West Cook News

The City of Evanston and Cook County have officially opened the new Evanston Animal Shelter at 2310 Oakton Street. The facility addresses regional overcrowding and provides housing for animals impounded by Cook County’s Department of Animal and Rabies Control.

The event was attended by county officials, city staff, members of the Evanston Animal Shelter Association (EASA) Board, and other elected officials. They celebrated this development in animal welfare, sustainability, and community partnerships.

Since 2015, the City of Evanston has collaborated with EASA to serve local animals. The city owns and maintains the shelter building while EASA operates it as a no-kill, open-admission facility. The new shelter strengthens this partnership.

Remarks were given by Mayor Daniel Biss, Congresswoman Jan Schakowsky, Cook County Board President Toni Preckwinkle, among others. They highlighted the collaboration that made the facility possible and its role in serving animals and the community.

“This facility will allow us to care for more animals in need while also enabling us to meet our green energy goals,” said Mayor Daniel Biss. “It’s a testament to what we can achieve when we come together as a community."

President Preckwinkle stated, “The County’s contribution to help build this new facility ensures animals found throughout the County continue to have a safe and comfortable environment.”

The 8,800-square-foot building was funded by $2.85 million from Cook County's grant program along with contributions from the City of Evanston and EASA, reaching an estimated cost of $7.2 million. It includes amenities like a medical suite and isolation areas for sick animals.

Vicky Pasenko, Executive Director of the Evanston Animal Shelter, noted that "this new facility will finally give our animals the space they deserve while allowing us to expand our community programs."

A ceremonial “dog treat breaking” was held during the event with Zeus, a rescue dog from the shelter making an appearance.

The shelter will host an Open House on October 6th and begin adoptions on October 12th.

For more information about services offered by the Evanston Animal Shelter visit evanstonanimalshelter.net or call/text 847-866-5082.