New cat and small companion animal facility renovation to be unveiled
The Animal Welfare League of Arlington will mark 70 years of improving the lives of animals on Saturday, June 7, 2014. This milestone will be commemorated with the official unveiling of the newly renovated, state-of-the-art cat and small companion animal residence during a Sunset Soiree from 5p.m. to 8p.m. at AWLA.
Started from a humble beginning in 1944 with a small group of 12 volunteers, AWLA has evolved into one of Northern Virginia’s premier animal shelters with over 400 dedicated staff and volunteers, a modern veterinary surgical suite, a formal humane education program and community services.
“For seven decades the mission to improve the lives of animals has remained steadfast,” said Neil Trent, president/CEO, AWLA. “Over 3,000 companion animals benefit from the League each year with 92 percent of sheltered animals in 2013 either being placed for adoption, reunited with their owner or transferred to our network of rescue and rehabilitation partners. Additionally, more than 9,000 residents in Arlington county and neighboring communities benefit from AWLA programs, services and events each year.”
AWLA continues to progressively improve the intake and quality of life for shelter animals. Annually, AWLA receives approximately 900 cats with an average length of stay of 35 days. With no time limit for any of its animals, some cats may live at the shelter for as long as a year prior to finding permanent homes. The renovated feline and small companion residence is designed to enhance the animals’ quality of life and facilitate quicker adoptions.
“I can’t think of a better way to celebrate our 70 years of existence than by unveiling our latest improvement for the animals in our care,” said Trent. “Our commitment to providing animals with the best standards of care is exemplified through this renovation.”
The new facility, designed by Animal Arts, a nationally recognized architecture firm specializing in animal shelter and veterinary clinic design, includes cageless cat colonies; larger cat cages with spaces for hiding, perching and stretching; enlarged windows to provide more natural light; private “get acquainted” rooms; new cat receiving and isolation rooms; and a high-tech HVAC system to promote animal health.
On Saturday, June 7th, AWLA will be closed for adoptions, but the public is invited to share in AWLA’s 70th anniversary celebration during a Sunset Soiree from 5p.m.to 8p.m. at the Animal Welfare League of Arlington. Attendees will be able to take a tour of the renovated space and meet some adoptable animals along the way. The outdoor, tented event will include drinks, hors d’oeuvres and live music by Smithsonian Masterworks Orchestra Quintet. Tickets are $70 and available for purchase at the League or www.awla.org.
