It’s been a minute since our last construction update, so we have some cool things to catch up on. Number one, The Big Animal Barn on the south end of campus is nearly complete! Cement has been poured, walls and windows are in, and light posts have been lit. And a few staff members even had the opportunity to leave handprints in the new cement floors. What’s more, parking stops have been installed in the new lot, so it’s just a matter of time before parking on the street will be a thing of the past. You can read a bit more about The Barn and its new name in the upcoming issue of our magazine (page 7).

Up north a bit, the remodeling of the Admissions Center continues. Offices have been shuffled, a new breakroom has taken over the former veterinary office, Foster has moved into the surgical space, and outside signage has been installed. There’s still a bit to do, but everyone is settling into their new digs nicely. We’ve even done a little makeover in the Adoption Center lobby, moving the retail space to make sure our resident rabbits have a window view, and creating a Shy Cat Colony for our more timid feline friends.

And on the walking trails, Troop 1819 of the Rainy City Scouts spent last weekend digging and lifting and chopping and hammering – building steps on the trails to give our volunteer dog walkers better footing. Thank you to the scouts, their family members, and especially one very cool dad who was putting in some serious labor.

We have quite a bit going on off-campus as well. On November 18, we’ll be hosting Comedy Unleashed at the beautiful Kiana Lodge. It’s a howlingly funny night of stand-up featuring four of Kitsap’s top comics – all benefiting KHS. Beginning tomorrow – November 3 – at 5 p.m., we’ll be opening up bidding at our Online Holiday Gift Auction. The auction’s open until November 19, so you have plenty of time to do your holiday shopping without even leaving the house. Your opportunity to get your pet’s picture with Santa is happening at Santa Paws, November 19 and December 2, 10, and 16. And throughout the rest of the year, we’re partnering with local businesses like Mud Bay, PNW Massage Therapy, Maynard’s Restaurant, and Johnny Coffee to bring holiday cheer to the animals in our care. Check out our calendar of events for more details!