just contact APL. It’s easy to get started with APL’s monthly donation program. Just copy or clip the form below, complete it, and send it to APL. 4Yes! I want to donate to APL using automatic withdrawal n Please clip or copy this form and return it to address on this form. Name _____________________________________________________________________________________________ Address ________________________________________________ Phone ____________________________________ City ______________________________________ State __________________ Zip ____________________________ Email _____________________________________________________________________________________ n Please make a monthly deduction from my checking account n $100 n $50 n $25 n $10 n Other______ (please, not less than $5) On the n 1st n 10th n 25th of each month Return to: Animal Protective League Attn: Deana Corbin 1001 Taintor Road Springfield, IL 62702-1766 n I am enclosing a blank check marked VOID. APL cannot process your donation without it. Signature __________________________________________________ n Please make a monthly charge to my credit card n $100 n $50 n $25 n $10 n Other______ (please, not less than $5) Name on card ______________________________________________ n Visa n Discover n MasterCard n Exp. Date ______ Card number _______________________________________________ Security code (3-digit code on back of card) ___________ Signature _________________________________________ Thanks to our monthly donors! Sharon Craig Amy Boeker Anna McMakin Philip Denotto Charmaine Black Erica Riplinger Suzanne Traylor Susan Clark Veronica Sanderson Quentin Pletsch Andrea Pepper Alexander Gee Spencer Smith Sandra Armstrong David Gebhardt Gary Reinbold Laura Bartman Sheldon Bathurst Paul Bellettini Teresa Brake Grace Alexander Cheng Brown Ginny Conlee Gary Eddington Leasa Ewing Mary Freml Nancy Gottfried Diana Hathhorn Lydia Dailey Hicks Edward Hoffman Jeanette Holmberg Mary Hudgins Bob and Lynda Jones Sally & Doug Keenan Ronee & John Kennedy Linda Koeberlein Cynde Labonte TAILS FROM THE FURSIDE / SUMMER 2015 On May 31, 2015 Deborah Stahl Wanda Lambert Terry Theyssen Carol Lange Richard Wallin Stacy Larson Philip and Mary Beers Tara Leininger Bonnie Chandler Gwen Lewis Debby & Diane Lueders George Davis Gregory Manfroi Virginia DowPatty Marcolini Stewardson Kathleen McDonald Norma Jean Duerr Paul Miedema Pamela Earleywine Nancy Miles Ladonna Edgecomb Tom & Tina Elliot Brenda Poston Darrell Elliott Sara Ross Ted Galassi Brian Schwartz Shari Goodfield Myra Sharp Robert Silverman Jenny Heisel Shannon Sisk Dave and Deb Hill Diana Smith Paul Kotcher Tamy J Kuzel Laurel Leuenberger Charles Matoesian Edward O'Brien Virginia Ormsby Lynne Rynders Irene Schroder Nancy Schull Donna Smith Julie Wargo Tara Weidhuner Jane Williams Charmaine Black Susan Clark Sharon Craig Deborah Connelly Philip Denotto Marilyn Earleywine Rhonda Eller 15 F. Lucille Foster David Gebhardt Alexander Gee J Michael & Nancy Heddleston & Carlson Anna McMakin Karen Pitts Gary Reinbold Tad Rice Erica Riplinger Veronica Sanderson Kim Schmidt Suzanne Traylor Daniel and Benita Van Cleve Ross and Carey Walden DME Springfield APL’SVALUABLEDONORS Bequests from wills/estates received by APL T he Animal Protective League was the grateful recipient of special bequests from wills/estates of the following people. APL is honored to have earned the trust of these donors, and will use the funds to protect and provide for needy animals as was their wish. Viva Golladay Wills/Estates Donations $1000+ Wells Fargo Community Support Campaign Community Shares of IL George & Linda Merschman Thrivent Financial