Building Planning to Proceed

With the recent closing of the acquisition of the new site on Hunt Club, the OHS Board of Directors has voted to proceed to the design phase of the project. "We want to be ready to hit the ground running, just as soon as the board is assured that all of the funds will be raised for the facility. That means beginning the design phase now," says OHS President, Rob Cameron. "The need is so great that there is no time to waste."

The board asked the OHS Executive Director Bruce Roney to prepare a process for hiring a project manager to hire and manage the architects and, later in the process, contractors. Project management is essential as the OHS does not have the staff resources to manage a project of this size.

The OHS hopes to have the financial commitment of donors in time to ensure a ground breaking no later than the fall of 2010.

Introducing... Dr. Sue Kilborn and Dr. Steve Batty

The Breaking Ground Building Campaign is very lucky to have the help and support of two local veterinarians. The duo has been busy contacting local practices to make them aware of the project and helping to solicit their support.

For Dr. Kilborn, getting involved was an easy choice. "I know the veterinarians and some staff working at the shelter, and I know how hard the past few years have been with growing numbers of animals and not enough resources and space to deliver ideal care. The new building will enhance well being for both the animals and the staff. Ultimately, I hope that a calm, inviting building with adequate space will result in more animals being adopted. If people like visiting and hear great things about this new facility, traffic should increase and hopefully so will the numbers of people leaving with their new pets!"

Dr. Batty, who also serves on the OHS Board of Directors, has volunteered his services at the shelter and knows the challenges first-hand, "... a new facility will be the foundation for better care for the animals of Ottawa. The new space allows for more programs while decreasing the spread of disease from overcrowding. It will improve the working environment and decrease stress for both staff and for the animals."

Drs. Kilborn and Batty have made personal pledges to the campaign as well as investing their time in raising funds for the project within Ottawa’s veterinary community.

Charting our Progress

The OHS Breaking Ground Building Campaign recently passed the half-way point in putting together the necessary funds for this project. "It feels great to hit that 50 percent—we are that much closer to the reality of a brighter future for the animals," says OHS Executive Director, Bruce Roney.

The new total includes funds received from the City of Ottawa and proceeds of the anticipated sale of the Champagne Avenue property prior to moving. "We are at 25 percent of the fundraising goal—pretty good considering comparatively few people even know about the project as yet."