Shelter Construction Progress – October, 2011
Recently several of us accompanied Janice Chatterton on a visit to the new SPCA shelter now under construction. It was thrilling to see our dream close to realization. There is still much work to be done so the photos included here are just to give you a basic idea of how the shelter will be laid out. We are happy to report that we are on schedule for our mid December completion date.
The entrance and reception area is approximately in the middle of the structure. To the left of the reception area will be the kitten nursery/viewing area; off to the other side the puppy nursery/viewing area. Large windows will allow them to be viewed in their sterile areas without direct contact. Directly behind the reception area will be the examination room.
If you are looking at the backside of the building you will see the kennel area, which accounts for approximately two-thirds of the length of the structure, followed by the cattery area. The design is very open so as not to impede airflow all through the structure. In addition there will be ceiling fans to keep all areas cool and, separating the kennels, are open tiles to give some privacy yet allow for air flow.
If you look at the photo of one of the 6 individual dog kennels, you will note that each 2 meter wide kennel includes a 4 meter covered portion as well as a 4 meter yard outside. We hope to house two dogs in each kennel so they have companionship. There are 6 oversized kennels measuring 4 by 8 meters.
In addition, at one end, the width of the structure will be divided into another two of the oversized kennels connected to an additional 18 meter x 8 meter outside area for exercise. Each of the 8 oversize kennels will house up to 4 to 6 dogs. All kennels will give the animals’ access to both inside and outside.
In the middle of the structure there will be a bathroom, laundry room, with an area for pet grooming, an operating room, storage area, etc. Additionally there is an apartment under construction to house future full-time staff or caretaker. Finally at the other end of the building, off the apartment, there will be the quarantine area.
We are supplementing the existing foliage with some large shade trees along the cattery area and the outside exercise area. There will be a stairs to take the dogs down to the river and a large walking path that sits below the level of the shelter itself.
There is still a lot more needed before we can open our doors. Construction of the building itself has been funded; however, we are still seeking donations of materials and/or money in order to complete the interior. Some of the needed items include a washer, dryer, ceiling fans, toilets, sinks, etc. Please email if you can contribute.
And we have our first resident “Mascota” seen here. She has made herself at home, along with another young female.
