The Blue Earth and Nicollet County Humane Society's existing building was overfilled and not designed as an animal shelter- it was actually an old house. After operating out of that building for many years, the organization decided to look for a new facility. Paulsen Architects volunteered to help the organization with early planning and design services, as well as creating marketing images assist in the capital campaign. The new Riverside Regional Pet Shelter will be able to housing for 20 dogs and 60 cats. New isolation areas for incoming animals with state-of-the-art air exchange and filtration systems will prevent the spread of disease and parasites. Full kennels with outdoor runs and play yards for dogs and condominium-style housing to allow some of the cats to live communally. The key addition to the humane society is the surgical suite, allowing for procedure to be performed with in the facility and saving the organization go off site to pet hospitals. The facility will be handicap accessible and a much safer, more efficient environment for staff and volunteers. The new "green" building (LEED GOLD), will utilize the latest technology and is dedicated to creating a sustainable, environmentally-friendly facility that will minimize operating expenses and maintenance.
