New Humane Society Shelter
T
~story and photos by Bob Gustin
he new, state-of-the-art Brown County Humane Society building is a reflection of the people and places around it, a culmination of planning, fundraising and dedicated volunteer work. A grand opening is scheduled for the facility in mid-July, located just south of its old building near the intersection of state roads 46 and 135 east of Nashville. Sue Ann Werling, president of the humane society, said pictures of various buildings around Brown County, both old and new, were sent to architects and planners, hoping to capture the spirit of the area. Inside the wood and stone exterior, the $3.2 million facility has temperature-controlled dog kennels and cat cages, each offering the animals a choice to stay put or go outside in securely fenced areas. Features include a medical treatment room, a large dog-bathing station, offices, get-acquainted rooms, a community meeting space, a kitchen for volunteers, storage areas, and more. Soundproofing keeps down the noise, and ventilation systems keep down the odors. Strategically placed hose fixtures will make kennel cleaning more efficient. Segregated areas are adapted to animal needs, including strays, puppies, and kittens, and
26 Our Brown County July/August 2021
medical isolation rooms. Extra-large kennels can accommodate bonded pairs or extra-large dogs. Construction began in April 2020. A separate $225,000 fundraising drive provided furnishings and equipment. The medical treatment room is named in honor of longtime Bean Blossom veterinarian James Brester. That room, along with the ventilation and cleanliness features, made building the facility “like building a mini-hospital for animals,” Werling said. Throughout the facility, placards honor major donors. Big photos of dogs and cats, former residents of the humane society, line the walls. The large, well-lit lobby features an observation room where kittens romp freely, and discreet stations where those surrendering or adopting animals can interact with staff. Animal control officers dropping off strays after hours will have access to a holding area for pets without getting a volunteer out of bed in the middle of the night. While most of the building is no-frills, aimed at providing the best environment for both animals and their human visitors, Werling said one whimsical luxury was added: lobby ceiling tiles embossed with animal footprints leading from the front door to both cat and dog areas.
