In 2007, a reported 31% of all animals impounded in Middlesex County were euthanized at their respective animal shelters. Why is this statistic so high? Because out of the 25 municipalities in Middlesex County, only five have animal shelters. That’s why the North Brunswick Humane Association is working to create a 7,000-square foot no-kill shelter, along with a network of foster homes throughout the county.

By Kristina Knight, BestFriends newswriter

            However, things are not as simple as just picking out a plot of land and starting to build. Despite receiving the Township Council’s approval this past June, the NBHA still needs the necessary funds to begin the project. In total, they need to raise a minimum of $1.5 million to build the facility, which would be large enough to house up to 70 cats and 30 dogs. Since creating a shelter is not an effective method to ending overpopulation, the NBHA will also use the money to finance a community education center. The center will present information on how to coexist with wildlife, the importance of spaying and neutering pets, and the responsibilities that go hand-in-hand with pet ownership. The new facilities will also offer young adults and senior citizens opportunities to get involved through interaction with the animals and volunteer work.

            Officials from the humane association believe that this shelter will cater to communities beyond North Brunswick. East Brunswick, New Brunswick, South Brunswick, and Milltown will be considered part of the “service area” for the new shelter. Three of these towns are already contracted with private kennels, but there is not evidence that any of the animals are actually placed in new homes. Because these areas do not have public shelters, euthanasia rates have been painfully high.

            If completed, the new North Brunswick shelter will include a central lobby, a director’s office, a conference facility, a shelter gift shop, two adoption rooms (one for dogs, the other for cats), and a small exotic animal area. In addition to these facilities, the shelter will also offer a veterinary clinic, where the spaying and neutering of the impounded animals will take place. To ensure comfort for the cats and dogs, each kennel will have screened and fenced outdoor areas for natural sunlight and fresh air. Studies show that inviting, bright shelters tend to increase adoption rates, so the North Brunswick shelter will be built as a warm, welcoming environment.

            Once a commitment is made to build the shelter, a “Capital Campaign” will begin to raise finances for equipment and furniture. Intake fees will be placed on each animal brought to the shelter, and adoption fees will be charged. Membership to the shelter will be sold, and visitors will have the opportunity to purchase pet supplies and merchandise from the gift shop. Additionally, fundraising events will be held throughout the year, and animal sponsorship and memorial donation opportunities will help finance the facility.

            If all goes well, the shelter should be built and operating between 24 and 36 months from the time a commitment to build it signed. With the public’s support, it is possible to create a shelter that will not only lower euthanasia rates and help homeless animals, but reach out to the community and provide educational and volunteer opportunities. If you are interested in supporting the NBHA’s Project Shelter, please go to:

NBHA link:  www.northbrunswickhumane.org

Project Shelter link: http://www.northbrunswickhumane.org/nbha-projectshelter.htm

Project Shelter email: projectshelter@northbrunswickhumane.org