Food banks for people aren't the only ones stressed by downturn
It's a relatively new problem which those in the know are calling a sign of the times.
Several food banks and animal rescues in the Northwest suburbs are beginning to run low on pet food and supplies, creating the need for a donation drive specifically for animals.
"The food banks are the main thing," said Kathy Drelicharz, head fundraiser for Muddy Paws Kennels and Rescue in Deer Park.
The reason regular food banks are being emphasized as the main beneficiary of the drive is to help people keep their pets in their homes rather than abandoning them.
Most rescue groups that guarantee a no-kill policy don't accept animals directly from their owners, only strays.
Shelters do accept owners' pets, but can't make the same no-kill guarantee. However, sometimes people will simply let their animals loose with the uncertain hope they'll end up in a rescue, Drelicharz said.
The current pet food, supply and bedding drive runs through Nov. 14 and is being co-sponsored by three Barrington-area rescues. In addition to Muddy Paws there is also Fur Keeps Animal Shelter and Aid to Animals Rescue, which is specifically for cats.
These three rescues are not the primary beneficiaries of the drive, but are running it on behalf of four others in the area as well as for the local food banks, Drelicharz said.
Among the variety of things needed are canned and dry food, dog beds, blankets, towels, bowls, toys and treats.
The sponsors want to make sure cats aren't overlooked in the current drive. An earlier drive collected 4,000 pounds of dog food but only 500 pounds of cat food.
Muddy Paws itself is the main drop-off location for the drive, at 20429 N. Rand Road next to Potbelly in Deer Park. The phone number is (847) 540-9451.
Other locations are:
• Bentley's Corner Barkery, 90 W. Evergreen in Arlington Heights at (224) 735-2160.
• Kriser's Pet Supplies, 168 N. Northwest Highway in Park Ridge at (847) 685-0210.
• Animal Feeds & Needs, 401 W. Golf Road in Arlington Heights at (847) 437-4738.
• Wizard of Paws, 2306 Hassell Road in Hoffman Estates at (847) 882-9894.