After nearly two years without a home, the St. Paul Animal Shelter is pleased to final start construction on their new permanent facility. Shelter Manager, Josiah Clarke said some plans have been altered, but they will soon be able to accommodate cats and dogs again.

“We will be constructing the 40×40 building which will provide us with the facilities required to quarantine both cats and dogs, a room for the cats to live, a room for potential adopters to come and meet the animals, an office, and all of the required amenities,” explained Clarke.

The shelter was closed in late summer of 2016 after a storm destroyed their aging facility. They were able to find a temporary space to work out of at Community Futures; however could not take any dogs after the storm.

The shelter would direct dogs to neighbouring shelters and had foster homes set up for cats, while the shelter worked on fundraising for a new permanent home.

“Due to the rising cost of materials, we are unable to renovate the Quonset at this time. But this building will serve as great starting point for the Shelter to start helping animals find their furever homes,” Clarke said.

Unfortunately, the shelter was not successful in receiving a CFEP grant to help build the facility. The County of St. Paul has donated approximately $25,000 in gravel for the land. The Town of St. Paul has been supportive in the shelter’s efforts.

All other funds have been raised by donation and charity initiatives.

The building permit has been filed with the County of St. Paul allowing citizens to voice any concerns they may have with the proposed building. The Tentative start date is May 15th provided the site dries up enough for the contractor to start work, and is estimated to be completed by August 15th.