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Door County Humane Society to Double in Size

(Left to right): Scott Treichel, John DeLeers and Jerry Jilot of DeLeers Construction; Capital Campaign Chairman Matt Luders; Board Members Mary Ellen Dreutzer and Nancy Larson; Capital Campaign committee member Mitch Larson; Executive Director Carrie Counihan (with Katie); Board members Sue Anderson and Barb Gilman; Blue Design Group Architect Steve Romatz; Board President Marilyn Jensen; and Blue Design Group Architect Steve Jamroz.

The Door County Humane Society (DCHS) recently announced expansion plans to increase its building size by 6,735 sq. ft. and renovate its current space at a cost of $1.2 million.

The 5,300 sq. ft. shelter was built in 1999 to house 28 cats and 28 dogs. As of October 17, there are 131 cats and 8 dogs at the Humane Society, and total 2012 intake is anticipated to exceed 700 animals.

“Each year, the intake numbers are growing,” said DCHS Executive Director Carrie Counihan. “Animals come in to us from Washington Island to Union; we are here to serve the entire county. No animal is ever turned away due to lack of space, but it has meant we are constantly reinventing the configuration of cages and kennels to accommodate the demand.”

Architect for the construction project is Blue Design Group of Hortonville with DePere-based DeLeers Construction chosen as the general contractor. The foundation work began Oct. 23, and the estimated opening of the new area and completed renovation of the current building is expected by June 2013.

The extra space will promote the cleaning process, enhance the safety of staff and newly arrived animals, and improve air quality. The renovation also includes adding retail space, an educational area, and designated spaces for walking dogs and caring for cats.

“It is with both joy and gratitude that we break ground on this long-needed expansion,” said Marilyn Jensen, president of the DCHS board of directors. “Work on this plan began in August 2010 with a gift from the Marie Shea family. Although the capital campaign must continue to ensure there is no need to borrow construction monies, we feel this work cannot be delayed.”

The capital campaign initiated two years ago has raised $600,000 through private donations. Joining the capital campaign group are Matt & Dr. Regan Luders, and Mitch & Nancy Larson. Their efforts will focus on raising awareness of DCHS work and helping to complete the fund-raising for the completion of the building addition.

For more information or to donate, visit http://www.dooranimals.com.