WASHINGTON, Iowa — October 22, 2025 — Construction officially began this week on the new PAWS & More Animal Shelter, marking a major expansion that will nearly double the facility’s space for animals in need.
Workers and volunteers gathered with gold shovels on Wednesday to kick off the project, celebrating a milestone for the shelter and the Washington County community.
“This new building will give dogs and other animals both indoor and outdoor access at all times, providing a much more comfortable and stimulating environment,” said a PAWS & More spokesperson.
The new shelter is expected to be fully operational in about a year, offering expanded room for adoption-ready animals and enhanced care facilities for residents of Washington County and surrounding areas.
Construction on the new facility comes just a week after the shelter welcomed 12 animals rescued from a rural area in Washington County, underscoring the growing need for more space and resources.
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“Our community has been incredibly supportive, and this expansion allows us to care for more animals, improve adoption rates, and provide volunteers and staff with a better working environment,” the spokesperson added.
The upgraded shelter will include modernized kennels, larger play areas, and improved outdoor spaces, allowing animals more freedom to roam safely. Volunteers and staff anticipate the new facility will significantly enhance the adoption experience, offering prospective pet owners a better view of the animals’ personalities and needs.
PAWS & More encourages community members to donate, adopt, or foster as construction continues. Contributions will support the new building, animal care, and future programming.
“We are grateful for every volunteer, donor, and community member who has made this expansion possible,” said the spokesperson. “Together, we’re building a brighter future for animals in Washington County.”
For more information on how to donate, adopt, or foster, visit the PAWS & More website.
Originally reported by Kaylee Wynne in Iowa News Now.
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