PANAMA CITY — “Fido” and “Mrs. Whiskers” will be there, and the public is invited, too, as the Humane Society of Bay County hosts its grand opening of the Bay Avenue shelter Saturday.
The event, which includes an adoption and donation drive, is scheduled from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the igloo-shaped shelter at 1600 Bay Ave.
Four years ago, the society moved out of the Igloo-shaped building due to needed renovations. It was thought to be a temporary solution while funds were raised to do the renovations, but the recession hit and funding was tight, society officials said. In recent years, the society operated out of temporary locations, most recently at a former vet clinic in Cedar Grove where it leased the property for two more years.
The society owns the land at 1600 Bay Ave. and was able to secure a mortgage on the property to fund the needed renovations, which included: a new air-conditioning system, new duct work, electrical work, a new paint job, a new drop ceiling and new built-in desks and reception desk.
“This is one of the most exciting things to happen to the Humane Society,” president Terri Davidson stated in a news release. “We are grateful of the support from the community, donors and the volunteers to make this move happen.”
The Humane Society actually moved into the renovated building in March.
The society is asking for the following wish list items: Purina Cat/Dog Chow, Purina Puppy/Kitten Chow, clumping style litter, Pine Sol, bleach, trash bags, paper towels and peanut butter.
WANT TO GO?
Who: Humane Society of Bay County
What: grand opening
When: 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday
Where: 1600 Bay Ave., Panama City
