Newcastle Animal Shelter Opens
State-of-the-art facility designed to support 27 dogs and 12 cats
On an inspiring day for animal lovers and community members, the Newcastle Animal Shelter opened its doors on Monday, March 11, at 717 N. Walker Dr., Newcastle, OK 73065. The new facility is a testament to the city's dedication to improving the lives of its four-legged residents. It boasts innovative design features to provide the best animal care and a welcoming space for prospective adopters. Twenty-eight animals were returned to their owners, and 38 were adopted by the City of Newcastle's animal control department in 2023. The new facility is purpose-built to accommodate up to 27 dogs and 12 cats at one time.
The shelter features state-of-the-art amenities, such as spacious living quarters, outdoor exercise areas and advanced medical facilities to ensure the health and well-being of its four-legged residents.
Guernsey, a design and consulting firm in Oklahoma City, and Nabholz Construction proudly hosted a ribbon-cutting ceremony celebrating the grand opening of the shelter. The ceremony brought together city officials, community members and animal welfare advocates to celebrate the shelter's potential to change the lives of abandoned and homeless animals.
“As a growing city, Newcastle must maintain a high standard of service for our citizens,” stated Newcastle City Manager Kevin Self. “By working with knowledgeable partners, we ensure the efficient allocation of tax dollars in Newcastle. This animal shelter is a prime example of our practical approach, as we address not only our current needs but also anticipate future demands.”
The shelter promises a comfortable and safe haven for animals until they find permanent homes and exudes a loving and compassionate atmosphere. For physical activity, 12 dog runs, directly accessible from the inside, lead to an exterior area, ensuring that dogs enjoy plenty of fresh air and sunlight. Moreover, a play yard is available for dogs to exercise and engage with potential adopters, fostering their physical health and sociability.
"Teaming up with the City of Newcastle and Nabholz Construction, we’ve created more than just a shelter. It’s a dynamic space that not only meets today’s animal care standards but also sets the stage for future growth,” said Guernsey Architect Keith Holman. “This collaboration is all about putting our furry friends first and making the community stronger together.”
As the Newcastle Animal Shelter begins its operations, the city looks forward to seeing the positive impact on animal welfare. The shelter offers refuge to animals in need and provides education and engagement opportunities for the community, fostering a deeper connection between Newcastle's residents and their animal companions.
Guernsey has applied strategic construction methods with future expansion in mind, reflecting the anticipated growth of Newcastle. This approach guarantees that the shelter will meet the immediate needs of the city’s animals and remain adaptable and scalable.
The Newcastle Animal Shelter invites the community to visit its new facility at 717 N. Walker Dr., Newcastle, OK. Open to potential adopters and supporters, the shelter aims to foster connections between pets and families, ensuring every animal finds a caring and permanent home.
