Santa Cruz SPCA Celebrates Groundbreaking of New Shelter

The Santa Cruz SPCA hosted more than 100 supporters on Sunday, May 19th at The Inn at Pasatiempo to celebrate the groundbreaking of its future, purpose-built animal shelter on Chanticleer Avenue. Guests enjoyed appetizers and beverages while mingling with other animal lovers and the adoptable dogs in attendance.

The Santa Cruz SPCA currently operates from a cramped, 1,200-square-foot rented bungalow. The future shelter, projected for completion in spring of 2020, will be a 7,092-square-foot facility. It will include 3,500 square feet of modern animal habitats, dedicated isolation and intake areas, custom “catios” and kennels, multiple yards, and a large community room.

The Santa Cruz SPCA hosted the celebratory event to invite the community to become a part of the new facility, which will allow the organization to do its lifesaving work for generations to come. 63% of the $7 million price tag has already been raised through the generosity of early donors.

The organization has been an integral part of the community for more than 80 years. Each year, the Santa Cruz SPCA saves more than 500 animals through programs that rehabilitate and rehome homeless animals.

“One of the things about the new building that I’m most excited about is that in the coming years we’re going to be able to double the number of animal lives saved!” said Alison “Ali” Talley, executive director of the Santa Cruz SPCA.

The Santa Cruz SPCA is a private, nonprofit organization, which receives no federal, state, or local government funding, and relies solely on generous donations from the public. Established in 1938, the Santa Cruz SPCA is focused on ensuring the best possible quality of life for animals, and promoting respect and reverence for all.

The organization offers a comprehensive range of services and programs for the Santa Cruz community, including humane education, low-cost spay/neuter assistance, the Second Chance Fund, and Blackie’s Senior Friends.

The main shelter is located at 2685 Chanticleer Avenue in Santa Cruz. Hours are Tuesday through Sunday from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.

The SCSPCA Adoption Center and Gift Shop, located in the Capitola Mall (near Target), is open Wednesday through Sunday from 11 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.

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Further information can be obtained at 831-465-5000 or via the SCSPCA website at www.spcasc.org.