United Way of Central Illinois Levi, Ray & Shoup, Inc. Daniel & Nancy Schull Donations $500 – $999 AT&T United Way Employee Giving Philip Adams Ronald & Barbara Coleman Heartland Dental Care, Inc Chipotle Grill Michael Coats Marine Bank Philip & Sandra Denotto Michael & Nancy Heddleston & Carlson Bank of America Mrs. Walter Brissenden Paul & Cheryle Downs F. Lucille Foster Scott Grigsby Shelby Harbison Nancy Lee McMurray J. William & Carole Roberts Carl Woodward Donations $250 – $499 Kathryn Donatic Richard & Lorine Wallin Norma Duerr Sandra Hinsey Mary Hudgins Karen Pitts PJP Auto Enterprises Inc Donations from February 1 — May 31, 2015 IreneSchroder BrianSchwartz LauraBartman KathrynBallard AIG Matching Grants Program Tom Ala G. Virginia Conlee Crystal Matthiesen Paws Cares of Montgomery County Debra & Steven Shanle James & Gloria Spalding Jr. Benita & Daniel Van Cleve Betty Walden Gail Hausman 21st Century Dental Deborah Connelly Judith & Joseph Bleakley Robert Brouse Robert Bunn DoTopia David and Melinda Isaacs Gloria Lane Doris & Eldon Launer Robert & Nancy Lyon Quentin & Wilma Pletsch Lawrence Rieth Michael & Barbara Robertson Sue Roderick Ruth Roland Rotary Club of Springfield Alan Sender Frances Woodrum MEMORIALSANDSPECIALNOTICES Donations from February 1 — May 31, 2015 In memory of Russell Atkins Peter & Nancy Olson In memory of Otilla Alexander HFS Bureau of Hospital & Provider Services In memory of Randy Bahlow Sandi Bahlow Arthur & Brenda Esslinger Patsy Y. Woods Melvin & Cheryl Hamman Donald & Joan Struck Michael & Antonina Herr Tim N. Bandy Michael & Lisa Harmon Lawrence & Marion Gregg JoEllen Johnson In Memoriam The APL family and Springfield community lost a special person when Lindsey Sharp died June 5 after being struck by a vehicle. Lindsey worked for APL for nearly three years, starting as a kennel attendant in 2008 and moving up to kennel manager a year later before changing careers in 2010. Remembered for her ever-present smile, Lindsey was characterized in this newsletter (Spring 2010) as “relaxed, gregarious and enthusiastic about her job.” Lindsey is survived by her young son, Owyn, who was a baby when she worked for APL. Both humans and animals have lost a friend. We mourn her loss. 16 Don & Janine Kother Trish O’Shea Donna Dahlkamp Brenda Mickle Kelly Kirkbride Pam Haney Susan Allen Caryl & Cecil Huggins In memory of Joe Ballard Ruth M. Ballard Linda R. Wright Wanda L. Ballard Philemon & Jerolyn Southwick Al & Ruth Stotler Todd & Gina Cooper Lonnie & Chris Smith Glenda Howard Jesse Downey Joyce Wiles In memory of Tom Bartlett & his Shadow Shelly & Donald Small In memory of Richard Barton Springfield Antique Mall Lorine & Richard Wallin Richard & June Speck Ethlyn S. Henderson Marlene Gundersen In memory of Tom Blemler Fran C. Blemler Brenda J. Holmes Bonnie D. McTaggart Springfield Pepsi-Cola Bottling Co. David & Wanda Keil Bryon & Linda Distlehorst In memory of Norman Bolinger Jim & Marilyn Anson In memory of Chris Boehnke Pat Boehnke In memory of Margaret Boone Ron & Sue Riggle Marge Stadtman Matt, Shelly, Paige Jake Seman Ron, Angie, Seth, Noah, Connor & Becca Riggle: In memory of Korey Bradley Scott Grigsby In memory of Irving Brendt William & Katherine James In memory of Shelley Brummer Ron & Cindy Overlsech Timothy & Jennifer Shrake In memory of Kelly Bunn Bob & Sarah Bunn In memory of Ida Busch William & Francine Jordon Daniel & Barbara Drewes Larry & Deborah Peters Donald & Dorothy Rentmeiste Judith A. Gill Virginia N. Turner In memory of Patricia Carriker Jacquelyn & Thomas Tucker Mr. & Mrs. Robert A. Lyon Jr. Ernie & Tricia Kierbach Jolene & Alan Massie In memory of Alan