'The turnout just amazed me': Gala raises nearly $130,000 for new dog shelter

CAMBRIDGE − Guernsey County residents turned out in droves to support building the new Guernsey County Dog Shelter.

More than 325 guests contributed more than $29,000 just in ticket sales for the recent gala fundraiser at the Pritchard Laughlin Civic Center

“I’m overwhelmed… the turnout just amazed me. It just tells you what kind of people we have in Guernsey County and surrounding counties,” said Guernsey County Sheriff Jeffrey Paden, whose office hosted the fundraiser.

The goal was to raise funds for the new Guernsey County Dog Shelter announced last year. The project is long overdue as the current shelter has been in operation since the 1950s. This new build will more than double the available kennels to house canines and will address overcrowding, sewer issues and health concerns.

The 30 new kennels and various other rooms were auctioned off by Kaufman Realty & Auctions. During the auction, $87,000 was raised by auctioning off rooms and naming rights. There was also a silent auction with more than 50 gift baskets from area businesses, 50/50 drawings and a bead game that raised several thousand dollars.

"The new shelter will also host a safe space for domestic violence victims to house their furry friends while they find a safer place to live," said Corp. Karla Kerns, assistant dog warden. The space will also provide boarding for K-9 officers in Guernsey County.

The total amount raised during the gala totaled nearly $130,000, according to Kerns, who also said donated supplies to the current shelter would be greatly appreciated.

If you missed the event, you can still purchase Memorial Tags for the shelter that will be displayed in the building once it is complete. Tags start at $25. The goal is to open this $1.6 to $2 million project for the county in 2025.

Donations can be made in person at the current shelter, 62824 Bennett Ave., or by mail. You can also visit www.fop136.org to donate. Please designate donations as “new shelter.”

For more information, contact the dog shelter at 740-432-2219.