Blue Island Stray Dog Project began in Fall of 2018. Dogs were housed in the old jail cells. I was brought in by one of the officers and were told we had 3 days to get the dogs out. Only one dog was transferred to the Animal Welfare League during those first 2 years. All the others were sent to rescue.

 

A couple rescue friends joined, and we began discussing how to make the life of the dogs better. New Kennels were provided by the city. We were given access to the garage. And so, it began.

 

Current Program

 

All supplies are donated from various places, or through fundraising. The only cost to the city has been when a dog has been euthanized due to behavior or illness.​

All medical and vetting is provided by BISDP.

All Volunteers are screened, and sign liability contracts.

Dogs are given daily walks, 2-3 times per day. They are taken to a volunteer’s yard for exercise, taken on car rides, and also spend time at the Fire Department.

 

The volunteers not only walk the dogs, but work on manners, provide much needed enrichment and healthy food. Dogs are taken by volunteers to get vaccines or to be neutered. Kennels are cleaned, and disinfected. 

 

Rescuers are contacted to see if they can pull any dogs. Because of the current country-wide epidemic of strays and owner surrenders, dogs can stay at the kennel for months. We have a partnership with rescues all around the Chicago area, and even Michigan. 

 

We have begun doing direct adoptions to help get the dogs out. They are fully vetted prior to leaving, and a contract is signed relieving PD of all liability once adopted. 

 

We are extremely thankful for the support of the Police Department, Fire Department, and the city. Huge shout out to Officer Dave Stone. He has been our liaison, and we are so blessed to have him as an advocate for the dogs, and our program.