S. Cohen Diane M. Cape In memory of David Shane Colyer Nancy J. Fromme Jerome S. Themig Ellen Braden Matt Herren Tom & Jeanie Tinker In memory of Corinne Coombe Coombe-Bloxdorf, P.C In memory of Bette DeFrates Joyce & Ronald Smith Dwight H. OKeefe III Thomas & Valerie Baker Mr. & Mrs. James Hillyer In memory of R. Jeanette Fagg Betty Mussatt Marian & Robert Tomlinson Vernon & Mary Hemberger “Bird Song Farm” Ernest & Connie Leadill, Jr. Melinda M. Calvert Nancy J. Marr William D. Hovey Deanne Rose Karen McMahon Daniel & Jennifer Grigsby Jay & Karen Rogers Donna Colwell Emily P. Pfeffer Harry & Frances Robertson Vickie King ANIMAL PROTECTIVE LEAGUE Memorials — continued In memory of Betsy Jo Feagans Harold E. McHenry In memory of Carl Febus Gertrude L. Yokley V. L. Rynders William & Lisa Riecks Springfield High School District 186 Joey L. Henry Bettie & Wayne Theobald In memory of Abigail Jo Feller Julie A. McCracken Clifford A. Zolna Herman Dale Mary Etta Smith Cheryl A. Croft Joseph & Marilyn O’Bryan Terry & Sue Davis & Family Trina M. Diedrich R. A. & J.A. Lees Karen Amling John & Georgia Culumber Debra L. Clark Brian & Janice Hrabak Sue & Larry Ade Josephine E. Feller John & Ann Cottrell Stacey Simpson Marie A. Bard Peggy L. Christen Kimble & Jan Alexander Thomas & Mayola Dean Eric Lees In memory of Frances Flanagan Ronald & Barbara Coleman Judy Redding In memory of Don Fowler Judith Kerst In memory of Connie Frost Ruth & Latham Souther Donna Fox Jane Buis-Henry Taylor Paislet Kenda Cantrell Frances Harden Kay Carol Champley Diane Briggs William & Janet Brewer Michael Meseke Jeannette Watkins In memory of Connie Tuxhorn Glenn Gloria Tuxhorn In memory of Nancy Ginder Claude & Linda Jacobs Fritz O’Hare Margie Higgason In memory of Bobby Gobel Fred & Linda Nowack Katrina Christofilakos Brenda & Jeffrey Price Judy L. Carmody Cornelius & Jennifer Bartlett Jeffrey Colman & Lynette McKinneyColman Barbara & John Hampton M. A. LeMay Stephanie & Harold Coonrod Michael & Carole Vetter Nancy L. Groesch Aimee Gant Frank & Nancy Dunkos Betty Jones Alice Martin In memory of Mary Lou Goodin Lana S. Rice In memory of Edward & Viva Golladay Pamela Earleywine In memory of John Edward Guy Sandra Easdale In memory of Kate Hein Robert & Maya Hardy In memory of Nancy Heinzel’s birthday Morris & Virginia Cooper In memory of Robert Helfert Nancy Severa Zimmers Pam Helfert In memory of Robert Hopper Lorraine J. Bivin Wade & Holly Meteer David & Toni Perry In memory of John Host Jr. Mark & Karen Stevens Denise Kolden Ellen Burns Nancy Corrigan In memory of Lloyd Inslee Stepen Kasa TAILS FROM THE FURSIDE / SUMMER 2015 Naomi Jones Friends from IDOT David & Michelle Tebrugge Robert & Lisa Colwell In memory of Liz James Doris & Richard Manley Carrie James Teresa McClanahan Alva Miller A. Patterson Franklin & Brenda Wade R. W. Troxell & Company Kim Barget In memory of Doris Jones. Illinois State Archives In memory of Jim Kelly Steven & Irene Pasley In memory of Ronald Kerr Stanley & Thelma Rhodes Lisa Kamp Molly Henderson Anna Kluckman Robert & Martha Shearburn Catherine Beets Todd & Michelle Bandy In memory of William & Aldona Klutnick K. Suzanne Tin In memory of Joshua Lascelles E.J. McClenning Christine LascellesMeador In memory of Bill Lamb Sr. David & Joanne Barnwell In memory of Edward, Mary & Leslie Leham Gary & Marcy McBride In memory James Phillip Lynch Ronald & Barbara Coleman Willa E. Epperson DCT/Precision LLC Dennis L. Campbell Denise L. Smith Kenneth & Beth Drewenski E. Charles & Denise Smith John & Judith Burch Tammy & Mark Vogel Phyllis & Angela Kissell Linda Kennedy Create a lasting legacy of your love for cats and dogs Make