Missoula Animal Services is in the midst of a significant expansion and renovation project aimed at improving care for the city’s growing population of shelter animals. Despite the active construction zone, the shelter has remained open to the public, continuing to offer adoptions and accepting donations as usual.

Operating Through Construction, Staying Open to the Community

Currently, staff members are working out of a temporary trailer located in the facility’s parking lot. While the construction site presents a few challenges—such as tighter quarters and the buzz of building equipment—Missoula Animal Services has kept its doors open to pet lovers and supporters.

"I feel like we've had great support from the generous community people that come in to our building. Currently, we're in a trailer. Everybody's very excited to see the project. Some have known about the project, some are seeing it for the first time when they pull into our driveway or a parking lot," said Holli Hargrove, the manager of Missoula Animal Services.

The remodel is part of a long-term vision to improve shelter conditions, expand capacity, and upgrade facilities for both animals and staff. Once completed, the renovated building will offer updated kennel spaces, medical areas, and more comfortable environments for both adoptable pets and the people who care for them.

Community Support Needed During Kitten Season and Beyond

The shelter expects construction to be finished by September, but in the meantime, staff and volunteers are working hard to maintain services while also raising funds to complete the expansion. As kitten season ramps up—a time when shelters typically see a surge in animal intake—Missoula Animal Services is especially in need of foster homes, volunteers, and financial contributions.

Donations can be made online through the Missoula County website or delivered in person at the shelter, where staff continue to welcome visitors and adopters.

"This project is going to allow us to take excellent care of the animals in the transition time from when they were at their last home until they come to their new home. And so people who want to be recognized as community leaders in animal welfare have opportunities to have some parts of the building named after them, the kennels and some of the other rooms in the building," said Graham Roy, development coordinator for Missoula Animal Services.

A Vision for a Modernized Shelter

The expansion is more than just a physical upgrade—it's a reflection of Missoula’s commitment to animal welfare and community engagement. The updated facility will provide more space for incoming animals, enhanced sanitation systems, and designated areas for public education and events. It also aligns with growing public interest in shelter animal advocacy, particularly in the post-pandemic era, where adoptions have surged and support for animal causes continues to grow.

Missoula Animal Services plans to celebrate the project’s completion with a ribbon cutting and open house in the fall. Until then, the organization is inviting the community to continue its support by spreading awareness, volunteering time, fostering pets in need, or contributing to the shelter’s fundraising goals.

For more information on how to get involved or donate, visit missoulacounty.us and search for “Animal Services.”

Originally reported by Ethan Jamba in Non Stop Local News.