NEW ORLEANS — Animal Rescue New Orleans will host a groundbreaking celebration at 2 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 24 at 160 Brookhollow Esplanade in Elmwood.
Founded in 2006, ARNO is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, volunteer-based organization dedicated to the rescue and aid of abandoned and homeless animals. It promotes the foster and adoption of pets — and works to reunite lost animals with their families. It also provides spaying and neutering services for all companion animals through its no-kill shelter.
Since its inception, ARNO has operated out of an old warehouse on Plauche Street near Jefferson Highway. Kathy Perra, the shelter’s president, said the space needs many repairs and isn’t big enough to house the growing operation. The lack of central air and heat is another problem. Despite these less-than-ideal conditions, Perra said ARNO has been able to provide refuge and new homes for 12,500 animals over the last 18 years
The new shelter, made possible by a donation from Frank and Paulette Stewart, will be a game changer.
“For ARNO to finally have a permanent home, a facility equipped to be a true animal shelter with all of the amenities and resources needed to care for our pets is a dream come true,” said Perra. “For the first time, we will have central air conditioning and heat, outdoor exercise yards and indoor play areas, and dedicated spaces for adoptions, training, medical care and so much more.”
Perra said the new shelter will boost capacity for dogs and cats by 15% with the potential for expansion.
Construction on the new facility is underway and expected to be completed this fall.
