On April 3, 1997, the Animal Protection League announced the establishment of a capital building fund and fundraising campaign to build a state-of-the-art animal adoption center, emergency rescue and medical treatment facility, spay/neuter clinic, shelter, and community resource center.
Years of careful planning and expert advice have resulted in a design that incorporates the latest technology and amenities in a premier facility for the animals, the care-givers, and the general public. Homeward Bound design elements include the best advice of the HSUS, the AHA, the ASPCA, and many other experts and models across the country. Particular consideration has been given to the comfort and quality of care for the animals. The Community Resource Center within Homeward Bound is sure to be unequaled in excellence and access for all.
Facility plans call for a 2500 square foot building with an expansion plan of an additional 1000 square feet on a two-acre site just west of Burlington. The shelter will include 24 dog kennel/runs and a cattery design for 30 cats and kittens. Expansion plans will increase the facility's capacity by as much as 50 percent. The APL's foster care and placement network program will remain as a vital component of a successful shelter operation.
Won't you help in our quest to build this much-needed facility? Your support will help our forgotten animal friends who offer unconditional love and ask so little in return. You can make a difference for them.
Where will Homeward Bound be built?
The physical facility site has yet to be definitely determined. The APL has been granted a gift of two acres m/1 within the City of Middletown on which we had planned to build Homeward Bound. However, the site is currently compromised by federal easements and a fiber optic cable that has been buried diagonally across the property, making it virtually unbuildable if the Government will not agree to move the cable. While we remain hopeful that the Middletown property can be utilized, we are also continuing to search for an alternative location on which to break ground for the project.
When will building begin?
Construction will begin when an appropriate site is secured and the infrastructure has been properly prepared, including such items as utilities, water service, sewer systems, drainage, and access. Additionally, the APL Board has determined that it is prudent to ensure that there are adequate on-going sources of revenue to support the operation of the facility after it is built. Determining how Homeward Bound will financially support itself is a major challenge facing the project. There are several ideas being considered, each of which is a monumental undertaking, and is directly affected by the general economic outlook for the area. Business decisions regarding the overall operation of Homeward Bound and its ancillary enterprises will determine its ultimate success.
Are funds designated for the Homeward Bound project secure?
All gifts received and designated specifically for Homeward Bound, and those funds raised on behalf of the capital campaign are held separately from general operating revenue. They are kept in an interest-bearing account that is restricted from any other use.
Will Homeward Bound be a "No-kill" shelter? What is the meaning of No-kill?
Homeward Bound will operate as a No-Kill shelter. There are many different understandings and definitions surrounding the term "No-Kill". Homeward Bound animals will not be euthanized simply because there is not enough space available for them or in order to create additional space. Homeward Bound will serve as a supplement to our APL Pet Placement Network, as well as to area shelters and animal controls. Because most shelters are funded with tax dollars, they are required to control the pet population, and unfortunately, that often involves euthanasia. There are shelters and organizations that insist that "no-kill" shelters are not truly no-kill because they cannot accept every animal that comes to their facility. Opponents believe that no-kill shelters should be referred to as "limited admission shelters". The Animal Protection League will not pass judgment on any shelter or organization that works towards improving or enhancing animal welfare. Each has an important role and responsibility to fulfill. While they may have different philosophies and missions, ultimately we share a common goal - to help the animals. Homeward Bounds policies and procedures will allow for human euthanasia when there is fatal illness, terminal pain and suffering, dangerous temperament, hopeless injury, or a clear determination that an animal cannot be successfully place in a permanent home.
Homeward Bound and the APL will help and support the work of any organization committed to improving animal welfare. We will actively provide assistance, share information and compare experiences with no-kill shelters as well as animal control shelters across the country. By working together, will we move closer toward ending suffering for all animals and elimination the need for euthanasia based on homelessness.
