Prineville animal shelter celebrates long-awaited, hard-earned expansion with public event
Claire Elmer
PRINEVILLE, Ore. (KTVZ) — In Prineville, dozens of wagging tails are settling into a brand-new space…one that’s been nearly 10 years in the making. The Humane Society of the Ochocos (HSO) has officially opened its new dog wing, and marked the accomplishment with a grand opening event for the public.
The previous shelter was built in 1995 and was only meant to be temporary. Still, even with limited space and aging infrastructure, staff and volunteers made it work for nearly three decades.
Rebecca Ott, president of the board of directors, told KTVZ News support from the community was crucial in the new wing. “We started with fundraisers—golf tournaments, casino night, adoption events. There’s been a lot of big donations and sponsors,” said Ott.
The new space includes 43 kennels, more room for animals and staff, and cleaner, quieter conditions for dogs who have already been through a lot. The dogs now have their own kennels, as opposed to the old building in which they needed to be doubled-up.
It’s a milestone made possible by years of dedication, community events, and local giving. It was all part of a long-term plan called “Vision 2020.” The goal: build a better shelter, one phase at a time.
Chanda Wallace, executive director of HSO, spoke at the ribbon-cutting. “As we celebrate phase one of our project, we remain hopeful and excited about the future. With your continued support, we can bring phases two and three to life,” said Wallace.
Phase two expands the cat wing and phase three includes a new administrative building.
But on Saturday, the focus was on celebrating how far the shelter has come. For those who helped make it happen, the reward is greater than anything tangible.
Speakers during the event included both shelter staff and construction staff that worked together on the project. One speaker exclaimed to the crowd, “look how far we’ve come!” Another spoke of the team effort by saying, “it’s not about one person — it’s about everybody.”
The team at HSO says they’re just getting started. From spay and neuter programs to dog walking and fostering initiatives, they’re inviting the public to join the next chapter. You can visit their website here for more information on volunteering, fostering, donation needs, and more.
This new home is just the beginning…both for the animals, and the people working to give them a second chance.