- Background
Kitsap Humane Society (KHS) is renovating its large dog kennels
specifically 26 kennels.
These renovations are expected to require a temporary closure of over half of the dog kennels, for an estimated 4-6 weeks.
- Foster Home Request
While the kennel work is ongoing, KHS is urgently seeking foster homes for large dogs (40 pounds and up) to temporarily house them.
The foster care period coincides with the kennel renovation timeframe.
- Purpose and Need
The renovations are necessary to update/enhance the facility’s ability to care safely and comfortably for dogs. Probably includes structural improvements, cleanliness, safety measures, etc. (though specific renovation details are not fully detailed in public sources).
Since more than half of the large-dog kennel capacity will be offline temporarily, without foster homes these dogs could face overcrowding or reduced care. Thus, foster homes help maintain welfare standards during the construction period.
- Implications & Challenges
Aspect Implications
Animal Welfare Ensures large dogs aren’t confined to inadequate space during renovations; fosters can provide better individualized care and less stress.
Foster-Care System Strain Large dogs require more space, more effort, potentially more cost; recruiting foster homes for such dogs is often more challenging.
Community Support Required Success hinges on local residents willing to open their homes temporarily. Also may need support in the form of supplies, veterinary care, etc.
Timeline Sensitivity Delays in recruiting fosters or in renovation could strain capacity. The 4-6 week shutdown is a limited time; commitments must align.
- Conclusion
Kitsap Humane Society’s decision to renovate its large dog kennel facility is a necessary improvement to maintain quality care, but it creates a temporary capacity gap. Their call for foster homes, particularly for large dogs, is a strategic measure to ensure animal welfare continues during construction. Community participation is critical to making this plan successful.