Artist's rendering of upgrades to the Lorain County Dog Kennel.
Elyria, OH—The Lorain County Dog Kennel is set to undergo a significant transformation with a $1.4 million upgrade, combining a $250,000 grant from the State of Ohio with an additional $800,000 investment from the county. This major renovation will enhance the facility’s ability to care for stray and homeless dogs.
The current kennel, which includes six small and twenty-eight large kennels, will see substantial improvements. The large kennels, equipped with indoor/outdoor access, are being renovated to replace floor drains and improve overall conditions. These kennels are essential for transitioning dogs from quarantine to adoption readiness, with staff and volunteers working to prepare them for their new homes.
A key addition will be an isolation area on the south end of the building, featuring eleven kennels for new arrivals. This space will help ensure that incoming dogs are monitored for any communicable diseases, addressing a crucial gap in the current facility.
The north end will see nine new kennels dedicated to dogs who have completed their initial evaluation and are ready for adoption. This area will focus on dogs who have been assessed for temperament and personality, helping them find their forever homes more effectively.
Additional updates include a dedicated dog washing room with a stainless-steel tub and a ramp for easy access, as well as comprehensive heating and ventilation upgrades throughout the building. New meet-and-greet rooms will also be added to facilitate interactions between potential adopters and dogs.
The project builds on previous improvements, including a 90 x 90-foot fenced area added in 2022, which provides dogs with space to play outside their kennels. These ongoing enhancements reflect the facility’s commitment to creating a safe and comfortable environment for Lorain County’s lost and homeless dogs.
The Commissioners have issued a Notice to Proceed, with work slated to begin on or before August 22, 2024, and expected to be completed within 300 days. To support adoption during this period, the kennel is waiving adoption fees through October 1, 2024; adopters will only need to cover the $26 cost of a dog license.
The Lorain County Dog Kennel remains dedicated to serving the community by improving its facilities and services, ensuring a better quality of life for both the dogs and their future families.
