Animal Care & Control Appreciation Week, celebrated April 12–18 this year, is an annual event that recognizes and promotes the important work of animal control officers and animal service professionals who dedicate countless hours to protecting both the public and animals. The week is sponsored by the National Animal Care & Control Association and aims to provide support and encouragement while recognizing the tireless contributions of animal control officers and staff across the country.

Will County is proud to honor its Animal Protection Services Department and highlight the vital work of Animal Protection Services Officers (APSOs) and staff who serve on the front lines of public safety and animal welfare. Just like any law enforcement professional, APSO’s are compassionate and committed individuals who work every day to ensure the safety of people, and animals.

The Will County Animal Protection Services (WCAPS) staff play an essential role in enforcing animal welfare laws, protecting the public from diseases such as rabies and investigating reports of animal cruelty and neglect.

WCAPS staff also respond to calls for assistance, educate pet owners about responsible animal care, provide care for homeless animals in Will County, and provide resources to keep animals with their families.  In addition, the department works to reunite lost pets with their owners and helps find temporary foster care and permanent homes for animals in need.

In 2025, Will County Animal Protection Services have provided care for 884 animals including dogs, cats, chickens, horses, donkeys, rabbits, goats, turtles, a sugar glider, and fish.  WCPAPS also investigated over 2,300 animal-related complaints, demonstrating the important role the department plays in protecting animals and supporting community safety.

Will County invites residents to join in celebrating Animal Care & Control Appreciation Week by showing appreciation for the hardworking men and women who protect and serve our community’s animals. Together, the community can recognize their contributions and honor their dedication to making Will County a safer and more compassionate place for all.

How Residents Can Show Their Appreciation

Animal lovers wanting to show their appreciation for WCAPS staff can:

  • Donate to the shelter!  Currently WCAPS is looking for dog treats, dog toys, non-clumping cat litter, wet cat food, wet dog food, kitten formula KMR, laundry detergent, and bleach.  Donations can be dropped off from April 13-17 between 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. at Will County Animal Protection Services or the Will County Executive office.  Donations can also be dropped off anytime during the week at the New Lenox Fire Department, Station 1 located at 261 E. Maple Street.   
  • Say Thanks: Send a card, email, or post on social media using hashtags such as #AnimalControlAppreciationWeek  #AnimalProtectionServices  #WCAPS
  • Support Local Agencies: Donate pet supplies or food to the WCAPS shelter
  • Be a Responsible Pet Owner: Ensure pets are licensed, vaccinated, tagged, and microchipped
  • Highlight Their Work: Share stories about how WCAPS has helped your community.
  • Adopt, Don’t Shop: If you’re looking to expand your family, consider adopting from Will County Animal Protection Services, Joliet Township Animal Control, DuPage County Animal Services, Kankakee County Animal Control, Dupage County Animal Services, or Grundy County Animal Control.

For more information about Will County Animal Protection Services, visit the WillCounty.gov/Animal Services, follow them on Facebook at @willcountyanimalservices or Instagram @willcountyaps, or contact the department directly at 815-462-5633.  Adoptable pets are available on PetFinder.com.