Shelter pets sweating it out
Donations sought for new air handlers at Almost Home
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The dogs and cats at the Almost Home Humane Society of North Central Iowa have been sweating it out just like everyone has been recently.
But they face an additional challenge: old, balky air handlers that frequently break down, sending temperatures soaring to 80 degrees inside the shelter building.
The staff at the shelter at 725 S. 32nd St. has brought in fans to cool the building and purchased plastic wading pools for the dogs to cool off in.
But the ultimate solution is an expensive one – replacing the air handlers.
"They are pretty much at the end of their life and we have no choice but to replace them," said Ashley Tuttle, executive director of the humane society.
"We have 30 dogs and 60 cats and all of them definitely need to be comfortable in their environment until they find their forever home," she added.
New air handlers will cost about $155,000 she said.
"We need the community's help," Tuttle said.
The humane society is now seeking donations to help pay for the new air handlers.
Donations can be mailed, made in person at the shelter or online.
The current air handlers are the original ones in the building and are about 16 years old. Tuttle said parts are harder and harder to find. The society has had to spend thousands of dollars getting parts custom made.
After the funding for new air handlers is secured, it will take about five weeks to get them manufactured.
How to help
Donations for new air handlers at the animal shelter can be made three ways:
Mail to: Almost Home Humane Society of North Central Iowa
725 S. 32nd St.
Fort Dodge, IA 50501
Online at almosthomeiowa.com. Select how to donate on the main menu
In person at the shelter, 725 S. 32nd St.