Recession creating need for pet supplies
It's a heartbreaking situation that Cindy Rippa sees too often. An increasing number of responsible pet owners are forced to give away their beloved animals.
Rippa, who manages Underdog Rescue in Antioch, said the recession is taking a toll on pets and their owners.
"There are so many people who are losing their homes and moving into apartments. Many of the complexes won't take pets and so the families have to give them up," Rippa said.
And with an influx of dogs and cats, area shelters are in need of supplies their already tight budgets can't afford. Rippa said the number of animals brought to her organization is up 40 percent from last year.
But an Antioch woman with a volunteer spirit and a love for animals has stepped up to fill that need.
Arlene Anderson, 58, had an idea for a pet supply drive with the goods going to Save-A-Pet in Grayslake and Underdog in Antioch.
"I keep reading about all these people getting forced out of their homes and having to give up their animals," Anderson said. "I know the shelters are getting swamped and I felt like I wanted to help."
The Lake County Farm Bureau office is serving as a collection site for donated pet supplies through April. After getting the word out through the Farm Bureau's newsletter and other local media, the supplies are coming in.
"We've had a really good response so far," said Farm Bureau Information Director Andy Blaul. "We started getting towels and blankets at first, but now we're seeing food, toys and litter among other items."
Anderson and shelter officials have created a "wish-list" of items that includes crates, carriers, leashes, blankets, paper towels, and IAMS pet food.
Blaul said there is a drop off center at 906 Hillside Ave., Antioch, as well as the Farm Bureau office near routes 45 and 120 in Grayslake.
People who want to donate goods should call the Farm Bureau at (847) 223-6506.
"We have annual collections for things like used electronics, used motor oil and gym shoes, but this is the first time we've done anything like this," Blaul said. "I think we should do this next year too."