By Scott Cole

As the old saying goes, dogs are man’s best friend. They are faithful companions that bring us lots of joy. All they ask for in return is a good home.

Three major hurricanes over the last 20 years have resulted in many pets being abandoned or given up for adoption. Currently, the Lenoir County SPCA shelter is filled to capacity and needs to expand. To that end, the organization has purchased land on U.S. 258 North in Kinston, near the Country View Animal Hospital.

On average, the Lenoir County SPCA cares for 2,500 animals per year, with their funding coming solely from donations. To build a new facility they need to raise $100,000.

“We have been raising money quietly for about 10 years,” Lenoir County SPCA President Jerry Henderson said. “Our current facility was built in 1978. The way we treat animals has changed a lot in 40 years. (Our current facility) is not big enough, it's too expensive to operate and no longer meets our needs.

“We have some blueprints that are essentially completed and we own the property. Right now, we are in the process of going through all the environmental permits (needed) to build and then we'll have to apply for a construction loan (if the $100,000 donation goal isn't reached). We hope to be breaking ground early next year.”

The proposed new facility would be equipped with more temperature control than the current SPCA shelter. Additionally, each dog would have its own kennel and be able to go outside into its own pen for fresh air and exercise. These new kennels would also be easier to clean as the animals would not have to be moved during the process.

“Our shelter cannot adequately (care for) all the animals that we have now,” said Lenoir County SPCA board member Mary Kelley. “We desperately need a new space that is more up to date."

Kelley says the new facility would also feature walking paths which would provide a safer environment for volunteers to walk dogs.

The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals and the American Humane Society have deemed October "Adopt-a-Dog Month". While the Lenoir County SPCA is not affiliated with either organization, they share the same goal.

“We look at dogs the same way people look at children,” Henderson said. "Every animal deserves to lead a good, comfortable, happy life. When these dogs get the attention they crave, they perk up. They will give you all the love they have to give and that's really a wonderful thing.”

You can donate to the Lenoir County SPCA by visiting www.lenoircountyspca.org or their GoFundMe page.

If you prefer to donate in person, donations will be collected at Kinston’s Brew ‘N Que event on October 20, which will also feature a “Puppy Kissing Booth” and baked doggie treats for sale.