City of Great Falls Animal Shelter announces temporary changes during renovations

Great Falls, MT – The City of Great Falls Animal Shelter is excited to announce that long-anticipated renovations funded by the SLIPA grant will begin on February 1, 2025. While this work is vital, it does require temporary changes to shelter operations, and we are asking for the community’s understanding and support during this time.

The current building has reached a point where simple repairs are no longer feasible. The main focus of these renovations, managed by A&R Construction, is the replacement of deteriorating drain pipes that are frequently backing up, posing a risk of exposure to waste and increasing the potential for illness within the facility.

“This project will allow us to provide a safer, more comfortable environment for the animals in our care and improve our ability to serve the community,” said Laramie Smovir, Operations Manager of the City of Great Falls Animal Shelter. “The replacement of our deteriorating drain pipes and other essential upgrades are critical to maintaining operations. While the renovations present some temporary challenges, they are necessary to ensure the health and safety of the animals and staff, as well as the long-term sustainability of the shelter.”

Key Changes to Shelter Operations

1. January Adoption Event:
   • To reduce the number of animals in the shelter, we will hold an adoption event throughout January. Adopters will enjoy reduced fees and the opportunity to bring home a new furry family member while helping us prepare for construction.
      
2. Temporary Suspension of Public Intake:
   • Beginning January 20, 2025, the shelter will temporarily stop accepting stray animals from the public until renovations are completed (estimated completion date of April 1).
   • By February 1, the shelter must be empty of dogs to accommodate renovations.
   • Residents who find stray animals are encouraged to hold onto them and attempt to locate their owners. If they are unable to care for the animal until the owner is found, we ask that they ensure the animal is not in immediate danger and then leave it where it is, as it may still be able to find its way home.
   • Due to these operational changes, Animal Control will also have significant limitations during the renovation period. While they will continue to respond to emergent calls, their ability to take in animals will be greatly reduced as the shelter will not be available as a housing option.
      
3. Full Closure in Mid-March:
   • During the painting phase of renovations in mid-March, the shelter will need to be completely empty of animals and staff for approximately 2–3 weeks due to fumes from the resurfacing process.
   • To ensure the safety and well-being of animals during this time, any remaining animals will either be transferred to other facilities within the state or housed at an off-site location. The specific locations will not be disclosed for security and privacy reasons.

How the Community Can Help

• Adopt a Pet: Participate in our January adoption event and give a deserving animal a loving home.
• Stray Animals: Only pick up a stray animal if you are able to care for it until the owner is found. Use resources such as Pawboost, Petco Love Lost, and the Facebook group “Great Falls Lost and Found Pets” to help reunite animals with their families more quickly.
• Encourage Responsible Pet Ownership:
  • Ensure your pets have microchips and visible ID tags to make it easier to reunite them with you if they become lost. Tags and microchips are available at the shelter for a nominal fee.
  • Update your contact information associated with microchips and tags to ensure owners can be contacted without delay.
• Spread the Word: Share our updates on social media to help inform others about these temporary changes.

Stay Informed

The shelter will provide regular updates on the renovation progress and operational changes through our website and social media channels. For more information, visit greatfallsmt.net/animalshelter/2025-renovations or follow us on Facebook (@GreatFallsAnimalShelter)

We thank the Great Falls community for your understanding, patience, and support as we work to create a better shelter for our animals and citizens.