Dogs at the Smith County Animal Shelter have a lot more room to stretch their legs. The shelter opened a new outdoor green space this week for its dogs and the people who come to meet them.
A $1.8 Million Upgrade Paid With Federal Relief Funds
The project cost $1.8 million and was paid for entirely with ARPA funds, the federal pandemic relief money from the American Rescue Plan Act.
Sunshine and Grass, Finally
Shelter Coordinator Holli Jones said the new space fills a real need. Visitors often wait to meet dogs, and they would rather do it outside in the sunshine.
The bigger change is for the dogs. Before, Jones said, dogs spent their time in kennels with no space to run, no grass and no sunlight. Now staff can take turns bringing dogs out to run and play.
Seeing Each Dog’s True Personality
Jones said the difference is easy to see. On the day she spoke with KLTV, she brought out a very shy, timid dog, and it started chasing a soccer ball almost immediately.
As she put it, “we see the dog’s true personality.” That helps staff and helps families looking for the right pet. A dog that seems nervous in a kennel may turn out to be playful and full of energy once it’s outside.
Plans for Community Events
The shelter plans to use the green space for community events as well, giving people more chances to visit and get to know the animals.
Free Adoptions Right Now
If you’ve been thinking about adding a dog to your family, now is a good time. Adoption fees at the Smith County Animal Shelter are currently waived, and families who adopt a dog will get a voucher for spay or neuter services.
The Bottom Line
The Smith County Animal Shelter’s new $1.8 million green space, paid for with ARPA funds, gives dogs room to run, play and soak up the sun, and gives families a better way to meet their future pets. With adoption fees waived and spay/neuter vouchers included, the shelter is hoping more of these dogs find homes soon.