a planned gift to the Animal Protective League Your planned gift is a promise to help the most vulnerable cats and dogs. Ones that have been abandoned, neglected, and abused . . . are sick and injured . . . or surrendered to animal-control facilities where they may face euthanasia. Your support will help ensure that funds will be available in the future to ensure the welfare of cats and dogs. Give the gift of life and love to the neediest of cats and dogs in the following ways: Make an estate gift—either a specific dollar amount or a percentage of your estate—to APL. Designate APL as the beneficiary of an insurance policy, annuity, trust, or retirement plan assets. Talk to us about defining your legacy of love for animals, and then consult an attorney or financial planner for guidance in making a planned gift. For additional information, contact Evelyn Taylor at [email protected], or by phone at 217.685.1610. Calabro James & Peggy Vogel Mai Britt In memory of Pete Matson Joyce & David Copp Ed & Rose Russell Gladys M. Baggerly Frederick Stericker Guy & Alyce Beggs Linda M. Wheeler In memory of Stella Merz From her loving family Jean & Thomas Jennings James & Shirley Anderson Robert & Cheryl Giancomini Janet Oliver The “Coffee Cub” at IEPA Lisa Bonnett Sherrie Elzinga Pam Smth Steve Gumble Kurt Neibergall Rochell DeRochi John & Cathleen Shupe Michael B. Constantino In memory of Grace Meyer Carol M. Harper Karen M. Vance In memory of James Miller Dick & Judy Coe James & Teresa McLean Mark & Kathleen Danner In memory of William O’Dell Douglas & Jill Swartz In memory of Rich & Michelle Price Charles & Toni Winchester In memory of Susie L. Power National Assn. of Letter Carriers Merged Branch 80 N.A.L.C In memory of Steve Reynolds Chatham-Glenwood Class of 1995 Tania K. Maschhoff Bob & Bev Dorworth Jason Dorworth Josh & Ashley Dorworth In memory of Carl J. Rice Larry & Brenda Ackerman Gwen & Donald Tucker Kathleen M. Ridley Continued on page 18 17 Memorials — continued from page 17 Robert C. Schroll Albert & Bonnie Rogers, Jr. In memory of Sharon Richardson Rebecca J. Vann MMC Coding Dept. Springfield, IL In memory of Honora Rieth Lawrence E. Rieth In memory of Penny Roscetti Brenda S. Kelley In memory of Wiloth “Willie” Rosenberg Robert Jenkins Dow & Deborah Grider H. Bruce & Catherine Loyd Marilyn Fox Eastman Marilyn Kyes Bob Jenkins In memory of Shirley Ross Albert & Ann Traeger Cecile M. Traeger Juanita M. Brockman In memory of Arthur “Reggie” Rouse Tammie & Mike Hammann Stephen & Patricia Gourley Mark A. Steinmetz Brian & Norma Mitchell Paul & Holly Leefers Reva E. DawdyGoodall Barr Township Town Fund Harold & Barbara Clark Irene Engelhaupt In memory of Larry Samson Ralph & Pat Schulte Susan D. McKenzie Joanne S. Andring Edith A. Helming Pawnee Senior Citizens Flower Mark & Lisa Petoskey Mauricio Vasquez Marcela I. Ortega Joan Sturdy Gayle & Dirk Eilers Monica Cimarossa Dennis & Mary Clarke Larry & Kathryn Hamblin TASSCC, Inc. In memory of Stephen A. Schiefer Sr. Eileen & Allan Solek In memory of Mathilde Johanna Dorothea Schmidt Gary & Donna Rushing Charles & Cynthia Handy In memory of Patricia Scoggins Grace Ebken In memory of Robin L. Sherry Penny Russell Melanie Dineen In memory of Andrew Stasukinas Jeff Thomas Vanessa Hebda Mark & Lisa Grigiski In memory of Charles R. Staub Operations & Maintenance Department Springfield School District 186 In memory of George B. Stericker, Jr. Angerl Brown In memory of Kathy Davis Stittsworth Marilyn Kennedy Bill & Mary Schnirring In memory of Martin Sutherland Ireta L. Gasner Christopher Thomas Robert Schofield In memory of Randy Stahl Donald & Judith Cully Teamsters