Animal Shelters Feel Pinch Amid Coronavirus Shutdown

SOUTH ELGIN, IL — Animal shelters across the Chicago area are facing tough financial times as some cease adoptions, call off fundraisers and plan to take on more pets from those who have lost jobs and can no longer care for them. At the same time, rescue groups have seen a surge in people stepping up to foster pets, and at least one has shifted its focus to its pet food pantry to help families and their pets amid the government-mandated shutdown during the coronavirus outbreak.

Anderson Animal Shelter in South Elgin has temporarily suspended all adoptions and is looking into ways to "allow adoptions on a limited basis." In addition, all of its in-person programming has been called off.

Illinois Coronavirus Update April 2: Nearly 1,000 New Cases A Day

Don't miss updates about precautions in the Chicago area as they are announced. Sign up for Patch news alerts and newsletters.

"Because these programs have been suspended, so has the revenue they provide. Our adoption program alone provides nearly 50 percent of our operational income," according to information posted on Anderson's website.

The shelter currently has 200 dogs and cats in its care, many of which are in foster homes but still require veterinary care, medications, food and other supplies.

"COVID-19 has already begun to affect our ability to care for the homeless animals already in our care, let alone the animals who will come to us in need in the days and months ahead," according to Anderson officials.

Meanwhile, the animal shelter's largest fundraiser is scheduled for April 18, which is around the same time that COVID-19 cases are expected to spike in the state. Anderson is working to to change its A Night to Paws Gala fundraiser from an in-person to online event.

"We're working FAST to recreate this event, but we do not expect the online event to be nearly as successful as the in-person events of the past," according to information posted on Anderson's website. Donations can be made to Anderson Animal Shelter online, and you can also take a peek at the animals currently in need of homes.

Meanwhile, an animal shelter in Libertyville is shifting its focus to help families and their pets during these uncertain times. Our House of Hope Rescue, 1840 Industrial Drive in Libertyville, has restricted access to its rescue offices and is temporarily pouring its resources into its pet food pantry, "as that is our communities' greatest need during this difficult time," according to a post on the rescue group's Facebook page.

The pantry is planning to be stocked with food, toys and supplies as those items become available. Anyone who needs food assistance for their pets can call 773-552-4673 or e-mail ourhouseofhope@yahoo.com to see if they qualify. The animal shelter will be offering curbside pickup.

"The COVID-19 [pandemic] has forced people to temporarily close their businesses and has cost many people their jobs. Those same people are now forced with the potential of having to surrender their pets because they can no longer care for them," according to a Tuesday post on the Our House of Hope Rescue page. "If you need food and supplies due to the loss of income you are encouraged to stop by and visit and take advantage of our curbside services."

Animal House Shelter in Huntley has also seen a significant drop in donations and income to offset its costs while the organization scrambles to try and drum up the funds to continue to run its shelter, pay its staff and offer supplies for a "large number" of animals being cared for on site.

Like other shelters, the Huntley shelter is requesting donations and has gotten creative in its efforts.

In recent days, officials with the shelter announced anyone who sets up their own Facebook fundraiser for Animal House Shelter and raises more than $50 will be entered into a raffle to win a Animal House Shelter sweatshirt and water bottle. The drawing is set for April 1.

In addition, Animal House Shelter is partnering with area Lou Malnati's restaurants for a fundraiser on April 1. Twenty percent of total sales for those who mention the fundraiser and order at the Lakewood Lou Malnati's between 11 a.m. and 10 p.m. will be donated to Animal House Shelter.

A similar fundraiser is planned for 4 to 10 p.m. at Elgin and Barrington Road locations for carryout and delivery orders.

DONATE OR CHECK OUT PETS AVAILABLE FOR ADOPTION, FOSTERING

• Hoof Woof & Meow Animal Rescue in Gilberts
• Fur Keeps Animal Rescue in Barrington
• Anderson Animal Shelter in South Elgin
• Creme de la Creme Animal Foundation in Algonquin
• Helping Paws in Woodstock: Adoptable Dogs and Adoptable Cats
• Kay's Animal Shelter in Arlington Heights
• Orphans of the Storm Animal Shelter in Riverwoods
• Our House of Hope in Libertyville

RELATED CONTENT

• Ways To Give Back During The Coronavirus Shutdown
• Kane Co. Coronavirus Updates: PPE Donations Sought
• McBride's Sues Insurer After Bar, Restaurant Shutdown