Shelter Director Shannon Eastman said the organization, which has served the Tri-County area for years, is struggling due to a significant decline in donations. The shelter is currently working to raise $75,000 to maintain operations while awaiting the sale of its neighboring K-9 Center property.
“We love making an impact in this community, and we’re faced with the reality of what the lack of donations could mean, including possibly closing our doors,” Shannon said. “That’s a huge concern because I believe we make a meaningful impact throughout the area.”
According to shelter staff, Granny Rose has provided more than 500 low-cost vaccines to local pets and has helped more than 1,000 families through emergency pet food assistance programs designed to keep animals in their homes.
The shelter reports it is approximately halfway toward its $75,000 fundraising goal through donations received online and pledged contributions expected in the coming weeks. However, staff say additional support is needed to bridge the remaining gap.
Animal Care staff expressed concern about the future of several difficult-to-place dogs currently housed at the shelter. Some animals require additional time and specialized care due to fear, anxiety, or behavioral challenges that make adoption more difficult.
“If the shelter were to close, there are dogs here that many other rescues would not be able to take,” Assistant Director Kalena Dixon explained. “These animals deserve the time and opportunity to find the right home.”
Granny Rose operates entirely through community donations and receives no city, county, or state funding.
Feline Manager Marc Arulfo highlighted several community programs that could be impacted if the shelter closes. Among them is the shelter’s partnership with the PADS Homeless Shelter through the Stevie Project, which temporarily cares for pets while individuals experiencing homelessness work to regain stable housing.
The shelter currently cares for animals participating in the program and has successfully reunited numerous pets with their families.
“We believe in keeping families together,” Marc said. “Without Granny Rose, these animals may lose their opportunity to be reunited with the people who love them.”
The organization also provides vaccine clinics, rabies vaccinations, microchipping services, and other preventative care programs that benefit pet owners throughout Lee County and surrounding communities.
Beyond animal welfare, the shelter partners with the Sauk Valley Impact Program, community service participants, and local volunteers, offering educational and volunteer opportunities for residents.
Shelter leaders are encouraging community members to support the organization through donations, volunteer work, pet adoptions, and by sharing the fundraising campaign with others.
Those wishing to contribute can make one-time or recurring donations through the shelter’s website, grannyroseanimalshelter.org, or contact Granny Rose Animal Shelter at (815) 288-7387 for more information.
“No donation is too small,” Shannon said. “We’re asking the community for a second chance so we can continue providing second chances to animals and the people who love them.”
