Securing the Future: Gouverneur's Dog Pound Faces Mandatory Upgrades

In the heart of the north country, the Gouverneur-Rossie Dog Pound is facing a critical challenge. As New York State prepares to implement new regulations for animal shelters, the pound's owner, Dan Moyer, is racing against the clock to secure the necessary funding for a complete overhaul of the facility. With a laundry list of upgrades required, including a new heating and cooling system, Moyer is determined to ensure the pound's continued operation and the well-being of the canine residents in his care.

Lifeline for Gouverneur's Canine Caretakers

Navigating the Mandate: Upgrading the Pound

Starting in 2025, New York State will require all animal shelters to meet specific standards, putting the Gouverneur-Rossie Dog Pound in a precarious position. The estimated cost for the necessary upgrades at Moyer's pound is a staggering $130,000, with the HVAC system alone costing $37,500. Recognizing the financial burden, the town of Gouverneur has stepped in with a $30,000 loan to help Moyer cover 80% of the HVAC system's cost. This lifeline, as Moyer describes it, is a crucial step in ensuring the pound's compliance with the state's mandates.

Securing Additional Funding: Grants and Fundraising

While the town's loan provides a significant boost, Moyer is still faced with the challenge of finding the remaining $7,500 needed for the HVAC system. Undeterred, he has turned to other avenues to secure the necessary funds. Moyer has applied for a $100,000 state grant, which, if approved, would cover the remaining cost of the upgrades and allow him to repay the town's loan. However, if the grant application is unsuccessful, Moyer will need to continue his fundraising efforts to keep the pound operational.

Commitment to the Canines: Ensuring Adoptions and Shelter

At the heart of Moyer's mission is the well-being of the dogs in his care. The Gouverneur-Rossie Dog Pound serves as a temporary home for numerous canines, with the ultimate goal of finding them loving, permanent families. Moyer is determined to see as many of his dogs adopted as possible, even if it means keeping them in the pound for an extended period. He recognizes the importance of providing a safe and comfortable environment for these adoptable pups, and he is willing to go the extra mile to ensure their needs are met.

Facing the Deadline: Compliance or Closure

The clock is ticking for Moyer and the Gouverneur-Rossie Dog Pound. If the necessary upgrades are not completed by the end of 2024, the state will grant a 30-day extension. Failure to meet the requirements within that timeframe could result in the pound's closure, leaving Moyer and his team with the daunting task of finding new homes for the dogs in their care. With the stakes so high, Moyer is determined to leave no stone unturned in his quest to secure the funding and resources needed to keep the pound operational and compliant with the state's regulations.As the north country community rallies behind the Gouverneur-Rossie Dog Pound, the future of this vital institution hangs in the balance. With the unwavering commitment of Moyer and the support of local authorities, the pound's canine residents may find their forever homes, and the community can rest assured that their furry friends are in good hands.