Great Falls Animal Shelter to Break Ground on Outdoor Kennel and Play Yard This Fall

The Great Falls Animal Shelter is thrilled to announce that full funding has been secured and final approval granted for the construction of a new outdoor kennel and play yard. Construction is set to begin this summer, with completion anticipated by September 2025. The expanded outdoor area will include 20 individual 10x10 kennels, two large group play kennels, and two medium-sized kennels for dog meet-and-greets, training, and behavioral evaluations. The new space will also feature seating areas for staff, volunteers, and potential adopters, offering comfortable spots to observe dogs during playgroups, training sessions, or meet-and-greets. This transformative project was funded through a generous grant from the ASPCA Northern Tier Shelter Initiative. The ASPCA grant was awarded specifically to help reduce kennel decline and behavioral euthanasia among medium and large breed dogs, which made up 82% of the shelter’s dog intakes in 2023. Earlier this year, members of the Great Falls Animal Shelter team completed Dogs Playing for Life, a nationally recognized group-play training program provided at no cost through a partnership with the Bitterroot Humane Association. This training will allow staff to safely and effectively manage group play, assess behavior in dynamic environments, and increase the socialization opportunities that are crucial for successful adoptions. “Currently, our dogs spend a significant amount of time indoors in their kennels,” said Joseph Parchen, Community Relations Specialist. “The opportunity to enjoy fresh air, natural sunlight, playgroups, and enhanced training resources won’t just benefit them while they’re with us—it will better prepare them for success in their future homes.” “ASPCA grant funds are intended to help alleviate the many challenges shelters are currently experiencing by providing them with the resources, staffing, or services they need to care for the animals in their communities,” said Tricia Sebes, senior director of the ASPCA Northern Tier Shelter Initiative. “Through our funding, consultations and trainings, the ASPCA Northern Tier Shelter Initiative is assisting shelters in Alaska, Washington, Idaho, Montana, North Dakota, Minnesota and Wisconsin to build strong programs that support vulnerable animals, and we look forward to seeing the positive impact Great Falls Animal Shelter continues to make in their community.” The shelter extends its heartfelt thanks to the ASPCA, Bitterroot Humane Association, and all local supporters who made this project possible. For updates and more information, visit https://greatfallsmt.net/animalshelter or call (406) 454-2276