PASCO, Wash. – The Tri-Cities Animal Shelter has just opened a new facility. The new location is next door to the previous building, still located in Pasco.
Around 100 dogs and cats were moved into the new facility earlier this week.
The goal of this new six million dollar facility is to improve the general quality of life for the animals.
The new building includes upgrades to the air and heating units, industrial laundry machines and an operating room to perform in-house procedures at a lower cost.
The new facility is not significantly larger than the previous, with capacity being set at 77 dogs and 55 cats. The last facility had room to accommodate roughly the same amount of animals.
According to Tri-Cities Animal Services Manager Benjamin Zigan, the upgrades were much needed. Improved quality of life for the animals allows them to be a less aggressive version of themselves.
“You get a stressed out dog or cat, they’re going to be more on the defensive. They’re going to show more aggressive style behavior… but [when] they’re less stressed and more calm you’re actually going to see the true animal and what their behavior is. Whether or not, they’re going to be super friendly with you or if they’re going to be a little bit of a stubborn pet.” Zigan said.
