The HART Animal Adoption Wing was officially opened on Friday, April 15 2016, in the presence of representatives from federal, state, and local government, volunteers, supporters and staff. After ten years, HART’s dream of a place for homeless animals was now a beautiful reality.
The Adoption Wing is the final phase of the 12,000 square foot facility. Construction of the Adoption Wing began in April 2015 and was completed in March 2016. Phase 1 of the Center opened in February 2014 and includes the Bredel Veterinary Clinic, the Bed ‘n Bark Inn pet hotel, MuttWorks grooming, and the HART Shoppe.
Nancy Squires and The Squires Group have contributed more than $295,000 to HART for Animals. Nancy provided the seed money to help HART sustain and establish itself during the early stages of its existence. Nancy is also on the Board at HART providing her business acumen and leveraging her business success and applying it to the not-for-profit organization.
“I am very happy and proud on this momentous occasion for HART. What started as an idea in the minds of a few passionate individuals has now transformed into a big reality for the community, the pets it rescues and most importantly all the families that provide homes to these pets. Anyone who knows me knows that I am an animal lover. So, for the final phase to come to fruition is like a dream come true for me!” says Nancy.
Dr. Bill McGowan, USDA Rural Development Director for Maryland and Delaware, opened the ceremony commenting on their relationship with HART. “USDA Rural Development has been a partner with HART since 2012 when we began working with them on Phase 1 to build a new animal center,” says Dr. McGowan. “It’s been two years since I was here last for the Grand Opening of the Animal Center and today we are celebrating the completion of Phase 2 – the Adoption Wing.” Dr. McGowan noted that the HART Animal Center is an example of what can be accomplished in a small community when volunteers, organizations, and government join together.
The HART Adoption Wing will house 60 cats and 60 dogs, and multiple litters of kittens and puppies. The common areas include an exercise room to help socialize animals prior to adoption, separate food preparation areas for cats and dogs, and a laundry area. “Meet and Greet” rooms are available for potential adopters to play and interact with potential pets.
“HART has become a very popular educational field trip destination,” remarks Paula Yudelevit, Executive Director. “We host school groups from as young as kindergarteners to teens in high school. While the younger ones watch our veterinarian, Dr. Jennifer Barnard, ‘operate’ on a stuffed animal, the teens have the opportunity to watch actual spay/neuter surgeries. They all learn the importance of animal care.”
