Editor’s note: Read more about the shelter in a feature story scheduled for the June 23 paper.
Just three years ago, the Brown County Humane Society made the decision to pursue a capital campaign to secure $3.2 million to build a much-needed new shelter. It was a lofty goal, but they knew it needed to happen to better the lives of the animals in their care.
Last week, this vision became a reality.
On Saturday, June 12, over 40 animals made the short trip from the current, 34-year-old animal shelter to their new temporary home. It was an exciting day for all involved, especially the animals. They are now enjoying an environment that is better for their mental and physical health. Dogs are no longer forced to spend their day staring at one another, cats are able to free-roam in community rooms, and both are able to enjoy an amazing view with outdoor living spaces. The benefits to the animals (and staff) are too numerous to list!
With the new shelter comes a change in the way the organization has been operating since the beginning of the pandemic.
In order to give staff time to settle into a new routine, the shelter will be closed through Tuesday, June 15. It will reopen on Wednesday, June 16 with normal business hours. The shelter will be open to the public from noon to 5 p.m. every day except Tuesdays and Thursdays. While appointments will no longer be required, they are still highly encouraged and will be given priority over walk-in visitors.
The move to the new facility will also allow for the full return of volunteers at the shelter. Immediate openings are available for morning animal care and afternoon shelter assistants. Animal care volunteers will assist staff in cleaning and preparing animals for meeting potential adopters. Afternoon assistants will serve as ambassadors greeting visitors, answering phones and helping with other tasks as needed. If you are interested in volunteering, complete an online adoption application (www.bchumane.org/volunteer) and Megan Gushwa, community relations manager, will call to discuss the opportunities available in more detail.
The shelter will welcome the community to share in a grand opening celebration on Saturday, July 17 from noon to 3 p.m. This new facility was only possible thanks to the generous support of the BCHS community of supporters. The board and staff are thrilled to be able to celebrate this great achievement with those who made it possible and hope that you will attend to join the festivities.
— Brown County Humane Society
