Helping Animals in Crisis: The Ashtabula County Animal Protective League’s Urgent Call for Help
In the heart of Ashtabula, Ohio, the Ashtabula County Animal Protective League (ACAPL) finds itself grappling with an unprecedented crisis. The shelter, designed for a much smaller population, is overwhelmed and desperately seeking assistance.
A Pressing Need
On July 22, the ACAPL received 15 additional dogs and 25 cats from various humane cases. These recent intakes have compounded a dire situation, bringing the total number of animals under their care to a staggering 257—126 dogs and 131 cats. This number far exceeds the shelter’s capacity and highlights the urgent need for support from the community.
According to the ACAPL, this situation is critical; they have confirmed that the current population is more than double the number of animals the facility can adequately house. “Dogs are in half-kennels. Crates are stacked with cats. We are out of space,” the organization stated, illuminating the challenges they face daily.
Calling for Compassionate Hearts
Desperate times call for compassionate measures. “It takes a tremendous amount of hands and hearts to save this many animals—and we could really use your help,” ACAPL has conveyed. The organization emphasizes that these animals rely on human advocates to ensure their well-being: “They have no voice but ours. Let’s not let them down.”
How You Can Help
There are several impactful ways you can contribute to the ACAPL’s mission and directly enhance the lives of these deserving animals.
1. Adopt
With numerous wonderful animals seeking loving homes, adoption is a vital way to help. Each adoption opens a spot for another animal in need. “We have so many amazing animals waiting for homes; every animal that is adopted saves the life of another,” the ACAPL noted.
If you’re ready to open your heart to a furry friend, you can contact the shelter at 440-224-1222 or via email at adoptions@acapl.org.
Adoption fees include:
- Up-to-date vaccinations
- Spay/neuter surgery
- Microchip
- A lifetime of love!
2. Foster
For those who may not be able to commit to adoption, fostering is an excellent alternative. Providing a temporary home can be life-saving for many animals, easing the shelter’s burden during this critical time.
3. Monetary Donations
Financial contributions are always needed and appreciated. Currently, the ACAPL estimates a $250 gap for dog preparations and $100 for cats compared to the fees charged for adoption.
If you’re interested in making a monetary donation, simply click on their website link or find them on Venmo under @acapl.
4. Item Donations
Physical items also make a huge difference. The ACAPL is urgently in need of supplies such as:
- Dry dog food (Purina Dog Chow/Purina One)
- Soft dog treats
- Canned pumpkin
- Cleaning supplies like bleach
- Leashes and collars
You can conveniently order items from the ACAPL’s wish lists on Amazon or Chewy for direct delivery to the shelter.
5. Volunteer Your Time
If you’re unable to donate money or items, consider offering your time by volunteering at ACAPL. The organization needs extra hands for dog walking, cat cuddling, cleaning, and more. Email Ashley Steed at asteed@acapl.org or call 440-224-1222 to learn how you can help.
6. Become an Advocate
Engagement at a corporate or board level is also a way to make a substantial impact. Interested parties can reach out to Executive Director Catena Shore at cshore@acapl.org.
The Future of ACAPL
Located at 5970 Green Rd. in Ashtabula, the Animal Protective League is calling all members of the community—Dog lovers, cat enthusiasts, or anyone with a warm heart—to step in and lend a hand. Whether you adopt, foster, donate, volunteer, or advocate, every action transforms lives.
The ACAPL is determined to continue its mission of rescuing and caring for animals in need and with community support, they can do just that. Your involvement is essential for creating a brighter future for these animals. Let’s rally together to uplift the voiceless friends who depend on us.
