By CHRIS KREPICH, Press Enterprise Writer
MOUNT PLEASANT TWP. — The Animal Resource Center (ARC) has to move due to a falling out with its landlord, but it needs money to build more kennels at its soon-to-be home. The group would eventually like to house 16 dogs and 40 cats, but that would require about $100,000, says volunteer Linda Bird.
ARC has been leasing land from Paula and Delbert Miller here, but the Millers ended the lease five or six years early, Bird said. Now, she says ARC has about four months to move under a judge's order.
ARC has 20 acres of its own near Eyers Grove, but it needs funding to build kennels for the animals it rescues, said volunteer Jason Barreca.
The ARC, formed seven years ago, has eight dogs in its care now on the Miller property. It will move the existing kennel to the new land, but it will not have room for more animals until more kennels are built.
ARC plans to use modular kennels so it can expand as it has the money. Each modular unit will house eight dogs or cats, and will cost $20,000 to $25,000, Barreca said. He said the group is hoping to have enough funds soon to get the first new unit completed.
"We're building as fast as we can," he said. "As fast as money allows."
A place for straysARC holds several fundraisers each year. A large yard sale in the old Ames building at the Columbia Mall is set for Oct. 15-18.
Donations can also be made by calling 784-3669. ARC is nonprofit and donations are tax deductible.
Bird said the group helps police by taking in loose animals, but it mostly takes care of stray cats and dogs. Those animals get medical care, and they are spayed or neutered if needed. Volunteers then work to find them good, permanent homes.
Chris Krepich covers the Danville area. He can be reached at 275-2104 or krep@pressenterprise.net.
