On Saturday, July 27, 2024, from 11am to 4pm, Bulloch County Animal Services welcomed the community for its grand re-opening.
Barbara Diaz, director, is thrilled about the shelter's recently completed renovations and what it could mean for the shelter's nearly fifty temporary four-legged residents.
"Everybody that's ever been here before can see the difference," Diaz says of the amazing transformation.
Supervisor Amanda Anderson also believes the aesthetics will encourage families to come in and adopt, giving cats and dogs the perfect fit they've been waiting for.
"It's so much more people-friendly, animal-friendly, and it makes the animals feel more comfortable when the people are comfortable," she says. "If people are happy, they come back, spend more time with the animals, volunteering, looking at them, which gets them ready for their forever home."
Due to the renovations, which were completed entirely with the use of inmate labor, the volunteer program at the shelter had to have a hiatus, but Diaz and Anderson are looking forward to welcoming volunteers back as early as the middle of August.
For those looking to adopt their next furry family member, Bulloch County Animal Services streamlines the process so it is quick and efficient. The paperwork takes about 15 minutes, and animals are spayed or neutered, up to date on all of their shots, and micro-chipped. Additional items such as toys and beds are given as a starter pack to adoptive families to offset the expense of having a new pet.
"It's only $50 to adopt a dog and $30 for a cat, so it's very reasonable," Anderson says. "We try to make it a smooth transition."
Public Safety Director Randy Tillman, Animal Control Supervisor Joey Sanders, and Assistant County Manager Cindy Steinman were in attendance to celebrate with the community.
The event had fun for all ages with a dog-themed bounce house, homemade dog treats, a colorful photo op, and delicious food donated by JD Heating and Air.
Diaz and Anderson hope this event encourages residents to see the renovations and stay for some puppy or kitty snuggles.
"Just come any time we're open, " Anderson says. "We can help you find that perfect one."
Bulloch County Animal Services is located at 81 Mill Creek Rd., Statesboro GA 30458. They are open Monday, Wednesday, and Thursday from 11am-5pm; Tuesday and Friday from 12:30pm-5pm; and Saturdays from noon-3pm. Saturdays are for adoptions only (no animal intake).
For more information about Bulloch County Animal Services, please visit their website or call (912) 764-4529.