The future of the Animal Protection Society in Friday Harbor
Published 4:26 pm Friday, October 16, 2015
By Julie Corey, board member and Jamie Ellsworth, board president
The animal shelter’s future has been nourished by its past and present, we have come a long way in 33 years. Time and necessary changes require us to find a new home for the animals. Have you heard about our “New Home, New Hope” campaign? Thanks to generous and caring islanders we now own 4.9 acres of land at 994 Cattle Point Road and have over 50 percent of the funds needed to build a permanent shelter for animals in need.
We have combined the experiences of many successful shelters in efficient design, energy and human resource practicality, current products used in construction that provide durability, disease/bacteria control and comfort for animals.
Dogs and cats will have separated living areas to reduce their stress, indoor areas will be warm and sanitary with more animal friendly design features, large outdoor areas will give them more freedom, isolation and quarantine areas will prevent the spread of infection and disease, an exam and treatment room will help in maintaining their health and there will be indoor and outdoor areas for people to socialize with the animals and get to know them. The new shelter will be a source of pride for us as a community.
New and expanded programs will include: student internships in animal care, education programs for children and adults, hiking trails for walking pets, improved volunteer opportunities and more. Over all it will be the best we can offer this community and our animal guests. You have graciously given to the Animal Shelter in the past and we need your additional support to secure the future.
The shelter has been lovingly passed down to each volunteer, staff member and board of directors. We have the love, drive and dedication that our founders had.
Contact Leslie Byron at 378-2158 for info or to make a donation or pledge.
