New space offers dogs a place to socialize, play, and learn

CUYAHOGA COUNTY, OH – Today, Cuyahoga County celebrated the grand opening of the newly expanded County Animal Shelter. This $2.7 million investment transforms the shelter, enhancing services and programming, while providing a safe and loving environment for our furry friends. With this expansion, the County reaffirms its commitment to animal care and to helping to connect pets to furever homes.

“This expansion marks a major milestone for the Animal Shelter,” said Cuyahoga County Executive Chris Ronayne. “This is more than an investment in infrastructure, it’s an investment in animals and in our residents who will welcome them into their homes.”

The 2,100 square foot addition is the first add-on to the building since it was built in 2001. The expansion includes space for indoor playgroups, training and meetings, new signage, new fencing and gates, and new artificial turf for outdoor dog play areas. The expansion includes an overhead door that opens into freshly renovated outdoor play areas.

“The Cuyahoga County Animal Shelter is one of the best county animal shelters in the country,” said District 11 Councilwoman Sunny Simon. “During my time as a County Councilwoman, I have seen the work Administrator Mindy Naticchioni has done under the new form of government to increase placement rates and create an environment where I know dogs will be taken care of.”

The shelter expansion was made possible with American Rescue Plan Act funding from Councilwoman Sunny Simon and the generosity of community donors. Upgrades to the shelter will enhance support for our canine community and help Cuyahoga County maintain its status as a national leader in providing for the care and well-being of animals in need.

“This investment is a big step forward for the County’s animal welfare community, strengthening our ability to engage residents and offer more adoption opportunities,” said County Animal Shelter Administrator Mindy Naticchioni. “With more space and improved facilities, we can offer better support to our dedicated staff and volunteers, providing them with the resources they need to help socialize and care for our dogs, while preparing them for lives with their new families.”

View the photos from today's event.

View the photos of the new space and amenities.

Visit the website to learn more about the Cuyahoga County Animal Shelter and view a list of adoptable dogs.