Celebrate Animal Services on Sunday, Dec. 7

Missoula Animal Services has completed a significant expansion of its shelter facility, creating more space, improved care areas, and better public access for pet adoptions. The project, which broke ground in September 2024, was officially finished this fall. Staff say the new layout will improve animal wellbeing and help the community connect more easily with adoptable pets.

“We are so excited about the shelter expansion. Dogs and cats have bigger kennels, small animals have their own room, and the public has more access to adoptable animals. We invite everyone to come to the open house and celebrate our new space,” said Holli Hargrove, animal shelter manager.

What’s New in the Expanded Facility

Visitors will notice several major upgrades throughout the shelter, including:

A larger front desk and welcoming lobby
Two private rooms for adopters to meet potential pets
A new animal intake area
Renovated dog kennels with both indoor and outdoor access
Three additional cat rooms with an attached cattery
A dedicated room for small animals
Two large outdoor play yards for dogs

The expansion also added important behind-the-scenes improvements, such as a new laundry room with upgraded equipment, a surgery room with adequate recovery space, better work areas for shelter staff, a designated room for animal control officers, and a combined meeting and break room.

Funding and Community Support

The $3.5 million project was funded through a mix of public investment, grants, and community donations. Fundraising continues, and Missoula Friends of the Shelter is currently matching contributions. Residents who wish to support the expansion can donate at:
http://missoula.co/animalshelterdonation

Shelter Impact and Adoption Information

Missoula Animal Services cares for more than 1,100 pets each year and maintains a 97 percent lifesaving rate through adoptions and reunifications. The shelter is open: