Totally Paw-some
Upgraded animal shelter opens
Saturday was a “paws-itively” great day for animals and humans alike during the ribbon cutting at the newly-upgraded Taylor Animal Shelter.
“We have had such tremendous support from the Taylor community for the improvements,” said Sandy Perio, animal control officer. “I want to thank everyone who worked so hard to make this possible.”
The Taylor Animal Shelter has gone through a massive change, and several upgrades were made to the facility. On Saturday, Oct. 21, guests were able to tour the shelter and see the new design.
Changes include a new cat-holding area, expanded dog kennels, a new office building with a lobby, offices for staff and addi- tional storage a yard for animals to visit and play. The facility also includes a new meet and greet area for potential owners to become familiar with the animal they are interested in adopting.
Taylor Animal Shelter volunteer Dawn Jones snuggles with Kopper, one of the animals at the shelter.
Cole smiles at visitors as they pass through the newly-expanded kennels at the Taylor Animal Shelter.
Community members, volunteers and city staff celebrate at the ribbon cutting of the Taylor Animal Shelter Saturday, Oct. 21. Photos by Jason Hennington
“Animal shelters are a really important part of our community,” said Mayor Pro Tem Gerald Anderson. “They provide animals with food, water, medical care, protection from the elements, relief for suffering and a caring human presence when they may not have anywhere else to turn.”
According to Taylor’s 2023 budget, the city is using approximately $2.25 million in funds to remodel and expand the shelter. Last year in September, the Taylor City Council approved a $1.5 million bid for Fazzone Construction Co. to complete the kennel expansion at the shelter.
“The staff and volunteers … have done a phenomenal job for the last several years, caring for Taylor’s furry friends in facilities that were less than ideal,” Anderson said. “Taylor is a caring community, and many of our residents were concerned about the facility’s ability to house all of the animals in the community who need care.”
The shelter has been a no-kill facility since 2008, providing adoption and foster services for local cats and dogs.
He said community members reached out to the council and asked that the shelter become a priority.
“This past year, we did just that and today we are thrilled to be celebrating this beautiful new facility that will serve the city for many years to come,” Anderson said.
Elena Thyssen, 5, gently pets Savannah at the ribbon cutting event at the Taylor Animal Shelter. Savannah is a puppy that was adopted from the Taylor shelter. Photo by Jason Hennington
