Photo coming soon
Bailey
Golden Retriever Mix • Female • 2 years
Bailey is a sunshine-filled soul who loves belly rubs, long walks, and playing fetch until she drops. She's great with children and other dogs.
Meet Bailey
Currently Available
Meet our friends looking for you
Each of these wonderful animals has been fully vetted, vaccinated, and is ready to bring joy to a loving home. Come visit — the right one might just wait for you.
Photo coming soon
Mochi
Domestic Shorthair • Male • 1 year
Mochi is a curious little explorer with big personality. He adores window perches, chasing feather toys, and giving slow blinks to his favorite humans.
Meet MochiPhoto coming soon
Oscar
Labrador Retriever • Male • 10 years
Oscar is a dignified gentleman who enjoys slow strolls, sunny naps, and being a loving companion. He's perfect for a quiet home with someone who appreciates gentle souls.
Meet OscarPhoto coming soon
Luna
Siamese Mix • Female • 3 years
Luna is chatty, clever, and full of personality. She loves interactive play and will follow you from room to room, making sure you never miss a moment of her life.
Meet LunaPhoto coming soon
Rex
German Shepherd Mix • Male • 4 years
Rex is an athletic and loyal companion who thrives on activity. He's well-trained, knows his commands, and would be perfect for an active family or individual.
Meet RexPhoto coming soon
Duchess
Persian Mix • Female • 12 years
Duchess is a refined lady who loves long grooming sessions and cozy laps. She's the perfect companion for someone who wants a calm, affectionate friend.
Meet Duchess
Simple & Caring
How adoption works
We've made the process straightforward and friendly. Our goal is to help you find the right pet without any stress or confusion.
1
Browse & Connect
Look through our available pets online or visit our center. Take your time getting to know each animal's personality.
2
Meet & Greet
Schedule a visit to spend quality time with your potential new family member. We'll help facilitate a comfortable meeting.
3
Simple Application
Complete a brief, friendly application. We just want to make sure it's a good match for everyone involved.
4
Welcome Home!
Take your new family member home, complete with vaccinations, microchip, and a starter care kit. We're here for ongoing support.
Good to know
Our adoption fee covers vaccinations, spay/neuter, microchipping, and a health check. We also provide 30 days of complimentary support after adoption.
Real Stories
Happy tails from our community
Nothing makes us happier than hearing about the bonds being formed between our animals and their new families. Here are some of our favorite stories.
SSarah M.Adopted Daisy, a 3-year-old beagle mix
"I wasn't sure I was ready for a dog after moving to the city alone, but Daisy changed everything. Three months later, she's the reason I walk outside every day, make friends at the park, and feel truly at home. Second Tail made the whole process so easy and supportive."
JJames & Priya T.Adopted two senior cats, Winston and Cleo
"We decided to adopt senior cats because we wanted something quieter after our kids left for college. The team at Second Tail helped us find Winston and Cleo, a bonded pair. They've brought our empty house back to life with their purrs and gentle companionship."
MMarcus L.Adopted Rocky, a rescue pit bull mix
"Rocky had a rough start, but the Second Tail team worked with him and helped me understand exactly how to support him. People judge him for his breed before they know him — but he's the sweetest, most loyal dog I've ever had. He's literally saved my mental health."
Upcoming Events
Join us in person
Come meet our animals, learn about responsible pet ownership, and connect with fellow animal lovers. All events are free and open to the public.
Nov
15
Sip & Sniff Social
6:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Meet our dogs in a relaxed evening setting with complimentary drinks and light snacks. Great for first-time visitors!
RSVP now
Nov
22
Puppy Training 101
10:00 AM – 11:30 AM
New puppy parent? Join our certified trainer for basics on house training, socialization, and building good habits from day one.
RSVP now
Nov
29
Thankful Tails Fundraiser
11:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Our annual gratitude event with a bake sale, pet photoshoot, adoption meet-and-greets, and a raffle. All proceeds support our animals.
RSVP now
Get Involved
More than a shelter — a community
We wouldn't be where we are without our incredible volunteers. Whether you have an hour a week or ten, there's a meaningful way for you to help our animals.
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Walk dogs and socialize cats in our play area
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Help with foster care for animals needing special attention
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Assist at adoption events and community outreach
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Donate supplies, food, or professional skills
A
K
R
J
+338 other volunteers
"I started volunteering to help with my anxiety, but it ended up doing the opposite of what I expected — meeting the animals gave me so much joy and purpose. I've been coming every Saturday for two years now, and I wouldn't trade it for anything."
T
Tina R.
Volunteer, 2 years
Visit Our Center
Email
We'd love to see you
Stop by our center to meet our animals in person. Our friendly staff will help you explore, answer your questions, and guide you through the adoption process.
Our Location
247 Maplewood Avenue
Springfield, IL 62704
Hours
Mon–Fri: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Sat–Sun: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Phone
(217) 555-0142
hello@secondtail.org