There’s some great news for all the animal lovers of Atlanta! A much needed, much overdue animal shelter will be opening up on December 2nd, to relieve severe overcrowding in the Fulton County Animal Shelter.
What’s the new shelter like?
According to WSB-TV, the new facility is “designed more like a modern hospital” instead of the old building, which was built in the 1970s. The $40 million facility can hold, “can fit 376 dogs, 99 cats, 12 small animals, 18 chickens and six livestock.”
WSB-TV also reports that the new facility will also include “33 play yards outdoors, a barn, chicken coop and a 54,000 square foot pasture. The facility has separate ventilation systems for sick animals, more natural lighting and acoustics designed to reduce noise… [and] there are fewer kennels and more run space. Pets can choose where to sleep by passing through doggie doors connecting kennels.”
The new shelter will be located at 1251 Fulton Industrial Blvd, near the Fulton County Airport.
The Old Facility
This is a huge improvement to the current situation. The current Fulton County Animal Shelter was built nearly 40 years ago, and was only designed to hold about 80 animals. It currently has nearly 300 dogs and cats, and at some points over the summer, WABE reported almost 400 animals were squeezed into the shelter.
A building built in the 1970s simply cannot be expected to work for modern problems, and animal homelessness has become a huge issue in Atlanta because of this. Of course, having animals loose on the street can be dangerous for both people who come into contact with them, but also for the animals themselves.
Now is a great time to adopt a new best friend!
The Fulton County Animal Shelter is also looking to increase their adoption rates from the old facility before moving animals over to the new one. They are waiving all adoption fees at all Lifeline locations from Nov. 24-27.
WSB-TV spoke with Fulton County COO Alton Adams, who admits, “A facility in and of itself won’t solve the problem.” But he elaborates that it will help avoid overcrowding.
The root of the issue is of course, overbreeding, dog fighting and animal control services shortages.
Alleviating the symptoms is sometimes the first step in solving the issue. And these animals will be so much happier at the new facility.
If you’re looking for a new buddy, definitely check ’em out and give these sweet pets their forever homes!