Inside Dexter's plans for a revamped animal shelter thanks to Purina's generous support

Dexter officials hope to make $25,000 in improvements to the city animal shelter this summer, thanks to a donation from Purina.

The city has been talking to contractors in an effort to get the most improvements within the budget, city manager David Wyman said Wednesday.

“We are very close to finalizing our scope of work and intend on getting the improvements made this summer,” Wyman explained.

The improvements will improve the lives of the dogs served by the shelter, as well as improve adoption rates, explained Ashton Grainger, Dexter humane officer.

The funds will be used to construct a new show room, which is expected to boost pet adoptions, according to a press release. Additionally, the shelter will expand its storage capacity, create a more functional laundry space, and separate bathroom and office areas to enhance sanitation. Plans are also underway to add outdoor spaces to the kennels.

The shelter currently only has an outdoor space for prospective adopters to meet with dogs. Bad weather means those introductions are canceled, Granger explained.

“When cancel because weather, they usually don’t reschedule,” said Granger, who has been with the shelter for about a year and a half. “We lose out on a potential adoption. I’m hoping with the inside showroom, we’ll be able to raise our adoption rate.”

The shelter has space for 15 dogs inside, as well as two outside huts.

Currently, only dogs on the right side of the facility have both inside and outside runs attached to their kennels. Those housed on the left side have only inside runs, unless taken outside by staff.

Granger hopes to add outside runs for those kennels.

“Letting a dog be able to be outside … it helps their mental state when they’re in an environment like this,” Granger said.

Expanding the fenced play area is another goal for the funds, she said.

“We would not be able to make any of these changes or additions without this generous donation from Purina. We’re so glad that they are a valued partner and contributor to our shelter and to Dexter’s community of animal lovers,” Grainger said.

Purina has contributed more than $150 million over the past five years to organizations focused on making a difference for pets, people and the planet, according to the company.

Jeff Goodmanson, Purina factory manager in Bloomfield, emphasized the company’s commitment to local partnerships.

“At Purina, we strive to support critical programs and partners in the communities we call home. Dexter Animal Shelter is a vital organization in this area, and it’s an honor to support their work,” Goodmanson stated.