With help from volunteer Larry Darley of Cascade Designs, Gray said the group contacted a number of contractors and researched various building types. It was the best building for our money. The non-profit organization decided to build a shelter more than four years ago. Since then, volunteers have been trying to raise and solicit funds for such a project. Volunteers now offer their homes to unwanted, homeless animals, but Okanogan County does not have any kind of animal shelter.
Several cities operate pounds for short-term stays of city dogs and cats.
It's important to have a central location, especially since Animal Foster Care doesn't have enough foster homes, Gray said. She added animal populations continue to multiply each year. Last year Okanogan County commissioners approved a 99-year lease on 2.5 acres with utility services to be used for an animal shelter. Animal Foster Care will not pay rent for the use and occupation of the property. In the meantime, several projects need to be completed before its arrival.