FLORENCE-The City of Florence and the Lauderdale County Commission held a ground breaking ceremony for the new Florence-Lauderdale Animal Services Facility. The just under 13,00 interior square foot building will replace the old building (3,800 Square feet). The ceremony was held on Wednesday, November 15 with a crowd of over 100 people and dogs.
Speakers for the ceremony were Mayor Steve Holt, County Commission Chairman Danny Pettus, Leah Fox, Animal Control Director, Building architect Jill Andrews, Chamber President Caitlin Holland and Mindy Gilbert of the Alabama State Humane Society.
FLORENCE-LAUDERDALE ANIMAL SERVICES INFORMATION:
1. Just under 13,000 interior square feet (12,923) [Current square footage of existing shelter is 3,800]
2. 219 total Kennels [Current number of kennels is only 60!]
3. Dog kennels have an indoor/outdoor space for each dog. The outdoor spaces are fully covered and face out into an expansive courtyard.
4. In addition to the large courtyard, there are other exterior exercise areas for dogs. Double fencing between animal holding areas and the adjacent land will help prevent animal escapes.
5. Large play room for cats that can be viewed from the exterior of the building.
6. A puppy room.
7. Maternity space for animals that are brought in at the end of pregnancy a quiet room where they can give birth in peace.
8. Education/public outreach/class room space.
9. Separated holding/quarantine areas for animal intake.
10. Commercial washers/dryers for the cleaning of animal bedding.
11. Exam/evaluation areas.
12. Large food preparation areas on both adoption and holding sides.
13. Large bulk storage area for storage of donated food.
14. Specialized HVAC system to minimize moisture problems and odors.
15. Extensive plumbing and drainage systems to facilitate daily cleaning and disease control..
16. LED lighting throughout.
QCDNews was on hand to capture the event in photos. We present them to you here:
