February 4, 2012 German Valley, IL: Critter Camp Exotic Pet Sanctuary located in German Valley in northwestern IL is home to over 350 small abandoned, abused and otherwise homeless exotic and unusual small pets of 30 different types. In operation for over 9 years this unique rescue takes in most of their animals from shelters where they were to be euthanized because of advanced age, chronic illness, aggression, or excessive fearfulness. The animals come from all across the country, from as far away as New York and Texas to live out their lives in this only one of its kind safe haven. Some of these pets were found in dumpsters and trash cans, some confiscated due to abuse. A few of the more exotic pets like fennec foxes come specifically to Critter Camp from loving owners who have had financial or health issues because of Critter Camp's national reputation for stellar care.
Tourists come from all over the world to visit the animals at Critter Camp. Up to 1000 people a year currently tour the sanctuary coming from as far away as England, Canada and even Ethiopia. Critter Camp also gives educational presentations to area schools, libraries, and other groups.
Currently operated out of the director's home, Critter Camp is above capacity and ready to move to a new larger facility to give more animals a caring safe place to live out their lives. The 501c3 non-profit organization recently purchased 3 acres on Smokey Hollow Road just east of Freeport, IL with funds won in the Pepsi Refresh Everything contest. This land is already zoned and ready to build on!
This new building will utilize solar and wind power, composting, a greenhouse and garden among other eco-friendly operations. The facility will draw an estimated 10,000 visitors per year to the area thus greatly increasing tourism traffic here in the Northwest Corridor.
The facility will eventually have several paid positions, adding jobs to the area economy as well.
To fund construction of the building Critter Camp is kicking off their capital campaign by selling engraved porcelain tiles. All tiles will be ash gray with black infill and will be strategically placed on the interior walls as you enter the new facility and on the information desk base for maximum exposure. Interior tiles were chosen over bricks so they will be visible year round, never obstructed by snow cover.