The Drumheller and District Humane Society is taking a major step toward expanding its services for dogs with the development of new kennels at its facility in the Premier Industrial Park.
For years, the Humane Society has focused on finding homes for both cats and dogs, but currently lacks the infrastructure to house dogs on-site. Thanks to a long-standing vision and generous support, including a donation from the Estate of Clifford and Eileen Ing, that’s about to change.
President Lindsay Rothman praised the dedication of past boards whose efforts laid the groundwork for this expansion. “We’re just carrying on with that legacy,” she said. Work has already begun on constructing a temperature-controlled building inside the back bay of the facility. The new structure will provide heating, air conditioning, and sound barriers to separate the dogs from the cats housed in the front.
In addition to the physical construction, the Humane Society is working on finalizing policies, recruiting volunteers, and establishing a foster network in preparation for the kennels’ opening.
Until the new kennels are operational, the Humane Society remains unable to shelter dogs directly. They continue to offer resources and referrals to partner shelters, provide social media support for rehoming, and work with owners to find solutions for keeping dogs in homes.
On the cat side, the Humane Society continues to face challenges. After an influx of black cats—traditionally harder to adopt out—adoptions have slowed significantly. Rothman encourages the public to visit and meet the many cats still looking for homes.
The organization is actively fundraising for the kennel project, including hosting a raffle to support construction and operational costs.