The mudding of the sanctuary walls is nearing completion. The next step is paint. The fencing has been ordered for the cat runs and dogs runs. The cat runs require special fencing so it is quite a bit more than we anticipated the total cost is $5,800.
After the paint comes molding, countertops and cabinets. We have another special project we hope to complete before the opening, but we’ll save that for a surprise on opening day. Once again we are running behind schedule which seems to be par for the course. I just want to assure everyone that we are nearing the finish line so please be patient with us. We will be in the building this year.
Everyone has worked so hard and the hard work is paying off it is going to be beautiful. Most of the interior furnishings are all ready purchased and just waiting for moving day. Until then they are in storage. This has been a long bittersweet journey but we are nearing the finish line and we all hope you will be there to cheer us on for our grand opening. As we get closer to completion we will announce a date.
One thing I would like to mention is the Ark has been able to continue it’s work on a daily basis even without a building. The animals have always come first even if that meant putting construction on hold to pay a large vet bill. Our goal is to be mortgage free we never want a monthly mortgage payment to take away from the care of the animals. I think this is a pretty amazing thing and I am so proud of all of our volunteers who have worked so diligently to achieve this.
It is very expensive to put up a new building and we never knew just how expensive until we started this. The time, money and inspections were a bit overwhelming at times, but we have managed to stay on course and we are all so glad we did. We are very proud of our accomplishments.
Once we are up and running we are going to need quite a few reliable volunteers to run the place. If you think you might be interested please stop by The Hollywood Pet Salon for an application. We are also currently looking for reliable volunteers to work our bake sales and other fund raisers.
Update on Lilly the pup with the mammary gland tumors. She has been adopted to a wonderful family who has taken on the responsibility of her medical needs She is one special pup.
Thank you for your continued support and as always thank you for reading our column.
