About Portage APL

History

Portage APL began as a grassroots organization in the early 1950’s. After filing articles of incorporation in the spring of 1955, we became the first nonprofit humane organization in Portage County. Our original goals were to prevent cruelty and neglect, enforce humane laws, and inform the public of its legal responsibilities in the care and handling of animals.

The APL’s first formal home was a barn behind the county home on Infirmary Road, very close to where the shelter is today. The shelter then moved to Lake Street in Ravenna where it remained for over 40 years. In 1999, a capital campaign supported by volunteers, staff, Board members, and the community raised funds for a new building. The current shelter on Infirmary Road opened in December 2002, providing a modern, well-equipped facility to house and care for homeless companion animals. The shelter now includes 25 adult dog runs and room for up to 60 cats.

Mission

Portage Animal Protective League is a private, non-profit organization, dedicated to the advancement of animal welfare and responsible pet ownership. In support of the mission: we shelter and find safe homes for injured, abused, surrendered, and abandoned animals, uphold and enforce all animal cruelty laws, reduce pet overpopulation through spay/neuter programs, and educate the community on the social responsibility associated with pet ownership.

Vision

We envision an educated and caring community that recognizes and respects the rights of animals to receive humane and compassionate treatment and actively supports efforts to ensure their welfare.