Paw-some news: Ross County Humane Society officially breaks ground on new shelter
CHILLICOTHE — After years of fundraising, planning and hard work the Ross County Humane Society has officially broken ground on its new facility.
The new facility, which will be located near the current shelter which will later be demolished, will provide a safer, cleaner and overall more habitable space for the dogs to live while they are waiting to be adopted. This includes separate wings for animals to be housed in with better air quality and natural light, a private area for the dog warden, a small clinic and more.
"We are excited to take this important step toward the future of the Ross County Humane Society," said Jenn Thomas, Executive Director. “This new facility will provide a better environment for the animals in our care as well as additional resources for the members of our community.”
More Humane Society news: A look back at 2023 for the Ross County Humane Society
During the groundbreaking event, Thomas shed a few tears as she talked about where the shelter was when she started and where it is now. She hopes this new shelter will long outlive her tenure at the Humane Society and will remain a spot that is calming and safe for dogs in their care for years to come.
"I am filled with excitement for the future," said Thomas.
She and board members are thankful for all the community support they have received so far through donations and volunteer hours.
Community leaders at the event, like President and CEO of the Chillicothe-Ross Chamber of Commerce Mike Throne and County Commissioner Dwight Garrett called the event a great day for the community, Garrett said a new shelter is "truly needed" in the area.
The shelter is set to begin work in May of this year and work is expected to last at least one year. The shelter is also currently $500,000 away from reaching its ultimate construction goal so donations are still being accepted.
A Dueling for Dogs fundraising event is scheduled to take place starting at 5:50 p.m. on July 13 at the Chillicothe Elks Lodge. Greg Higley and the Cleveland Keys will be performing to raise money, guests will also be given the chance to gift at various levels to help with everything from a fenced-in run to an awning and window. Tickets can be purchased for this event at the Ross County Humane Society or at Ivy's in Downtown Chillicothe.
For more information on the Ross County Humane Society and to see the dogs currently available for adoption visit them online.
Shelby Reeves is a reporter for the Chillicothe Gazette. You can email her at SReeves@gannett.com or follow her on Twitter @Shelby_Reeves_
This article originally appeared on Chillicothe Gazette: Ross County Humane Society breaks ground on new facility
