(Photo by Shelley Hanson) Marshall County officials visit with adoptable dog Bunni on Monday at the Marshall County Animal Shelter’s new outdoor kennels. From left are Marshall County Commission President Scott Varner, Marshall County Animal Rescue League President Connie Grisell and Abby Bateman, executive director of the shelter.

MOUNDSVILLE – Marshall County Animal Shelter officials are celebrating the completion of their new outdoor kennels for adoptable dogs.

Abby Bateman, executive director of the shelter, gathered with Marshall County Commission President Scott Varner and Marshall County Animal Rescue League President Connie Grisell on Monday at the shelter to present the new runs to the media.

The $450,000 project involved removing the existing dilapidated kennels and replacing them along with adding some new ones. There are now a total of 34 runs.

“We’re super excited to be able to put the dogs out in a safe environment during the day,” Bateman said. “Everything is new. They tore everything out and started fresh. … This will last forever.”

The old runs had cracked, damaged concrete, deteriorating roofs and loose fencing.

Now, in addition to fresh concrete pads, there is also new fencing, new concrete sidewalks, new roofing structures atop the kennels, and access to two different water hose stations to make cleaning the kennels easier.

Bateman said having outdoor kennels allows the dogs to get fresh air and sunlight.

Bateman added the recent changes to how the shelter conducts adoptions has been successful. Instead of a long application process people are interviewed and fill out a shorter application.

“We’ve moved to more of an open adoption,” she said. “So we ask that you fill out kind of a survey. Then our staff does adoption counseling. They have a conversation with you and look and see what your household is like and what you’re looking for. Then they can match you up with dogs they know would be a good fit.”

The shelter currently has 11 dogs and two cats available. Bateman noted last weekend many animals were adopted, helping bring the number down.

“Two weeks ago we had 30-some dogs. We were over capacity, but the community has really stepped up and we’ve had some good weekends,” she said. “We’re down to a manageable number now.”

Grisell thanked the county commission for its funding and making the project happen. The contractor, Grae-Con Construction of Steubenville, was slated to conduct a final inspection today before allowing the dogs to use the kennels.

“We’ve always felt the animal rescue league has done a tremendous job. We wanted it to be a safe environment for the animals and the staff,” Varner said. “The staff is excited and the county commission is, too. It looks tremendous and Grae-Con did a great job.”