Local Union No. 916 In memory of Kathy Davis Stittsworth Louis & June Myers Robert Blythe & Rev. Julie Blythe Sabrina M. Manci William & Barbara Trine In memory of Dean Sweitzer Mark & Kelly Jacob In memory of Richard Thomas Anna Mae Handshy In memory of Ann Traeger Laurie Traeger Karen & William Defrates Ray & Helen Traeger Karen Reside In memory of Jeremy Tribble Jamie E. Ursch Kellie J. Bavetta 18 B. Lucille Hundley Donald & Stefany Henson Margaret L. Boggs Robert & Lillian Cawley Bernard & Thelma Dozier Brenda M. Allen In memory of Richard “Dick” Tutt Don & Laurie Bradley Douglas & Janet York Anthony & Hylia Graham Terry & Debra Neathery Charles & Denise Ambrose In memory of Hal Walden Betty & Stephen Walden In memory of Lowell Walley Tom & Martha Green Bobby & Carol Chilton Lyle & Joyce Klay Jim & Mary Jo Lobmaster John & Shelley Simpson Tim & Jean Ann Bollinger Susan Walley Sandra Ransdell In memory of Lydie Wilson Vynn Walter Brian Pier William & Barbara Rogers Alan Sender Don Munson Bill Sulaski Darrell Hartweg Paul Young Jim Walker Rich Stroyan Dave Snyder Lynn Cheeseman Alan Sender In memory of Sally Young Sandra S. Laurent Sarah A. Young PET MEMORIALS In memory of my beloved pet Keiko Jan Chamberlain In memory of Barkey, much-loved and very special cat of Karen LeSeure; he is deeply missed Judy Nesbitt Edith Cape Diane Cape In memory of my beloved pet Ari Tracy Zeman In memory of our beloved dog August Larry & Deborah Griffiths In memory of Toto, beloved dog of Alix Means Judy Nesbitt In memory of Rawley, beloved dog of Karen & Gary Adkin; he is deeply missed Diane Cape In memory of my beloved dog Lexi Carol Anderson In memory of Shirley Ross’ granddog Bamm Bamm Jeanne In memory of my beloved dog Bambi Lynn Marcia Strow In memory of Scott Woodward’s beloved dog Monty Carl Woodward Melanie Shobe Kimberly Roberts Jessica Woodward Maria Lamb Philip Wegeng Penny Hopwood Steven & Deborah Ripley Sheryl Daugherty Etta Whitted Audrey Ball In memory of my beloved dog Tug Linda Howk In memory of our beloved dog Shaggy Kathy & Gary Brown In memory of beloved Peanuts & Fudge Anonymous In memory of our beloved cat Kipper, taken too soon by a tragic accident on April 30 Gary & Donna Moore In memory of Anna Friedman’s & Jeff Kitchen’s beloved pets Gypsy & Oscar Mark Montri & Adrienne Sheely In memory of my beloved pet Penny Shannon Bradley In memory of my beloved pet Tucker Julie Thompson In memory of Rosie, beloved dog of Ruth Robert Roland Malinda Craig In memory of our beloved first cat Macie Roxy & Kenneth Vennell In memory of Rufus, beloved dog of the Wenda family Audrey Dunn Windisch In memory of our beloved pet Bugsy David & Cynthia Schleyhahn In memory of our beloved pet Tinsly Margie Douglas In memory of Lily, loving Lab of Doug & Cathy Slater Kevin & Carolyn Proctor In memory of Scruffy, beloved dog of Hal Walden Betty & Stephen Walden In memory of Sally Cadagin’s beloved pet Tigger Dave & Wanda Keil In memory of our beloved pet Molly Steve & Diane Baggerly In memory of Gabby Sue, beloved pet of Ann Muenstermann Beverly Wiersma In memory of Blackie, beloved pet of Jan Rudecki Carol Brigman In memory of our beloved pet Mario Jeff & Brenda Price In memory of Tori Ann, beloved cat of Willi Kulick Laurie Karman In memory of my beloved Boston terrier, Lady Belle Shelby Harbison In memory of Lady Belle, much-loved dog of Shelby Harbison Barbara Mehlenbeck In memory of beloved pet Baylor Lora Banta In memory of a most unique and beloved cat, Ruddy Lee Margaret Fenley In memory of Bunnie, beloved pet of Rose Russell Mai Britt In memory of Allie, beloved dog of Mr. & Mrs. Scottie Bevill Kevin & Carolyn Proctor In