CLEVELAND, Ohio — When Nigel arrived at the Cleveland Animal Protective League, the 3-year-old Labrador-pit bull mix could barely walk.
Abandoned at a local animal hospital, he suffered from a painful rectal prolapse and leg deformities so severe he moved on his wrists.
Veterinarians at the APL performed emergency surgery and X-rays, then sent him to an orthopedic specialist for care that went far beyond what the shelter could provide. With months of splints, therapy and round-the-clock attention from foster volunteers, Nigel slowly learned to walk on all four feet for the first time. His recovery, staff said, was possible only through the APL’s Second Chance Program, which provides advanced medical treatment for animals with serious injuries or illnesses.
The program will be supported by the Cleveland Animal Protective League’s Fur Ball Gala on Saturday, Nov. 1, at the InterContinental Cleveland Hotel. The annual event celebrates stories like Nigel’s and raises money to help other animals in need.
Themed “Shake, Rattle & Roll Over,” this year’s gala will bring a 1950s sock-hop atmosphere to one of the APL’s biggest fundraisers, complete with retro outfits, gourmet food, signature drinks and live and silent auctions. Proceeds will help provide medical treatment for animals suffering from severe illness or injury.
Sharon Harvey, president and CEO of the Cleveland APL, said the night is both a celebration and a call to action.
“Our annual Fur Ball Gala is a celebration of the second chances we are able to provide to our shelter animals thanks to our community’s incredible support,” Harvey said. “We hope that you will join us for a memorable evening that not only celebrates these remarkable animals but also helps us to continue our mission to foster compassion and end animal suffering.”
Nigel’s foster caregiver, who later adopted him, said the journey was demanding but rewarding.
“Physically, it was hard for him. It was physically hard, emotionally hard, just knowing what he had gone through before he came to us,” said Katie Zehr. “His tail never stops wagging. Despite what he was living through and the condition that he was in, he just loved people. He loved everything.”
Today, Nigel can run, play and explore like any other dog, which the APL says is a testament to what community support can achieve.
Each year, the APL selects a new “very important pooch,” or VIP, whose story is revealed during the program. This year’s VIP remains a surprise. APL staff said the reveal is an emotional highlight for guests, showing firsthand how their support makes a life-changing difference.
Cristy Aul, the APL’s events manager, said the gala’s retro theme adds a lighthearted touch to an evening rooted in compassion.
“This year’s ‘Shake, Rattle & Roll Over’ brings the spirit of a 1950s sock hop to life,” Aul said. “Many of our guests love to dress up, and this theme offers a playful opportunity to don their best retro garb. We encourage everyone to come in their finest poodle skirts, leather jackets and saddle shoes.”
The event begins at 5:30 p.m. Guests attending in person will enjoy gourmet food stations, raffles and auctions, while virtual participants can bid online, donate during the Fund-A-Need paddle raiser and watch the full program hosted by WKYC’s Monica Robins. Virtual guests also receive a complimentary 2026 Cleveland APL calendar.
Auction items include vacation packages to Key West and Arizona, a Sonoma Wine Country experience, the chance to throw out the first pitch at a Cleveland Guardians game and a spot for a pet to appear on the cover of the 2027 APL calendar.
Aul said every bid and ticket sale makes a tangible impact.
“The Fur Ball gives us a chance to share a lot about our programs and services, so it’s really more than a fundraiser for us,” she said. “It’s a platform to share our mission far and wide.”
In-person tickets are $250, virtual tickets are $50 and a patron table for 10 is $2,500. The RSVP deadline is Friday, Oct. 10. Sponsorships range from $650 to $10,000.
Diamond-level sponsors include Fetch Pet Insurance, Cynthia Hazleton, Dealer Tire, Hills Pet Nutrition and MWI Animal Health.
Aul encouraged supporters to stay involved beyond the gala.
“Adopt, Donate, Volunteer and Advocate! Whether you are able to open your home to a pet, give your time, or spread the word about our mission, your support helps us continue our mission every day,” she said.
