The Prince William County Animal Shelter has introduced a new van equipped with 10 adjustable kennels, enhancing the efficiency and comfort for animal control operations. This addition is a significant upgrade from the existing four-by-four vehicles that house fewer vehicles and lack modern amenities.
Debbie Haight, spokesperson for the county animal shelter, detailed the van’s layout and its capacity to adapt to various sizes of animals. “It has 10 containers, and these units can be modified to accommodate larger animals if necessary,” Haight explained. Unlike the current units that require animals to be brought back immediately due to inadequate facilities, the new van features a sophisticated HVAC system, allowing officers to manage multiple pickups without returning.
The van, operated by the shelter’s animal control officers, represents an upgrade over the older trucks. “The current trucks have a capability of just four units and are often congested with equipment,” Haight said. In contrast, the new van dedicates more space to animal containers, providing a less cramped environment.
Haight highlighted the types of calls the van would respond to, including scenarios with multiple animals. “This van is assigned to one of the supervisors, and it will be dispatched for calls involving multiple animals,” she noted, emphasizing its role in improving response times across the county’s more than 300 square miles.
The shelter picks up many animals, from common pets like cats and dogs to more exotic ones like peacocks and potbelly pigs. “We’ve even picked up strays like cows and have facilities for larger animals,” Haight shared.
Amid rising pet surrenders, Haight also addressed the shelter’s current capacity challenges, explaining that they are nearing full capacity and now require appointments for animal surrenders. “It’s a combination of factors, including economic pressures and lifestyle changes post-COVID,” she observed, indicating a broader trend affecting shelters throughout the region.
This van is the first of its kind, with plans to introduce a second similarly equipped van soon. Additionally, the shelter will continue to update its fleet with more trucks suited for diverse terrain and needs. The shelter, which moved to a new 28,000 square foot facility in November 2021, is also expanding its capacity to better accommodate large animals and improve its service offerings in the community.
A note to you, our readers:
Local news keeps a community strong and informed. This story is free to read, but it costs money to bring it to you. If you rely on us for local news and haven’t already, please support us by becoming a member!
- Join our Locals Only Membership Today!
-
Author
Recent Stories
[Data: Virginia Department of Education]Manassas City Public Schools’s Standards of Learning (SOL) average pass rates are a mixed bag coming out of the 2023-2024 school year. In a report released…
The Prince William County Police Department, a nationally accredited law enforcement agency through the Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies (CALEA), has launched an online portal to gather community feedback as part of its accreditation process.
Mark Wolfe has been a member of the Manassas City Council for 16 years, and he’s running for re-election in 2024.
A former Gander Mountain store at 14011 Worth Avenue in Woodbridge will be used as a mental health crisis center. Prince William County is developing a new Crisis Receiving Center…
Established transportation company has immediate part-time position open as a back-up driver transporting military personnel from the Woodbridge area to Baltimore and Richmond. No CDL required but must be able to pass DOT physical and drug test. Must good driving record and pass criminal background check. Send resume with references to [email protected] or call 606-594-7018
Job details
Employer: Bfs Transportation
Position: 15 Passenger Van Driver
Employment type: Part-time
Workplace type: Fully in-person (in Woodbridge)
Compensation: Not specified
Application deadline: Not specified
Contact for application questions: Not specified
Mozart’s Don Giovanni thrillingly explores the passions and perils of love, morality, and the inevitable fallout of reckless choices, all centered on the daring exploits of Don Giovanni. His seductive adventures ignite intense encounters and fierce conflicts with unforgettable characters like Donna Anna, Donna Elvira, and Zerlina. The electrifying drama pulls audiences into a world of intrigue, where every action has thrilling consequences. Join us at the Embassy of Austria, September 13th at 7:30 pm for what will be an exhilarating night of opera!
Maestro Julien Benichou, Conductor
featuring:
Propel 2024 “The Launch”
Elevate your spirit and renew your soul at Propel 2024: “The Launch”! This extraordinary conference is more than just an event—it’s a powerful journey of faith, fellowship, and flavorful food designed to inspire and transform. Seize this life-changing opportunity to
2024 Van Metre Cornhole Challenge
Participate in the 2024 Van Metre Cornhole Challenge, where every toss helps build brighter futures, and all proceeds support the construction of ten new townhomes through Habitat for Humanity. Plus, enjoy unlimited food and drinks, and compete for a chance
