Written by Natalie Broda for the Oakland Press.
The Michigan Animal Rescue League recently broke ground on a new $6 million facility which will replace its existing shelter in Pontiac.
The new 15,000 square-foot shelter will be three-times the size of the league’s current facility at 790 Featherstone Road. The shelter has seen increased demand and overcrowding in recent years as the building, opened in 1953, has also seen an increased need for repairs.
“The quality of the wait for a forever home can make all the difference in the future of an animal,” Magee Humes, executive director of MARL, said. “Our organization has always set a high standard for animal care. This new facility will allow our team to work even more effectively to provide exceptional care for the animals and a great adoption experience for adopters.”
Submitted Photo – Courtesy of Michigan Animal Rescue League
MARL provided care for more than 1,500 animals last year.
The new shelter will include 24-hour indoor and outdoor access for dogs and custom-built cat housing with natural light and more visibility to potential adopters. Training and animal enrichment rooms will accompany in-house medical care while a new air quality system will assist with controlling the spread of diseases, according to the league. A dedicated walking trail and individual yards for dogs are also planned.
Construction of a brand-new shelter, part of a $12 million campaign by the league to enhance services, was more cost effective, MARL stated in a press release.
The existing facility will be demolished this month. The league plans to open the new shelter by the end of 2020, according to Crain’s Detroit Business. During construction, the league will be leasing three spaces in a strip mall at 1624 North Perry St. in Pontiac to hold its animals.
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