Denton has a critical need for a new animal shelter to replace the existing City of Denton shelter built in 1979, which is out of date and capacity. The current shelter, which has a maximum capacity of 114 animals, will handle over 5,000 dogs/cats in 2009. Due to population growth by 2017, conservative estimates are that over 7,550 stray, abused and abandoned dogs/cats will require service annually. “This is a project that is long overdue for Denton and needs addressing with appropriate dispatch,” said DASF Chairman Bette Sherman.
Denton Animal Shelter Foundation, Inc. (DASF) is a federal tax-exempt foundation partnering with the City of Denton in proposing an updated and more humane concept in animal care and adoption by launching a $3.2 million capital campaign to support the building of a new Denton Animal Care and Adoption Center. The city will need to fund the majority of the 22,240 square foot facility which would continue to house city Animal Services functions required by state and city regulation. DASF is soliciting private donations for the adoption and care areas, changing the strategic focus to rescue and adoption instead of merely warehousing dogs/cats. “This facility would be a positive reflection on the image of the city of Denton,” said Mayor Pro-Tem Pete Kamp, DASF Vice Chairman. She added that “the city would continue to operate the care center with increased participation from volunteers and local rescue groups.” Texas State Representative Myra Crownover is serving as Honorary Chairman of the capital campaign.
After 18 months of assessment and research, the conceptual design was completed by Connolly Architects, Inc., an Austin-based firm specializing in animal shelters. Hired by the city, Connolly completed a master plan that was accepted by city council in December 2008. In January 2009, the city purchased 20 acres of park land, designating six acres for the new animal care facility, and would be three times the size of the older shelter, allowing for future growth and expansion. Areas funded through private donations would include attractive adoption-friendly dog/cat habitats, outside dog play, cat screened porch, on-site vet clinic, community/event room, grooming, “get-acquainted” private rooms, separate space for puppys/kittens, and volunteer coordination/training space. This center would seek to qualify for green energy efficiency LEED silver designation and would use advanced technology for maximum operating cost effectiveness.
As part of the capital campaign, contributors have the opportunity to “name” areas of the new shelter. Available for individuals, families, businesses, and groups, and may include “in memory ” or “honor ” designations. A permanent “Wall of Honor” will be installed in the lobby of the recognizing contributors.
The mission of DASF is fundraising and public education to support the city shelter; it is not involved in daily shelter operation. DASF is an all-volunteer 501(c)3 non-profit organization with no paid staff. For contributions and more information: www.dentonanimalshelterfoundation.com
