MANSFIELD — Imagine sleeping on a cold cement floor without so much as a blanket.
That’s the reality for dogs like Edgar. The caramel-colored pit bull terrier arrived at the Richland County Dog Shelter in December.
Volunteers at the Richland County Dog Shelter have launched a fundraiser to replace several run-down kennels, including the one where Edgar sleeps.
“We noticed that those particular kennels are in really, really bad shape,” said Donna Boyette, the GoFundMe organizer.
Supporters hope to raise $15,000. At the time of publication, the GoFundMe page had generated $2,450.
“Due to the overcrowding at the shelter, we have had to use every kennel available to house the pups that continue to come in steadily,” she added.
“We are looking to raise money to replace these kennels so that these pups can at least have a nicer place to stay until they find their fur-ever homes.
Dog Warden Missy Houghton said the kennels in question are almost 30 years old.
According to Houghton, they were designed for toy dog breeds, which weigh less than 15 pounds. Up until a couple of years ago, they weren’t used frequently.
Due to overcrowding at the shelter, they often hold small dogs that weigh around 30 to 40 pounds.
Boyette described the current kennels as “dismal.” The kennels have deteriorated so much that the drain covers won’t fit properly. The bottom row of kennels has a cold, damp cement floor.
Meanwhile, dogs in those kennels can’t have a blanket or toy with them because of the decrepit drainage system.
Houghton said the funds will allow the shelter to replace the kennels and redo the drainage system so dogs can have comfort items with them.
County dog shelter is largely self-funded
Houghton said the shelter can’t raise funds for itself because it’s a county agency, but its dedicated volunteer base sometimes does.
In the past, the group has funded fencing for a play yard and medical care for the dogs.
Richland County Commissioners have approved funding for specific upgrades like sound-proofing panels and replacing cat kennels with larger ones. (The building no longer houses cats). However, the shelter is primarily self-funded through adoption and licensing fees.
According to Houghton, the shelter was originally built to house animals for both the county dog warden and humane society. Its comfortable maximum capacity is 70 animals. These days, the shelter averages around 100 dogs in its care.
Boyette said she thinks the kennels slated for replacement may even impact the adoptability of the dogs who stay there.
“A lot of times when people are walking by to look for a dog, they tend to go past those kennels because they’re just so gross and dingy and dark,” she said.
To donate to the dog shelter fundraiser, click here. To see adoptable dogs through the Richland County Dog Warden’s office, click here.
