Designing Better Shelters: Creating Spaces that Prioritize Animal and Human Well-Being
Designing animal shelters that prioritize both animal welfare and operational efficiency is crucial for the well-being of sheltered animals and the effectiveness of shelter operations. The Koret Shelter Medicine Program emphasizes that the physical facility impacts various aspects of shelter operations, including animal health, cost of operations, staffing efficiency, public perception, and the number of animals served.
Key Considerations in Shelter Facility Design
- Capacity for Care (C4C): Aligning the number of animals housed with the shelter’s ability to provide adequate care is essential. This involves assessing historical intake and outcome data to determine appropriate housing unit numbers and types. Operating within the shelter’s capacity helps ensure that each animal receives the necessary care and attention.
- Housing Design: Providing double-compartment housing allows animals to separate their living and bathroom areas, reducing stress and promoting better health. This design also facilitates spot cleaning, minimizing disruptions to the animals. For cats, incorporating portals between compartments can offer additional space and enrichment opportunities.
- Stress Reduction: Design elements such as proper ventilation, natural lighting, noise control, and providing hiding spaces or retreat areas can significantly reduce stress for animals. Lower stress levels contribute to better health outcomes and increase the likelihood of successful adoptions.
- Operational Efficiency: Thoughtful facility design can streamline daily operations, making it easier for staff to care for animals effectively. Efficient layouts reduce the time and effort required for cleaning, feeding, and medical care, allowing staff to focus more on enrichment and adoption efforts.
By integrating these principles into shelter design, organizations can create environments that support the health and well-being of animals while enhancing operational effectiveness. For more detailed guidance and resources on facility design and animal housing, see the following site: Facility Design and Animal Housing
At JVR Strategies, we understand the challenges shelters face and are here to help. Our team works alongside you to provide practical, tailored solutions that improve both animal welfare and operational efficiency. We’re committed to supporting you in creating spaces where animals and staff can thrive. To explore how we can support your shelter’s design and operational strategies, reach out to us for a consultation.
Koret Shelter Medicine Program. (2023, August 9). Facility design and animal housing. Shelter Medicine. https://www.sheltermedicine.com/library/resources/facility-design-and-animal-housing