(Atlantic, Iowa) – The Atlantic Animal Shelter at 309 Sunnyside Lane, in Atlantic, had numerous visitors this (Thursday) morning, during the Shelter’s Grand Opening, following the addition of a “cattery” and many improvements for both cats and dogs. Factoring-in COVID, the project took roughly 2 ½ years to complete.
Animal Control Officer Kris Erickson said a generous donation got the ball rolling on making the shelter a better place for dogs and cats while they await adoption or, in the case of lost animals, returned to their owners.

The $135,000 gift from the Lorraine Eppelsheimer Estate was based on the stipulation that it would benefit animals at the shelter, and included a provision the dog and cat areas be separate. The addition includes new floor and office space, an increase in the number of cat cages in a separate area from the dogs, proper food storage, as well as an exam and grooming table, in addition to a more efficient water heater.

In addition to the bequeath, the Shelter went after and obtained grants and methods to reach their funding goal for the project, which was originally estimated to cost around $151,620, but ended-up being $215,000.

Erickson said there are so many people to thank for making the improvements possible.

She said while the cattery and other improvements are finished, there’s still a “wish-list” of items they want to add to make life better for the animals.

You can help out by attending their fundraisers, buying a “Don’t poop” sign for your yard or other areas where picking up animal droppings should happen. You can adopt a cat at the Atlantic animal shelter for only $100, or a dog for only $200. Vet Fees may apply. Follow them on Facebook for events and notification of animals up for adoption. The Shelter is open Monday-Tuesday-Friday, from 9-a.m. Until 3-p.m. For more information, call (712) 243-5281.