Dream becomes reality as Carroll County animal shelter opens

Because of a dream that began 19 years ago, Carroll County now has an operating no-kill animal shelter.

Several dozen community members and supporters gathered May 30 to celebrate the grand opening and ribbon cutting of the Carroll County Animal Protection League's new animal shelter, marking the culmination of a nearly two-decade effort to provide a dedicated shelter for dogs and cats in need.

The grand opening was held at the new facility at 4901 Canton Road NW and featured tours, refreshments and a ribbon-cutting ceremony.

During the ceremony, Carroll County Animal Protection League Director Lorna Lowell-Whaley reflected on the long journey that led to the shelter's completion.

“Finally, after 19 years, many contractors, lots and lots of volunteers and thousands and thousands of donations, the dream of founder Eileen Rohrer to build an animal shelter for dogs and cats in need of sheltered care has come true,” Lowell-Whaley said.

She noted the building has been completed and is fully paid for.

“The building behind me is finished and completely paid for,” she said.

Lowell-Whaley thanked the countless volunteers, donors and community members who supported the project over the years.

“We thank everyone who has ever volunteered or donated money or time for this shelter and hope you all know how much we need and appreciate you,” she said, becoming emotional.

Following her remarks, Lowell-Whaley officially opened the facility.

“Without further ado, the animal shelter is open,” she said before the ribbon was cut.

The shelter fulfills a vision first championed by founder Eileen Rohrer, whose efforts launched a years-long campaign to establish a permanent shelter facility in Carroll County.

“I think it is important to recognize none of this would have happened without Eileen Rohrer,” said Rita Travis, marketing director.

Carroll County Animal Protection League President Marci McLaughlin said the opening represents an important milestone for both local residents and the animals the organization serves.

“It’s very exciting,” McLaughlin said. “It’s been a long, long time coming for Carroll County. The residents and the animals all need this shelter.”

McLaughlin credited generations of volunteers, directors and donors for helping bring the project to completion.

“There’s no way any of this could have happened without all the donations and all the volunteers who have come before us over 19 years,” McLaughlin said. “There have been so many different directors and volunteers and donors that made this dream come true.”

The shelter currently operates with the help of more than 50 volunteers who assist with animal care and daily operations. McLaughlin said the organization hopes to eventually hire a shelter manager and kennel staff, but for now the facility will be volunteer operated.

Community members interested in helping are encouraged to apply as volunteers.

“We have a great crew of directors working together and very good volunteers already to come in and help us run it,” McLaughlin said.

The organization has also established partnerships to provide veterinary care for animals housed at the shelter.

According to McLaughlin, Carrollton Animal Hospital will visit the shelter every Wednesday to perform examinations, administer vaccinations and provide microchipping services. The shelter will also work with regional low-cost spay and neuter providers, including AlterClinic and another clinic based in East Liverpool.

Following the ribbon cutting, visitors toured the new facility, viewing dog kennels, cat rooms and support areas. Many attendees commented on the cleanliness of the building and expressed excitement about finally seeing the long-awaited shelter open its doors.

For Carroll County Animal Protection League volunteers and supporters, the grand opening represented not only the completion of a building, but the realization of a dream nearly two decades in the making.