“But we are asking the community to help us out. We can’t do it all by ourselves.”

Elmore SPCA President Karen Dziomba said the shelter’s board of directors, members and volunteers have been “desperately fundraising” to cover the financial crisis.

“We’ve been doing membership drives, participating in community events, sending out newsletters and directly appealing to people.”

The shelter held a “Have-A-Heart” fundraiser in Champlain Centre mall last February that raised almost $900.

“That is a good amount for a fundraiser,” Solari-Ruscoe said. “But $900 just barely covered the medical expenses of one dog, Sadie.

“We have a hundred more animals that need food and medical attention, too.”

The Elmore SPCA plans to hold more drives and fundraisers in the coming months, including two annual membership drives in April.

“More volunteers and members are great,” Dziomba said. “But we really need money.

“All animals deserve a second chance and need a safe haven until they get that chance, but Elmore won’t be able to help if we can’t raise at least half the money by June.”

Solari-Ruscoe knelt down to pet Sadie’s back and rub her floppy ears.

“She’s a beautiful dog,” she said.

She estimated it will cost another $500 for hip-replacement surgery and rehabilitation services for the beagle.

“I want to give her the attention she needs, but unless we raise $67,000 (by year’s end), I don’t know what the future will have in store for Sadie, let alone for our SPCA.”

To donate money, useful supplies or food to the shelter, go to: www.elmorespca.org.