Local business owner Glenn Stonehouse has donated $300,000 to the fundraising campaign for the Peterborough Humane Society’s new animal care centre.
Stonehouse is the owner and president of One Fine Food in Peterborough and Wildfire Golf Club in Douro-Dummer on the shores of Stoney Lake.
“A couple of years back, I had the opportunity to be involved with the Peterborough Humane Society, learning about their goals, and development in animal wellness,” Stonehouse says. “Through these discussions, I got a close view of the inner workings of PHS and the great work the organization is doing in our community, which is why I was excited to be a part of this very important build.”
Growing up on the family farm in Owen Sound, Stonehouse developed a deep love and respect for animals early on, according to a media release.
He always had dogs in his life, from working dogs on the farm to show dogs to companion animals. He came to the Peterborough area 25 years ago, when he bought a cottage on Stony Lake, and fell in love with the area.
“We’re simply blown away by Glenn’s generosity,” says Shawn Morey, executive director of the Peterborough Humane Society. “His commitment to the health and wellness of our community and the animals within it is going to make a huge impact on the future of animal wellness.”
In recognition of Stonehouse’s donation, the dog adoption program at the new centre will be named the Glenn Allan Stonehouse Dog Adoption Program.
While dogs are waiting to find their forever homes at the new centre, they will be housed in large kennels with indoor and outdoor access, providing dogs with more space and freedom. The kennels will be grouped in pods to reduce noise and stress for the dogs. Sliding guillotine doors will allow the kennels to double in size when required, such as when bonded dogs need to stay together.
Beyond improved kennel space, the dogs will also benefit from access to greater opportunities for enrichment and socialization.
The new animal care centre will include a high-volume and low-cost spay and neuter clinic, a cutting-edge dog rehabilitation centre, and an education and adoption centre.
To date, $7.5 million has been raised of the $10 million goal for the new animal centre.
For more information and to donate, visit ourpetproject.ca.
