Apple - Labrador Retriever and Mixed Breed Dog for Adoption in Wheeling, Illinois

Apple is at our shelter. Please submit an application from our website or just come in to meet her during open hours!

Sweet Apple is an almost 5-year-old female Black Lab mix who came to Wheeling, IL via rural Alabama. She is ready to trade her traveling days for a forever home filled with love, comfort, and plenty of belly rubs.

Apple is a quiet, shy girl who may need a little time to come out of her shell, but that gentle nature is part of what makes her so endearing. She may be a big girl, but she is meek and soft-natured, and we love a gentle giant! Once she feels safe, you'll see the sweet personality hiding behind those beautiful eyes. She's the kind of dog who may quietly sit by your side rather than demand the spotlight, and somehow, that makes you love her even more.

At her age, Apple is past the puppy craziness but still young enough to enjoy walks, playtime, and adventures with her people. More than anything, she's looking for someone patient and kind who will give her the time and reassurance she needs to blossom.

Apple loves other dogs, and was fostered in Alabama in a home with several dogs. Here, she is roomies with Marina who shares her laid back lifestyle.

Her foster reported that she is totally house trained, too.

Apple has so much love to give and is hoping her next chapter will be her forever one. She deserves a family who will show her that the world can be a safe and wonderful place and remind her every day that she is cherished.

Could you be the person Apple has been waiting for?

Apple's adoption fee is $300. This animal is spayed and is up to date on core vaccines.

Apple is Heartworm positive and is undergoing treatment with us. Heartland will cover the cost of treatment until she is Heartworm negative.

Heartworm disease is common in dogs throughout the United States. It is a mosquito-borne disease and is not contagious to humans or other pets.

We treat dozens of heartworm positive dogs a year, mostly from the south. If left untreated, heartworm infection can be deadly. However, her Heartworm infection was identified and is being treated, and the prognosis is excellent.

Heartworm disease is both preventable and curable. Once cured, a normal quality of life can be expected.

It is important for all dogs to stay on lifelong Heartworm prevention, as even Heartworm positive dogs can be reinfected at any time if not current on preventions.

Apple is on a 28 day course of antibiotics, after which she will receive three injections to treat her Heartworm (the first one will be on 9/29/26; with the final two on 10/27 and 10/28). All treatments will take place at our shelter with our veterinarian.

That will complete the treatment, but she will need a quick retest at the adopter's vet 9 months post-treatment to make sure that she is Heartworm-free.

The Labrador Retriever is a popular and versatile dog breed known for its friendly demeanor and high intelligence. These dogs are often used as guide dogs for the visually impaired, search and rescue dogs, and excellent family pets. Labradors are known for their great sense of smell, strong build, and love of water, making them exceptional hunters and swimmers. With their loyal and loving nature, Labradors have rightfully earned their reputation as one of the most beloved dog breeds in the world.

The mixed breed dogs, often referred to as mutts, are a diverse and unique group with a blend of different characteristics from various purebred dog breeds. These dogs come from a mixture of lineages, resulting in a wide range of sizes, coat types, and temperaments. While each mixed breed dog is distinct in its own right, they are known for their resilience, adaptability, and often have fewer health issues compared to purebred dogs due to their genetic diversity. Mixed breed dogs make wonderful companions for families looking for a loyal and one-of-a-kind pet.

Heartland Animal Shelter is a no-kill shelter and a non-profit, 501(c)(3) organization.  We depend on your donations in order to...