memory of Shaggy, beloved companion of Kathy Brown Sue & Charles Byerly In memory of Larry, beloved dog of Judy Burnette Nancy Wadington In memory of Shadow, beloved dog of Tom Bartlett, who also passed away recently; may Tom & his dear Shadow both rest in peace Shelley Small In memory of our beloved pet Vader Dave Garrison, Devin Reynolds & Sandy Ray In memory of my beloved dog Nicholas Herb Kiel In memory of Muffin, beloved companion of Sharon & John Kwedar Sally, Julie, Janie & Pat In memory of Michael & Melissa Long’s beloved puppy Pennylane Suzanne Bell In memory of our deeply loved dog Sierra Raph, Raegan, Macalister & Jeter SPECIAL NOTICES In honor of Kim Rusciolelli’s recent birthday Cindy Lash In honor of Rose Hutches on the occasion of Phoebe’s 12th ; thanks for saving her! Nancy & Ken Ruby In honor of dedicated cat sitters Carol, Sally, Laura, Sue & Angie Dave & Wanda Keil To thank APL for the joy your animal visits bring to the residents of Mill Creek Markay & Robert Saltmarsh In honor of Lucy ANIMAL PROTECTIVE LEAGUE Events scheduled to benefit APL Underdog Crawl is a new downtown event scheduled for Aug. 1 to benefit APL. Teams will travel to participating locations and complete a “challenge” which could be physical, intellectual, etc. as created by each bar. Grand prize will be a night out for 20 people. Other prizes will be awarded. The after party will be at the Brickhouse Downtown the night of the event. For information call 217.341.2969 or email [email protected] APL, in cooperation with the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library, will take part in Pets in the White House on Sept. 12, to be held in the courtyard in front of Union Station. This family-friendly event will include displays and infor- mation about pets who lived in the White House. There will be a lot going on during this fun-filled day. APL plans to have a booth and possibly adoptions. Stay tuned. APL, with animal-lovers and animal welfare organizations world-wide, will unite on Thursday, Sept. 24, with a Remember Me Thursday pet candle-lighting ceremony and dog walk. Candles, lit on the same day around the world, will honor the millions of pets who lost their lives without benefit of a loving home. It also will shine a light on the millions of healthy pets who still wait to be adopted. Local sponsorship proceeds will benefit APL. For information contact Deb Bonner, 217.544.PETS (7387). Adopt me! I’m Gus, a two-yearold Lab mix with lots of energy. I love fetching, playing tug-of-war, and running. If you are a runner, take me with you! Meet me at the shelter any day from noon to 5 p.m. UPCOMINGEVENTS Christmas in July Carnival . . . . . . . . . . July 11 APL Vaccine Clinic . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . July 18 Adopt-A-Con . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . July 25 Underdog Crawl . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . August 1 State Fair parking . . . . . . . . . . . . August 13–23 APL Vaccine Clinic. . . . . . . . . . . . . . August 22 APL Kitten Circus . . . . . . . . . . . August 24–29 Pets in the White House . . . . . . September 12 APL Vaccine Clinic. . . . . . . . . . . September 19 Remember Me Thursday Dog Walk . