Aurora Adopt-A-Pet is initiating a fundraising effort to expand its shelter, aiming to raise between $400,000 and $450,000. The expansion is intended to provide better housing for rescued cats and dogs waiting for adoption. Shelter president Shannon Goltz expressed optimism about the project, noting that it will enhance the care given to animals in the community.
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Once the funding goal is achieved, the new structures will be built on the west side of the current facility. The plan includes creating separate spaces for cats and dogs, improving their living conditions and allowing for the renovation of existing areas. Goltz explained that new quarantine rooms will be essential for incoming animals, allowing them to be monitored for health issues before they join the general population. This includes special accommodations for animals like FIV-positive cats, who require separate housing but can still live fulfilling lives.
The shelter currently houses upwards of eight dogs and between 24 to 30 cats, and it takes in animals from local law enforcement when their owners are unavailable. Goltz mentioned that the shelter adapts its hold period on strays in compliance with city and state ordinances.
The intended expansion features larger enclosures for cats, where they can roam freely and interact, alleviating the confines of smaller spaces they currently occupy. Additionally, there will be birthing and kitten-specific areas in the new addition to ensure better care for pregnant cats and young kittens.
In addition to animal housing, the expansion will include enriched environments that promote physical activity and socialization among the animals. The shelter plans to add storage, utility, office spaces, and separate entrances for volunteers and visitors to enhance operational efficiency.
To fund these improvements, the organization will host various fundraisers throughout the year, including a giving tree initiative at Aurora Mall and an annual chili feed scheduled for March 14. They are also seeking volunteers to help with shelter duties and fostering animals.
Goltz encouraged community support by accepting donations via checks made out to Aurora Adopt-A-Pet, offering to engrave paw prints with the names of donors contributing $250 or more on a mural that will adorn the office area.
The goal of these efforts is to improve the welfare of as many animals as possible in Hamilton County, adapting to the increasing need for shelter space and care options for local pets.