MUSCATINE, Iowa–For the past 25 years, the Muscatine Humane Society has helped many, many cats and dogs (as well as their fair share of more exotic animals) find loving “fur”-ever homes. With so many animals coming and going year in and year out, the facilities naturally receive a lot of wear and tear. In 2020, the shelter replaced many of its cat cages. Now, with the help of a grant from the Humane Society of the United States as well as support from local donors, the Humane Society hopes to update all of its dog kennels.

Muscatine Humane Society director Chris McGinnis identified replacing the dog kennels as a priority earlier this year when the side walls started to break down, allowing dogs to get into neighboring kennels uninvited. “Our kennel panels that divide the dogs from each other are so brittle now that the dogs are eating through them and getting in the next kennel together, so replacement is urgent,” she elaborated.

It will cost the Humane Society $96,000 to replace each of their existing kennels. In October, the Humane Society received a $750 grant from the Humane Society of the United States recognizing their commendable partnership with For Pets’ Sake to help local pet owners take advantage of the Iowa Humane Alliance’s low-cost spay and neuter programs for dogs and cats.

However, it will take more fundraising efforts to raise the money needed. Though the Humane Society did hold its first ever Woofstock concert this summer, they had to pause several long-running fundraisers in 2020 and early 2021 because of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.

If you would like to help the Muscatine Humane Society in their efforts to replace their dog kennels, you may do so in person by visiting the Humane Society at 920 South Houser Street in Muscatine. “We feel very grateful for every donation that we receive,” emphasized McGinnis.