P.E.I. Humane Society looking to raise $3M as work on new shelter begins

Work has begun on a new $5.8-millionbuilding for cats, dogs and other pets waiting to be adopted on P.E.I.

Site levelling has begun on theP.E.I. Humane Society property on Sherwood Road in Charlottetown, with construction expected to start soon.

The society had originally planned to expand the shelter's existing building.

However, managersopted to build a new shelter on the 0.8-hectare property when they were unable to find a temporary location to house the animals during the renovations, said Ashley Travis, development andcommunications co-ordinator for the PEIHS.

The cost of the project will be about $5.8 million, she said Wednesday. The shelter has raised$2.8 million so far through a fundraising campaign, and it is looking for community support to help finance the remainder.

Travis said they'd like to have the money raised by the end of the year.

"This is something that Prince Edward Island really, really needs," she said.

"We can't continue operating at the capacity we are currently. So if we don't exist or we can't exist at the capacity that's needed, it could be really challenging for animals and for families."

Anyone wishing to donate can visit the humane society'swebsite.