“…Loven Contracting, The Architecture Company, and Shelter Planners of America [are] collaborating on a design that does more than simply shelter frightened and lost dogs and cats: it’s designed to meet our growing communities for decades to come.”

Currently in progress, Gila County’s new animal shelter will include 27 separate indoor/outdoor kennels for dogs, 2 larger kennels specifically designed for puppies, and 3 kennels for quarantined/medical dogs, a grooming room, a “get acquainted room,” and an adjacent fenced yard where potential adoptees and prospective new owners may spend time together to ensure a good match. The fenced yard expands opportunities for volunteers, too; people willing to help socialize shelter pets can chaperone them for outdoor play and exercise.

For cats, the shelter includes a “Community Cats” room and “Catio,” along with feline-specific meet-and-greet rooms. Ten individual cages allow cats to be housed separately when needed.

Industrial grade HVAC will keep animals cool and safe through Gila County’s frequent 100+ degree summer days, and together with an integrated pressure-washer, will ensure a hygienic and sanitary environment. Additional spaces include a surgical area and animal quarantine unit, rooms for animals other than cats and dogs, and a Sally port where a mobile veterinary van can provide additional surgical, medical, and dental services. The site will also include a septic system to process gray water and waste since it does not have access to the County sewer.

A private owner selected Loven Contracting to construct a state-of-the-art indoor riding arena, stables, and kennel in Doney Park, Arizona. Loven Contracting worked closely with the owner and architect to deliver a facility that features an expansive 28,000SF indoor riding arena, 6,700SF stables for up to 30 horses, a kennel capable of housing 100 dogs, and support facilities with tack storage, veterinary and observation kennels, exam and grooming spaces, and adjacent living quarters for caretaker and kennel staff.

A significant amount of construction on the project was completed during the winter. Additional features include healthcare and training equipment, cast-in-place concrete kennel beds with heating systems, site-built structural trusses, structural insulated panels for the roof, and two roof and underground water harvesting systems. These features and finishes enable this Northern Arizona facility to be functional, durable and meet the owner’s programming requirements. 

Photos: Winquist Photography

Loven Contracting partnered with High Country Humane (formerly Second Chance Center for Animals) to construct the organization’s expansive 20,000 SF, state-of-the-art limited intake animal center and training facility in Flagstaff, Arizona. This no-kill shelter features a veterinary clinic, boarding areas, outdoor play area, offices, retail space, and a reclaimed water system for kennel wash and other non-potable use.