The Mesquite Animal Shelter on Gross Road is expanding with a $4 million investment project.
In a recent statement, the City of Mesquite said the renovations, which will add 2,800 square feet of space to the shelter, are projected to be completed before the end of summer. GSR Andrade, based out of Dallas, designed the upgrade, while Falkenberg Construction from Grand Prairie was contracted to complete the build.
In addition to a bigger footprint, the expansion, which began in December, will see the complex receive several enhancements:
- One-third more dog and cat adoption kennels
- A new clinic space for veterinary services
- Five additional outdoor play yards
- An updated lobby intended to produce “a more inviting atmosphere for potential adopters,” according to the city’s website
“We are excited to be able to expand and create a more comfortable space for the animals and for people interested in adopting,” stated Maria Martinez, Director of Neighborhood Services.
The news out of Mesquite contrasts with that of the Dallas Animal Shelter (DAS). As reported earlier this month by The Dallas Express, the City denied the DAS request for bond money. As a result, the DAS is not expected to see any needed updates or improvements in 2024, despite claims it remains in disarray.
Advocates fighting to improve the DAS attempted to highlight the shelter’s issues to members of the 2024 Bond subcommittee responsible for allocating funds.
“We felt it was important to show some of the dilapidation of the physical facility that’s happening at DAS. The facility is kind of in shambles — it’s not in great condition,” Rachel Gearing, a DAS Animal Advisory Commission member, said, per Dallas Culture Map.