Adoptable dogs Draco and Tootsie play at the Marshall County Animal Shelter in Moundsville. The shelter will soon receive additional kennel runs to give dogs more fresh air and space to run. (Photo Provided)

The Marshall County Animal Shelter will soon be getting additional space for its adoptable dogs to get exercise and fresh outdoor air.

The Marshall County Commission recently approved spending about $465,000 with Grae-Con Construction of Steubenville to build additional kennel runs at the shelter, said Marshall County Commission President Scott Varner.

“Five years ago we did a lot of improvements out there and it’s the second half of those runs we’re doing now,” he said. “Once the paperwork is signed the goal is get it done as quick as possible. Once it’s signed it will be about a four-month project.”

Varner said funding for the project was set aside from the county’s general fund. He noted the county is fortunate to have the money available to do such a project.

The shelter is owned by the county but is operated by the Marshall County Animal Rescue League.

“There was clearly a need. … We as a commission feel we need to make sure we take care of everything and that is part of it,” he said.