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . September 24 Route 66 Mother Road Festival September 26 Blessing of the Animals . . . . . . . . . . October 4 Boo Bark Party in the Park . . . . . . October 10 APL Vaccine Clinic . . . . . . . . . . . . October 17 Feline Fanciers Cat Show . . . . . . . . October 17 APL Chili Supper . . . . . . . . . . . . . . October 25 Illinois State Fair is coming! T hat central Illinois summer institution of food, carnival rides, exhibits and shows known as the state fair will be here before we know it. Fair dates this year are Aug. 13 – 23. Remember needy animals while indulging in fair frivolity by parking your car on APL grounds. Since APL is conveniently located a bit north and across the street from Gate 6 on the north side of the fair grounds, it is an easy place to park your car and help APL animals. APL will be among other animal welfare organizations that will present animals for adoption at Conservation World, so stop by and make some new friends. Special Notices — continued Virginia McCue In honor of Rick Johnson’s 60th birthday Connie Cranford In honor of Moshe the dog, up for adoption Douglas Turner In honor of Dorian Cathy Kent In appreciation to my thoughtful neighbor Mr. Theivagt for kindly TAILS FROM THE FURSIDE / SUMMER 2015 removing snow from my driveway Jean Simpson In honor of Pat Bensken in lieu of a birthday gift Mike & Sandy Rychel In honor of Sandy Rychel in lieu of a birthday gift Pat Bensken In honor of from Ariel & Samantha Melinda Isaacs In honor of attorney Mike Durr Mark & Barb Rabin Stephen Oullett Gayle DiMaggiio In honor of all animal lovers Judy Rockford Merry Christmas 19 Non-Profit Organization U.S. Postage PAID Permit No. 944 Springfield IL 1001 Taintor Road • Springfield IL 62702-1766 SHELTER HOURS Noon to 5 p.m. every day of the week SHELTER PHONE: 217.544.7387 APL WEB SITE: www.apl-shelter.org APL SHELTER EMAIL ADDRESS [email protected] AVAILABLEFORADOPTION GIPSY Gipsy SQUIRT & MILO in motion is something to see. Her ears fly up and she smiles as she tears across the play yard. At six years old Gipsy is a family friendly combination of get-up-and-go and time-to-relax-withmy-people. This friendly Labrador mix knows how to sit and is eager for you to teach her new commands. STEWART Just a big puppy, Stewart wants to spend this summer getting to know his new owner and doing the things a dog wants to do in warm weather: run, lounge, and enjoy a shady spot to rest. He is good with other dogs, so if you are looking for an energetic canine family member, be sure to meet Stewart. WILSON He’s such a snuggler that it’s no wonder Wilson wants to be an only pet. This Greyhound pit bull mix likes nothing more than hanging out with older kids and adults who can restrain some of his exuberance. Wouldn’t you like to see his smiling face after a walk or romp in the yard? One photo of this pair says it all: Squirt (black) and Milo (grey) are bonded cats who want to live together. The two are happy to relax together and enjoy a good bath, but that doesn’t mean they won't have time for you! Squirt and Milo like people, and they’d love to have a home of their own again. Make them and yourself happy by taking this wonderful pair of adult cats into your home. ROBBIE He’s a little bit shy, but scratch his ears and you’ll have him swooning over you. Just a bit more than a year old, Robbie is just the fellow to cheer up your days and evenings. And if you already have a cat and want another, you will definitely want to meet Robbie! MINERVA If Minerva were human, she’d be considered an introvert . . . and some of your best friends are introverted, right? So don’t pass up this pretty twoyear-old who just wants to get to know a person before she reveals too much about herself—like how if you take it slowly she will reward you with kitty kisses. If you want a best friend to share your quiet home. Minerva is the gal for you. Check out these great cats and dogs—and lots of others—any afternoon from noon to 5 p.m. at APL’s shelter, 1001 Taintor Road, north of the Illinois State Fairgrounds.